business

Connect to Peru with Annie Hurlbut

By Charlene Louis

September 2008

Photo: Annie Hurlbut, Owner and found of Peruvian Connection

When you think of Peru, usually the first things many think of are colorful parkas and hundred of alpacas roaming the land. Yet Annie Hurlbut, Owner and co-founder of Peruvian Connection, saw so much more! From visiting market places and seeing the women of Peru, Annie was inspired by the ponchos and the textiles that she began to collect, and she learned all that she could about alpaca-made fabrics. From opening her first store in Kansas City and distributing her collected Peruvian wear to local boutiques, there was soon a following and a demand for luscious sweaters and hand-knitted wears.

With the opening of her 5th store, located at 950 F Street, NW, Washington, D.C., shoppers are sure to be surprised to see more than just sweaters! This will be Annie’s first full-line retail store offering not only apparel and accessories, but tabletop and luxury home categories. 

What made you chose to open a Peruvian connection in the heart of DC?

“There is such a strong following in D.C. With its historic roots, being an international hub, and its beautiful architecture, it made the most sense.”

With D.C. cross-cultural and a sometimes eccentric atmosphere, and Peruvian Connection’s old-world blending of Peruvian style with modern trends, it is clear that shoppers will love and feel at home with what they have to offer.

I know that after visiting Peru in the 1970’s you were extremely inspired. How does their style influence your clothes and keep up with today’s trends?

“We tend to do our own thing. When it comes to color trends or skirt lengths, then yes, we will follow the trends, but really we design what we like.”

After looking over Peruvian Connection’s fall line, it is clear that comfort and style is a key element to their design. With detailed knits and stylish colors, Peruvian Connection is definitely trying to make women feel relaxed yet stylish. Men, don’t fret! There is plenty in store for you also. From sweaters to outerwear, the men’s collection is one that is classic, yet just as comfortable as the female line. Every piece is completely original and most are crafted exclusively for Peruvian Connection. Their in-house studio makes everything from the custom dyes to the patterns that the materials are woven into. These designs are then sent to the Andean artisans, (craftswomen in Peru) who use their traditional hands at constructing these original designs from native fibers of alpaca and fine pima cotton.

I notice that you give back to the Peruvian people. Why is this so important?

“We [Peruvian Connection & Annie Hurlbut] owe so much to Peru. This is a core aspect of our company.”

Peruvian Connection does not own any of the production facilities that are located in Peru. By being a fair-trade organization, Peruvian Connection has provided jobs and opportunity for the artisans. Many of the artisans that Peruvian Connection works with are some of the highest paid professionals in their line of work and Annie prides her company on this! Not only does Annie support local business, she also helps in supporting many of the local orphanages and programs supporting children with learning disabilities. With Peruvian Connection’s support of micro-finance organizations for women, you know your purchase will directly support the Peruvian people whom are passionately making your clothes.

Would you ever consider owning (or do you own) an alpaca farm?

“No! [Said with a giggle]I like them to stay down there. Stay native to their land.”

Alpaca fiber is one of the softest and most luxurious materials known to man. With its velvety texture and insulating qualities, it has been known to be stronger and warmer than many wool fibers. In addition to Alpaca fur, Vicuña fleece and Peruvian Pima cotton are some of the other exceptional fabrics used by Peruvian Connection. Annie is adamant on making sure that their clothing and home décor items are made from only the highest grade available.

What should we be expecting to see in this location? Anything different from your other stores?

“Being that this is our first full line flagship store, there will be more than the core collection.”

Not only will Peruvian Connection be offering their men’s and women’s clothing lines, they will also be providing their handbag collections, bedding, home décor items, rugs and much more! Many of these items are usually available via catalog, internet, and if you’re lucky, their other store locations. Being one of the largest store locations, it is clear that the Washington, D.C. location will be a favorite to the many natives and visitors of our great city!

For more information about Peruvian Connection, visit their website www.peruvianconnection.com or email dc@peruvianconnection.com

Peruvian Connection: 950 F Street NW,  Washington, DC 20004

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