AIKUSS EMILIA: so soft and colorful that you almost forget it's practical too
Well, here’s another one for you. The colored wool cardigan EMILIA from AIKUSS is soft, fluffy, warm, and so cheerful that it immediately makes your day better. And yes, that sounds exaggerated, but put this cardigan on and try to stay grumpy. That's going to be tough.
EMILIA is made of 89% pure alpaca and 11% polyamide. This makes the cardigan feel wonderfully soft and light, while the knit still has just that bit of extra strength. The colors are truly joy-inducing. We have her in two combinations: a blue-green variant with fresh, deep tones and a pink-orange variant that almost cries out: bring on those gray days, I'll take care of the color.
AIKUSS is a new brand at Natur-el and we are rather proud of it. We discovered it at the very last minute during our buying trip, in a small corner, from an incredibly lovely woman from Peru who has started her own label. AIKUSS is woman-owned, inspired by the landscapes and rich textile tradition of Peru, and we are her first customer in the Netherlands. In fact, Natur-el is the only store in the Netherlands that sells AIKUSS. How special is that?
Why you want this cardigan
EMILIA is one of those cardigans that immediately completes your outfit. You don't need to overthink it. Simple black trousers, jeans, a subtle skirt, or a solid-colored dress underneath and you're good to go. The cardigan itself does all the work. Not in a flashy way, but with character. And we love that.
The fabric is soooo fluffy soft. Truly a cuddly cardigan that you see customers in the store automatically reaching out to touch. Alpaca has that beautiful combination of warmth and lightness. It is cozy without becoming heavy, which is exactly why it is easy to wear both indoors and outdoors.
Fit & styling
The AIKUSS EMILIA cardigan is available in two sizes: S/M and L/XL. The style is relatively loose, so you don't need to worry about it being tight. The fit is relaxed and comfortable, with a nice woolly look. Doubting between sizes? Then you can usually choose based on your preference: if you want to wear it a bit more compact, take the smaller size. If you want that cozy, loose cardigan feel, then choose the larger size.
The button closure makes EMILIA very easy to wear. Buttoned up, it’s almost a sweater; worn open, it’s a cardigan you can just throw over anything. And extra nice: we also have the same model as a sweater. So if you are in love with the colors but prefer not to wear a cardigan, you can also take a look at the sweater.
Material & care
EMILIA is made of 89% pure alpaca and 11% polyamide. Alpaca is a beautiful natural material: warm, soft, light, and often less itchy than regular wool. The small addition of polyamide helps to make the knit stronger so that you can enjoy this fluffy piece of art for longer.
And good news: you hardly ever need to wash this cardigan. In fact, preferably not at all. Alpaca and wool have natural self-cleaning properties. Often, airing it out outside is enough. Hang the cardigan outside or by an open window for a night, and it will feel fresh again. That’s better for your cardigan, better for the environment, and frankly, just a lot less hassle.
Does EMILIA need to be washed after all? Then do it very carefully. Use a wool detergent like Lanalicious, wash cold or on a wool wash cycle, and always let the cardigan dry flat. Do not wring, do not tumble dry, and do not hang it on a hanger, as that can stretch the shape.
Indispensable: the Gleener for your fluffy wool cardigan
Order this cardigan together with the matching Gleener to safely remove any pilling. Pilling is normal with wool, alpaca, and other soft natural fibers. It doesn't mean your cardigan is poor quality, but rather that you are dealing with a truly natural and fluffy material. Don't pick at it with your fingers, because that pulls the fibers loose. With the Gleener, you remove pills gently, and your cardigan stays looking much better. Order your Gleener here.
Sustainable & fair
AIKUSS works with respect for nature, tradition, and craftsmanship. The collection is inspired by Peru, with colorful patterns and knits that provide warmth with meaning. EMILIA is 100% fair trade and you can feel that—not literally, of course, but in the story behind the cardigan.
What we think is so beautiful about it: with AIKUSS, we are supporting a female maker who is bringing her own brand into the world. No mass production, no interchangeable cardigan you see everywhere, but a special garment with a story. Exclusive to Natur-el in the Netherlands. That makes us very, very happy.
How do you wear EMILIA?
1. With black: wear the pink-orange variant over black trousers or a skirt. The colors will pop beautifully without your outfit becoming too busy.
2. Casual with jeans: the blue-green variant is amazing with denim. Simple shirt underneath, nice shoes, and you're set.
3. Over a dress: wear EMILIA open over a simple dress. It immediately adds warmth, color, and a little bit of Peruvian magic to your outfit.
Don't buy if...
Are you looking for a thin, smooth, and very tight cardigan that is meant to be mostly invisible? Then EMILIA is probably not the cardigan for you. This cardigan is fluffy, colorful, and clearly present. But do you love soft alpaca, special colors, and clothing with a story? Then this could easily become your new favorite cardigan.
Personal advice, or doubts about the size?
Are you hesitating between S/M and L/XL or do you want to know which color suits you best? Call us during opening hours at 010-7954177 or email klantenservice@natur-el.nl. Our "happiness-makers" are happy to help you.
Sustainable shopping in Rotterdam
Do you want to feel and try on EMILIA in person? We completely understand, because you really want to touch this one. In our store at Zwaanshals 376 in Rotterdam, you can take your time browsing the collection. We are open from Tuesday to Saturday from 10:00 to 17:30.
Frequently asked questions about the AIKUSS EMILIA cardigan
How does the AIKUSS EMILIA cardigan fit?
EMILIA fits relatively loose. The cardigan is available in S/M and L/XL and has a relaxed fit. If in doubt, choose the smaller size for something more compact and the larger size for extra loose and cozy.
What material is EMILIA made of?
The cardigan is made of 89% pure alpaca and 11% polyamide. Alpaca provides softness, warmth, and a light feel. The polyamide gives the knit extra strength.
Is the AIKUSS EMILIA cardigan fair trade?
Yes, EMILIA is 100% fair trade. AIKUSS works with a focus on craftsmanship, nature, and the Peruvian textile tradition.
Do I have to wash this alpaca cardigan?
Preferably as little as possible. Alpaca naturally has self-cleaning properties. Often, airing it out is enough. Wash only when absolutely necessary, using wool detergent, and let it dry flat.
Is AIKUSS exclusively available at Natur-el?
Yes, Natur-el is the first customer of AIKUSS in the Netherlands and currently the only store in the Netherlands that sells this special brand.
Is there also a sweater version of this model?
Yes, we also have the same model as a sweater. Ideal if you are in love with the colors and the alpaca but prefer not to wear a cardigan.
