Introduction to Cashmere
For several centuries, the finest fabrics were only worn by a privileged crowd, such as royalty. Although now available to all, cashmere is still seen as a rich and luxurious fabric. Why is cashmere so expensive?
Cashmere is actually a wool that is made from the Kashmir goats which are found in the highlands of Asia. They are mostly found in China, Tibet, India and Mongolia. The goats have a period of molting which is when the wool is collected. The finest quality cashmere wool is obtained from the throat and belly areas. Since cashmere wool is so soft and luxurious, it has become one of the most expensive fabrics in the world. The natural color of cashmere are shades of brown, white, and gray. This is why a cashmere jumper is so beautiful – not only does it keep you warm but but it feels so lovely to the touch.
Cashmere has limited availability because it take four years for the goats to grow enough hair for one single jumper! Cashmere is also expensive because of its ability to adjust easily to rises and falls in the humidity level.
How to Buy a Cashmere Jumper
Cashmere jumpers are one of the most beautiful pieces of clothing you can own. If you have decided to buy a cashmere jumper then no doubt you want to make sure you get a 100% cashmere jumper or a blend with silk. You will need to feel confident that you are getting a real cashmere jumper if you are spending a lot of money. There are fake cashmere jumpers out there so you need to check. One easy test is to pull the jumper by its sides and see if it goes back to the original shape. High quality cashmere will go back to the shape it was originally in. Another recommendation is to buy a cashmere jumper that has a tight weave instead of a looser knit.
You should also shop at reputable shops that carry cashmere goods, like Pure Collection. They use 100% sustainable cashmere. Then you won’t have to worry if it is truly a cashmere item.
How to Take Care of Your Cashmere Jumper
The delicate nature of cashmere requires special laundering procedures. You will want your new cashmere jumper to last a long time so take care of it. It doesn’t need to be washed often, perhaps after every 6 or 7 normal wearings is fine. You should wash it in cool or lukewarm water using a special wool or cashmere detergent. You should not use regular laundry soap. After you have washed it, lay it out flat on a towel and roll it up like a rolling pin to get the water out. Do not wring or twist the jumper! Now allow the cashmere jumper to dry overnight, preferably on a drying rack – never in the dryer. For best results, wash inside out and in a mesh bag. Do not dry clean cashmere – it does not respond well.
To store your cashmere jumper, make sure it is clean so as not to attract moths. Keep it inside a clothing storage bag to protect it from moisture and insects.
While you wear your cashmere jumper, take care not to spray perfume on it and treat any stains right away,
If you follow this advice, you can enjoy your investment in a beautiful cashmere jumper for a lifetime. Cashmere is durable and will last if you take care of it.