If you are looking for a fabric that is soft, warm, and luxurious, you might want to consider soft cashmere. Cashmere is a natural fibre that comes from the wool of the Changthangi or Himalayan goat, a breed that lives in the high-altitude regions of the Himalayas. Cashmere has been prized for centuries for its exquisite qualities and cultural significance. In this blog post, we will explore some of the secrets behind cashmere’s heavenly softness and how cashmere can make you feel good inside and out.
Cashmere is not just any wool. It is a very fine and delicate fibre that is obtained from the undercoat of the Changthangi goat. The undercoat grows during the harsh winter months to protect the goat from the extreme cold and wind. In the spring, when the weather warms up, the goat naturally sheds its undercoat, which is then collected by hand or by combing. Only about 150 grams of cashmere can be harvested from each goat per year, making it a rare and precious commodity.
The quality of cashmere depends on several factors, such as the fineness, length, colour, and purity of the fibre. The finer and longer the fibre, the softer and more durable the cashmere product will be. The colour of the fibre also affects its value, as lighter colours are more desirable and easier to dye. The purity of the fibre refers to how much it has been mixed with other types of wool or synthetic materials. The purest cashmere is labelled as 100% cashmere or pure cashmere.
Cashmere has many benefits that make it a superior choice for clothing and accessories. Here are some of them:
- Hypoallergenic Properties: Cashmere is a natural fibre that is gentle on the skin and does not cause allergic reactions or irritation. It is also resistant to dust mites, mould, and bacteria, making it a healthy choice for people with sensitive skin or allergies.
- Breathability and Skin Comfort: Cashmere has excellent thermal regulation properties, meaning it can adapt to different temperatures and humidity levels. It can keep you warm in the winter and cool in the summer, without making you sweat or feel uncomfortable. Cashmere also has a smooth and silky texture that feels soft and luxurious against the skin .
- Sensory Benefits: Cashmere is not only a pleasure to touch, but also to see and hear. Cashmere has a natural lustre that reflects light and enhances its colour. It also has a subtle sound that is soothing and relaxing. Wearing cashmere can stimulate your senses and make you feel calm and happy.
- Durability and Sustainability: Cashmere is a strong and resilient fibre that can last for a long time if properly cared for. It does not wrinkle or lose its shape easily, and it can resist pilling and fading. Cashmere is also a renewable and biodegradable resource that does not harm the environment or the animals that produce it. Cashmere production supports the livelihoods of many communities in the Himalayan region, where traditional methods of harvesting and processing are still practiced .
- Style and Versatility: Cashmere is a timeless and elegant fabric that can be worn for any occasion and season. It can be woven or knitted into various styles, such as sweaters, scarves, wraps, coats, dresses, and more. Cashmere can also be dyed into different colours, patterns, and prints to suit your personal taste. Cashmere products are easy to mix and match with other items in your wardrobe, creating a sophisticated and chic look.
As you can see, cashmere is more than just a fabric. It is a fabric that can make you feel good inside and out. Cashmere can provide you with warmth, comfort, beauty, health, durability, sustainability, style, and versatility. It can also connect you with a rich history and culture that spans across continents and generations. Cashmere is truly a heavenly fabric that deserves a place in your closet.