Founded on the principles of ecological consciousness and sustainable fashion, Ahblo Luxury Knitwear represents a harmonious blend of luxury and environmental stewardship. Established by Raquel Grebler Quesne, Ahblo has emerged as a thought leader in the West Coast lifestyle, dedicated to redefining the fashion industry through ethically sourced materials and a deep connection to nature.
With a vision to make luxury knitwear accessible and environmentally responsible, Ahblo launched its first collection using ethically sourced baby alpaca wool. This premium material not only ensures unparalleled comfort and quality but also aligns with Ahblo’s commitment to ethical consumption and environmental preservation. Our brand philosophy stems from the belief that luxury should be a right for everyone, not a privilege, and that fashion can coexist with conscious consumption.
Ahblo is more than just a fashion brand; it is a movement that bridges the gap between environmentalism and urban lifestyle. Our mission is to offer products that embody the best of both worlds—urban sophistication and natural simplicity. We aim to inspire our customers to embrace a lifestyle that enjoys the vibrancy of urban life while staying rooted in nature. By promoting high-quality, sustainable fashion, we encourage our community to buy less and buy better.
Our key message is simple: “Get close to nature by buying less and buying quality.” We believe that the true essence of sustainability lies in conscious consumption and a deep connection to nature. While we do not focus overtly on sustainability messaging, we invite our audience to discover the ethical and sustainable practices that underpin our brand through our website.
Tell us about your background and how you got into fashion design.
I was fortunate to study economics in Switzerland and philosophy at La Sorbonne in Paris. Living across Europe, Asia, and South America not only enriched my worldview but also ignited my passion for fashion design. These experiences helped me see the potential for integrating sustainability with luxury fashion, leading me to establish Ahblo.
What is the inspiration behind Ahblo?
Ahblo is inspired by a vision to marry luxury with sustainability, crafting pieces that are inherently versatile and adapted to the west coast lifestyle—a lifestyle prevalent along the Pacific Ocean. Our garments are designed to be multifunctional: laidback and cozy enough for a beach day yet chic and stylish for an evening dinner. This versatility not only contributes to the sustainability of each garment by extending its use and relevance but also embodies the dynamic, casual yet sophisticated spirit of the west coast. Our goal is to offer comfort, elegance, and environmental mindfulness in every piece, reflecting a life where balance and beauty go hand in hand.
What motivated you to choose alpaca wool to work with, and how did you discover its unique qualities?
During the seven years I lived in Chile, I had the opportunity to visit communities in the Andes across Chile, Peru, Argentina, and Bolivia. These experiences introduced me to alpaca wool and its remarkable properties. Alpaca wool is not only incredibly soft and warm but also lightweight, hypoallergenic, and highly durable. Its thermal properties allow for breathability in warmer climates and insulation in colder environments, making it versatile for any season. Additionally, alpaca wool is water-resistant and retains dyes beautifully, giving richness to every color. Seeing firsthand the traditional methods these communities used to create garments from alpaca wool deeply inspired me. Motivated by the desire to support these artisans and promote sustainable practices, I chose alpaca wool as Ahblo’s cornerstone, aiming to showcase its exceptional qualities while contributing positively to the environment and local economies.
Tell us about the sustainability practices you are using.
At Ahblo, sustainability is at the core of every decision we make. We prioritize the ethical sourcing of alpaca fibers, supporting the communities that rear these animals while ensuring that every step of our supply chain respects both ecological balance and social equity. Alpaca wool itself is a cornerstone of our sustainability efforts, offering a multitude of environmental benefits. It is a naturally sustainable fiber, requiring less water and feeding than cashmere goats, which significantly reduces its ecological footprint. Additionally, alpacas graze gently, reducing soil erosion and promoting healthier pastureland. Unlike cashmere, alpaca wool does not require harsh chemical processing, maintaining its natural softness and hypoallergenic properties through eco-friendly means. These sustainability properties of alpaca wool have greatly influenced our choice to feature this natural fabric prominently in our collections, aiming for a production process that minimizes environmental impact and maximizes product longevity and ethical integrity.
What has been the most rewarding aspect of creating and growing the Ahblo brand?
The most rewarding aspect of creating and growing the Ahblo brand has been witnessing the positive impact on both our customers and the communities involved in our production process. One of our greatest joys is seeing our loyal customers fall in love with their Ahblo pieces, wearing them over and over again, and styling them in various ways that integrate seamlessly into their identities. We especially cherish seeing our garments shared among partners and family members, embracing a truly communal spirit of fashion. Our hope is that these beloved pieces will not only serve their immediate wearers but will also be cherished and passed down to future generations, underscoring the long-term use and timeless quality of each garment. Knowing that Ahblo knitwear promotes a sustainable and ethical fashion industry, through both its production and its enduring presence in our customers’ lives, is profoundly fulfilling.
