My second job (assuming it’s possible to assign a hierarchy to my various professions, which I actually pursue with and for passion) is that of an academic instructor. I have been teaching for 15 years in the fields of fashion and design. Thanks to this activity, I have the opportunity to see hundreds of students from all over the world every year. One of the reasons I teach is that it allows me to continue studying, to broaden the subjects of my study, and to stay in touch with new generations, learning their thoughts and language.
And that’s how I met Miluska Novoa a few years ago. I had the pleasure of having her as a student at the Istituto Europeo di Design in Milan, and I followed her through several courses, including the one where students present their project at the final exam. In Miluska’s case, this project coincided with what she wanted to pursue afterwards. A few days ago, she contacted me to show me what she has accomplished so far. Since her work involves high-quality sustainable fashion, I decided to interview her.
Interview to the founder of Disoal
1.What types of designs does Disoal offer in their alpaca products?
Disoal offers a compelling range of designs in their alpaca products, blending contemporary aesthetics with a commitment to sustainability. Embracing the artisanal expertise of Peruvian craftsmen, Disoal’s collections are a testament to timeless elegance and enduring simplicity. Their offerings include unique layers of pure baby alpaca capes, scarves, and shawls.
Each piece not only celebrates traditional techniques but also embodies a philosophy of sustainable fashion, where longevity and adaptability redefine seasonal trends. Disoal invites its clientele to perceive fashion through a contemporary lens, encouraging a reevaluation of how garments can evolve over time, seamlessly adapting to individual style and form.
2. How does Disoal demonstrate its commitment to sustainability and ethics?
Disoal’s commitment to sustainability and ethics is underscored by several key initiatives. We work closely with HILOS ROJOS, a local NGO in Peru dedicated to supporting disadvantaged communities. Programs such as Punto Rojo empower women through artisan craft training, fostering financial independence and aiding those vulnerable to situations like domestic violence.
At Disoal, we deeply value local craftsmanship and animal welfare. Our alpaca fibers are meticulously hand-produced by artisans in Peru’s highest-altitude regions like Cuzco and Pacomarca. These artisans raise and care for alpacas in free-range conditions, ensuring proper nutrition while respecting animal welfare and the environment.
A crucial part of our artisanal process is the technique used to obtain baby alpaca fibers. Peruvian artisans meticulously separate each fiber by hand, selecting only the finest and softest fibers known as baby alpaca. This approach guarantees the exceptional quality of our products and promotes sustainable practices by minimizing waste and maximizing the responsible use of natural resources.
Furthermore, we have implemented a sustainable made-to-order system, producing only the garments that have been requested, which minimizes waste. Each piece is cut, sewn, and finished by hand in our workshop within two weeks of order acceptance. We also adopt a zero-waste design methodology, revaluing raw materials and minimizing environmental impact by avoiding textile waste. Disoal optimizes its production chain by cutting, manufacturing, and shipping all garments from the same workshop.
Durability is inherent in alpaca fiber, known for its timeless appeal and longevity. Our alpaca garments are designed to transcend trends, offering timeless elegance that withstands the test of time. With proper care, these pieces can be cherished and worn for a lifetime, reflecting their extended lifecycle.
Responsible production is fundamental to us. We meticulously track the traceability of our garments from design to the end of their life cycle, ensuring fair trade conditions at every stage. To further reduce our environmental impact, we employ sustainable alternatives throughout our production processes.
At Disoal, we are dedicated not only to the quality and durability of our alpaca products but also to preserving traditional artisan techniques and supporting local communities. Every purchase at Disoal directly contributes to these initiatives through donations to HILOS ROJOS, reinforcing our commitment to a fairer and more sustainable world.
From Peru with love
3. What elements does Disoal use to showcase Peruvian culture in their products?
Disoal showcases Peruvian culture in its products by incorporating traditional techniques and materials that highlight Peru’s rich heritage, particularly through the use of Peruvian alpaca fibers. The craftsmanship involved in creating each piece reflects the deep cultural history of the Andean region, where artisans employ time-honored methods passed down through generations.
Our flagship product is the alpaca poncho, a traditional element of Peruvian culture that we have adapted to contemporary fashion in a refined and sophisticated manner, using the highest quality fibers. Our ponchos are meticulously designed and crafted to provide a unique experience, not only in terms of style and elegance but also through our commitment to sustainability.
By blending the rich cultural heritage of Peru with modern design aesthetics, Disoal creates pieces that honor tradition while appealing to today’s discerning customers. The result is a collection that not only looks beautiful but also tells a story of cultural pride, sustainability, and ethical craftsmanship.
4. What organization does Disoal collaborate with to support Peruvian artisans?
Disoal collaborates with Hilos Rojos, a Peruvian NGO dedicated to supporting and empowering local artisans. Hilos Rojos offers training programs and improves working conditions, helping artisans enhance their skills and achieve financial independence. This collaboration ensures that Disoal’s products are not only sustainable but also ethically produced, making a direct positive impact on the communities involved. Additionally, a percentage of our sales directly supports these communities, further reinforcing our commitment to social responsibility and ethical practices. For more detailed information about the NGO and their initiatives, you can visit our website where we provide an in-depth overview of Hilos Rojos and a link to their official page www.disoalworl.com .
5. How are alpaca fibers extracted and processed by Peruvian artisans according to Disoal?
Alpaca fibers are extracted and processed sustainably by Peruvian artisans through an annual shearing process during the summer, ensuring the animals’ comfort. The fibers are then manually separated and classified by quality and texture. Using traditional techniques, the artisans spin the fibers to maintain high standards of quality. This process supports local communities, respects the environment, and preserves the welfare of the alpacas. These practices ensure that the production of our high-quality alpaca garments is both ethical and sustainable, aligning with our commitment to responsible fashion.
6. What are the key qualities of alpaca fiber mentioned in the text?
The key qualities of alpaca fiber include its exceptional durability and softness, making it suitable for long-lasting garments. It is hypoallergenic, ensuring compatibility with all skin types. The fiber’s thermoregulatory properties help keep the body warm in cold climates and cool in warm climates. Additionally, alpaca fiber is water-resistant and does not absorb moisture, making it versatile for various weather conditions. It is naturally resistant to dirt, stains, and odors, reducing the need for frequent washing and making it easy to maintain.
7. How does Disoal ensure the high quality of their most exclusive products?
Disoal ensures the excellence of its exclusive products through a meticulous and extended process, guided by an unwavering commitment to quality and environmental respect. We take pride in our prestigious certifications such as the Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS), highlighting our dedication to ecological and social responsibility in the textile industry. Our alpaca garments and accessories proudly bear the 100% certified organic label, ensuring each item is crafted from the finest Peruvian alpaca, backed by origin certificates.
At Disoal, every aspect of our production process is crafted to deliver a unique and enduring experience for our customers. Our emphasis on quality, ethics, and innovation converges to create pieces that transcend fleeting trends, defining a timeless and responsible style. You can view our certifications in detail on our website where we provide comprehensive information about our commitment to excellence and sustainability.
8. What is Disoal’s flagship product and how is it adapted to contemporary fashion?
Disoal’s flagship product is the alpaca poncho (cape), a traditional element of Peruvian culture that we have elegantly and timelessly adapted to contemporary fashion. Utilizing the most valuable fiber in Peru, our alpaca capes embody both heritage and modern sophistication. Each cape is meticulously designed and crafted to provide a unique experience, distinguished by its refined style, elegance, and commitment to sustainability.
For instance, our Puno cape is adorned with baby alpaca and royal alpaca fur around the edges, making it incredibly soft to the touch and exceptionally elegant. The high value of this fur lies in its fineness and rarity, as it comes from the first fleece of the alpaca, making it the most cherished and luxurious. This first shearing produces the finest and most valuable fibers, ensuring a superior quality that is both durable and exquisitely soft.
Another example is our Pisac cape, which features fur around the entire border, adding to its luxurious feel and unique design. All our capes come in natural alpaca colors, such as various shades of brown, achieved through traditional natural dyeing techniques. This natural approach not only enhances the beauty of each piece but also aligns with our commitment to sustainable and ethical fashion.
(interview by Viviana Musumeci, founder at Gaiazoe.life)
