All You Need to Know About Cashmere...
Cashmere is the type of wool that comes from the undercoat of the cashmere goat, which is a bread that originated in the Himalayan region of Tibet and Ladakh. It has been prised for its softness, warmth, and durability for centuries. It was imported by traders and imitated by local manufacturers in Europe since the 19th century, and is still one of the most luxurious and expensive fabrics in the fashion industry even till today. The finest cashmere comes from China and Mongolia, where the goats have adapted to harsh Winters and produce long and thin fibers.
Cashmere clothing is valued for its lightness, warmth, softness, and breathability, however it also requires careful handling and maintenance to preserve its appearance and performance. Many would wonder the difference between cashmere and wool, both materials are natural fibers that come from animals, but they have some distinct features that make them suitable for different purposes...
Cashmere:
Softer, lighter, and finer. It has a smooth and silky texture that feels good on the skin.
Excellent insulating properties that can keep people warm even under extremely low temperatures.
More expensive due to the limited amount of fiber that comes from the specific breed of goat.
Requires more careful steps for processing and handling. Needs to be combed regularly to remove any pilling or fuzziness that may occur overtime.
Wool:
Coarser and heavier. It may feel scratchy or itchy on some people.
More durable and resistant to pilling.
Warm, but may not be as comfortable or breathable as cashmere.
Can be machine washed in cold water and hung dry, but may shrink or lose its shape if exposed to high heat or agitation.
One of the reasons of the expensiveness is the rarity of cashmere goats. Cashmere goats make up only 0.05% of the world's goat population, and they can only produce a limited amount of cashmere per year.
The labor-intensive production is also a key factor of the on-going price. Cashmere is harvested by hand once a year, usually in the spring when the goats shed their winter coat. The cashmere fibers have to be separated from the coarser guard hairs by combing or shearing, which is a time consuming and delicate task. The cashmere fibers then have to be washed, sorted, spun, dyed, and woven into fabric or garments.
Cashmere is a wonderful material that can enhance your wardrobe and lifestyle. It is worthy of its high price tag due to the its advantages over other types of wool or synthetic fibers. Its luxury and softness is more than just addictive... ...
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