AIKUSS EMILIA: so soft and colorful you’ll almost forget it’s also practical
Well, here we go again. The colored wool cardigan EMILIA by AIKUSS is soft, fluffy, warm, and so cheerful that it immediately makes your day better. And yes, that sounds like an exaggeration, but put this cardigan on and try to stay grumpy. It's going to be difficult.
EMILIA is made of 89% pure alpaca and 11% polyamide. This makes the cardigan feel wonderfully soft and light, yet gives the knit just that little bit of extra strength. The colors are truly joyful. We have it in two combinations: a blue-green version with fresh, deep tones and a pink-orange version that almost shouts: bring on those gray days, I’ll provide the color.
AIKUSS is a new brand at Natur-el and we are quite proud of it. We discovered it at the very last moment during our buying trip, tucked away in a small corner, from a lovely woman from Peru who started her own label. AIKUSS is woman-owned, inspired by the landscapes and rich textile tradition of Peru, and we are her first client 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 that type of cardigan that immediately completes your outfit. You don’t have to overthink it. Simple black trousers, jeans, a subtle skirt, or a solid-colored dress underneath and you're good to go. The cardigan does enough on its own. Not in a flashy way, but with character. And we love that.
The fabric is soooo fluffy and soft. It’s truly the kind of touchable cardigan that you see customers in the store automatically reaching out to feel. Alpaca has that beautiful combination of warmth and lightness. It’s cozy without becoming heavy, which makes it easy to wear both indoors and outdoors.
Fit & styling
The AIKUSS EMILIA cardigan comes in two sizes: S/M and L/XL. The model fits relatively loosely, so you don't have to worry about it being tight. The fit is relaxed and comfortable, with a nice woolly look. Doubting between sizes? You can usually choose by feel: if you want to wear it a bit more compactly, take the smaller size. If you want that cozy, roomy cardigan feel, 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 fun: we also have the same model as a sweater. So, if you’re 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 wonderful natural material: warm, soft, light, and often less itchy than regular wool. The small addition of polyamide helps to make the knit stronger, so you can enjoy this fluffy piece of art for longer.
And good news: you almost never have to wash this cardigan. In fact, you’d rather not. Alpaca and wool have natural self-cleaning properties. Often, simply airing it out 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 honestly, just a lot less hassle.
Does EMILIA need a wash after all? Do it very carefully. Use a wool detergent like Lanalicious, wash cold or on a wool cycle, and always let the cardigan dry flat. Do not wring it, do not put it in the dryer, 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 along 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 of 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 can remove pills gently and keep your cardigan 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. Exclusively at Natur-el in the Netherlands. That makes us very, very happy.
How to wear EMILIA?
1. With black: wear the pink-orange version with black trousers or a skirt. The colors will pop beautifully without making your outfit too busy.
2. Casual with jeans: the blue-green version is great with denim. A simple shirt underneath, nice shoes, and you're ready.
3. Over a dress: wear EMILIA open over a subtle dress. It immediately gives your outfit warmth, color, and a little bit of Peru magic.
Don't buy if...
Are you looking for a thin, smooth, and very tight cardigan that is meant to be invisible? Then EMILIA is probably not the cardigan for you. This cardigan is fluffy, colorful, and clearly present. But if 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 us at klantenservice@natur-el.nl. Our "happiness-makers" are happy to think along with you.
Sustainable shopping in Rotterdam
Do you want to feel and try on EMILIA in person? We completely understand, because this is something you just want to stroke. You can view the collection at your leisure in our store at Zwaanshals 376 in Rotterdam. We are open from Tuesday through 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 loosely. The cardigan is available in S/M and L/XL and has a relaxed fit. If in doubt, choose the smaller size for a slightly more compact fit and the larger size for extra roominess and coziness.
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 attention to craftsmanship, nature, and the Peruvian textile tradition.
Do I have to wash this alpaca cardigan?
Preferably as little as possible. Alpaca has natural self-cleaning properties. Often, airing it out is enough. Only wash if absolutely necessary, using wool detergent, and let the cardigan dry flat.
Is AIKUSS exclusively available at Natur-el?
Yes, Natur-el is the first client 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’ve fallen in love with the colors and the alpaca but prefer not to wear a cardigan.
