Written by Menswear Style in Tips & Advice on the 5th October 2021

Cashmere is one of the most luxurious fabrics in the world and is highly sought after by people who want to enjoy clothes and accessories that feel fantastic. If you are new to buying cashmere, then there are some things that you will need to consider before handing over your money, and we have shared them here so that you can buy with confidence. Take a look at our six pieces of advice and find out more about this amazing wool.

What is Cashmere Made From? 

You may know that cashmere is a type of wool, but it does not come from sheep, it actually comes from cashmere goats. The cashmere fibre is taken from the undercoat of the goats and then turned into the wool that we all know and love. 

Cashmere goats mainly live in China and Mongolia and have survived the frequent temperature changes by growing a double fleece. The top coat of the two works to provide a waterproof layer, and the undercoat works to keep the animal warm without overheating them when the warmer weather comes. As the undercoat is protected so well, it creates the finest fleece you can imagine, which is then turned into yarn, ready to be used in creating clothing and accessories.

Our Cashmere Buyer’s Guide 

All products come with different gradings, and if you are keen to invest in cashmere, you will probably want to get the very best that money can buy. Take a look at the following six considerations to help you get what you want: 

1 – Read the Label 

The first thing you should do when you decide to buy cashmere is to check the label on the garment. The reason for this is because the Wool Labelling Act is a law that states that an item can only be given a cashmere label if it is one hundred percent cashmere. Not only does this help you to avoid products that are not made from the highest standards, but it also helps you to understand the price tag when you find a genuine item. 

The label on the item will also give you clear instructions on how to care for your cashmere – helping you to get the most from your purchase and ensure the longest possible life for your item. 

2 – Find a Trustworthy Supplier 

If a deal looks too good to be true, then it probably is, and this extends to the purchase of cashmere, with many fake items being sold through cheaper suppliers. Avoid being the victim of this type of scam by making your purchase through a reputable company. 

There are many well-known and trustworthy brands that sell genuine cashmere that is worth every penny – take the time to find one of them before you buy anything.

3 – Plan for the Years to Come 

Cashmere is not a throwaway purchase, and you will want to get the most from it for many years to come. One of the best ways to do that is to think about the colour options available. If you are buying an item of cashmere clothing, then think about natural colours that won't show up every mark. 

If you are purchasing cashmere accessories like blankets and throws, then think about a colour that will work with many different colour schemes so that it can become a feature piece in your home. Taking the time to carefully choose your colour will allow you to mix and match for many years so that you get the most from your purchase. We would recommend choosing a high GSM blanket similar to the 350gsm blanket from atkinsonblankets.co.uk. 

4 – Make Sure You Know How to Care for it 

Cashmere is an investment that needs a lot of care, and so you will need to consider if you have the time to look after it as well as the knowledge. Cashmere should never be hung up and is best kept in an airtight storage bag to avoid problems like moths or discolouration. 

When it comes to washing cashmere, there are some options that may be dry-cleanable, but the majority of cashmere needs to be gently hand washed and dried flat so that it retains its original shape. When you wash your cashmere, make sure you use a non-biological fabric cleaner and never wring the water out as this will damage it – instead, press the item on a towel so that the water gets absorbed. 

5 – Keep it at its Best 

The great thing about cashmere is that it is incredibly soft and will feel great on your skin, whether you are wearing it or are cuddled up under it. The interesting thing about cashmere is that it softens even more with use, giving you something to really look forward to! 

Keeping your cashmere in great condition will lengthen its lifespan and improve its look so that you can wear and enjoy it anywhere you go. To do this, invest in a cashmere comb from johnstonsoflelgin.com that can be used to remove any pile build-ups.

6 – Opt for the Warmest Option 

If you are looking for a blanket or item of clothing that you can use all year round, then you will want to find a 2-ply cashmere option. This means that the cashmere yarn has been twisted before it has been knitted. 

2-ply is the recommended option because it is warmer to wear and offers greater durability as well as extra softness – keeping you in cashmere for years to come. 2-ply cashmere is also better to pack when you are heading out on a trip and offers crease resistance without taking up too much room in your luggage. 

Expensive but Enjoyable 

If you are keen on getting cashmere but have avoided it due to the price tag, then now is the time to treat yourself! Cashmere may be an expensive outlay, but when you take the time to follow our advice and care for your items appropriately, then you can expect it to last for many years to come. We can't think of any other material that we would love more!

Have you invested in any cashmere men's fashion garments? #fashion

— Menswear Style (@MenswearStyle) October 5, 2021

In this Cashmere Buyer’s Guide we look into What is Cashmere Made From and discuss 6 Things to Consider When Buying Cashmere Menswear.