From Cuchillas to Cardigans

During their quest for the perfect sweater, fashion designers Tina Lutz and Marcia Patmos realized that they had a chance to lessen the environmental impact of their knitwear. For their 2007 Eco collection, they sourced Merino wool from sheep in Uruguay who are fed on native grasses, raised without antibiotics or hormones, and shorn as humanely as possible. The wool is processed without chemical dyes and is woven locally, both to save fuel and support the local economy. Tina explained to me how, instead of contracting with a factory, Lutz and Patmos employ a network of artisans to knit products from their own homes. The pieces are contemporary, with architectural construction and muted colors, but also reflect their South American origin. You can check out the collection, as well as sweater collaborations they've done with people like Yves Behar and Liv Tyler, at Lutz & Patmos.

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