As part of its international promotion efforts, Peru’s Commission for the Promotion of Export and Tourism (Promperu) presented the fashion work of French designer Arthur Chanton, winner of the Alpaca Awards, in order to boost the Peruvian alpaca fiber in the competitive fashion world market.
The contest was organized by Promperú'sTrade Office in Paris in partnership with the renowned fashion school ESMOD Paris.
The initiative aims to highlight alpaca fiber as a symbol of identity, innovation, and competitiveness within the global fashion industry. The winner receives a two-month residency in Peru, offering an immersive experience to learn about the alpaca value chain and collaborate with local companies in Arequipa, Ayacucho, and Cusco.
During his stay, Chanton developed a collection of over fifteen original designs that showcased the elegance and versatility of Peruvian alpaca, applied to modern, youthful, and urban-inspired silhouettes. The designer explored the fiber’s unique qualities —such as its natural temperature regulation and lightweight warmth— while experimenting with contemporary, casual styles.
Before joining the contest, Chanton admitted his knowledge of alpaca was limited, but after working in Peru, he said he was "deeply impressed by its potential and by the cultural richness that surrounds it."
In Ayacucho, he created streetwear pieces inspired by the region’s urban life and Andean landscapes. In Arequipa, he collaborated with local brands Alwa and Ama Alpaca, blending fiber, leather, and knit to produce six unisex looks. Finally, in Cusco, he drew inspiration from the region’s vibrant colors and traditions, which reshaped his approach to color and texture in contemporary design.
Upon returning to Paris, the young designer plans to incorporate what he learned in Peru into new creations, combining alpaca with materials such as nylon to explore its use in functional and sporty fashion.
Through the Alpaca Awards, Promperú —an agency under the Ministry of Foreign Trade and Tourism (MINCETUR)— reaffirms its commitment to internationalizing Peru’s textile industry while promoting sustainability and innovation across the Andean regions.
The initiative strengthens Peru’s global position as a leader in premium natural fibers and fosters collaboration between emerging designers and responsible fashion.