This hand-knit alpaca clothing social enterprise, is the result of Chicago native, Kate Robertson's time spent working in Peru as a Peace Corps Volunteer. Falling in love with the artisans and their amazing skills, Kate decided to start Mayu in hopes of continuing to support the Artisans as her time with the Peace Corps ended. Through Mayu, the Artisans have been given the opportunity to earn fair wages and become more independent while doing what they both enjoy and excel in - knitting. Mayu is a proud member of the Fair Trade Federation.

Mayu works directly with women who live in a rural community that sits high in the Andes Mountains. Mayu sells luxurious, hand-knit accessories made with the highest quality pure alpaca fiber.

We spent many years forming a business relationship, and more importantly, friendships with our Artisans. This business has been mutually beneficial. The Artisans have been taught valuable business skills and are earning fair wages, while still being able to be with their children. They have given us a stronger awareness of struggles women have in developing countries to provide for their families, thus feeding our passion to keep Mayu growing and growing.

"As an accessory addict and a Mayu devotee, I believe that once you wear a Mayu product, you will not want to take it off! Our items appeal to sophisticated, yet fun and informal individuals who are socially conscious and looking for one-of-a-kind pieces."

Enjoy!