Peruvian Chic

Virginia Blanca Arrisueño has that rare combination of genuine creativity, sharp technical skills and an entrepreneurial spirit, and it all comes together in her gorgeous knitwear. It’s not easy to reinvent such everyday items as a knit hat and scarf, but when Virginia makes them, her winter accessories exude spirit and originality that’s impossible to resist.

Virginia is a graduate of University of Maryland, where she specialized in fiber arts. Her vision for de*nada (which means “you're welcome” in Spanish) is to blend contemporary styles with ethnic elements inspired by the culture and traditions of her Peruvian heritage. Today she works from her home base in Washington, D.C., as well as alongside skilled artisans in Peru to create her distinctive collections.

de*nada’s bohemian-style slouch beanie is effortlessly chic, yet it’s also comfortable. We’ve yet to find anyone who doesn’t look great in it. For the full effect, you can pair it with de*nada’s fingerless gloves or arm warmers – they’re cozy and edgy at the same time. We’re also featuring gorgeous de*nada scarves, knit from the same polyamide mix (it’s super soft, warm, animal friendly and not itchy). Virginia’s continuous cowl neck warmers (in an open weave or a soft knit) can be worn around your neck or as a hood. Her spiral roped and hooded fringe scarves combine multiple strands or fringe for a dramatic statement that feels as great as it looks.

— Angella