Cashmere Care 101: Everything You Need to Know About the Fabric

Have you ever wondered why it is that cashmere is so revered? And why it’s been considered one of the most luxurious and durable fabrics in the world for centuries - and still is? In this in-depth overview, we’ll explore the everlasting appeal of cashmere - from its origin, production process, and distinctive characteristics. In doing this, we’ll explain why cashmere is the perfect choice to add to your wardrobe, and how to choose, care for, and style our cashmere products - whether it's your favourite cashmere sweater, a classic cashmere scarf, or an elegant cashmere wrap. 

What is cashmere?

Cashmere is a luxury fabric that comes from the soft fleecy underlayer of a cashmere goat. Native to the Kashmir region of India and able to withstand temperatures of up to -30 degrees Celsius, cashmere goats produce hair that is at once super-fine and incredibly insulating. Unlike sheep’s wool, cashmere offers unmatched softness and lightness. In addition, it’s a naturally breathable and thermo-regulating fibre, which means it helps to keep you at the perfect temperature. This means that when wearing a cashmere jumper you won’t overheat like you might when wearing one made from synthetic fibres. 

Why choose cashmere?

The earliest reference to cashmere dates back to the third century BC, and ever since it's been considered a luxury fabric that makes premium knitwear. But why exactly is cashmere considered the best? 

The ultimate comfort of cashmere

Have you ever found traditional sheep’s wool to feel itchy or uncomfortable? Then it could be that you have an allergy to lanolin, which is a waxy substance found on many types of animal wool. Luckily, cashmere is naturally hypo-allergenic and doesn’t contain any lanolin at all. This makes it a top choice if you have sensitive skin, and also means it's brilliant for baby clothing, blankets and accessories. Even if you don’t find other wools irritating, cashmere will still offer the best experience for you as it’s super soft and gentle on sensitive skin. At Rise & Fall, our cashmere manufacturer is OEKO-TEX certified, meaning that they don’t use harsh chemicals in the manufacturing process, giving yet another reason to choose it if you want to care for your skin. 

Lightweight for year-round wearability 

In comparison to other warm materials, cashmere is super lightweight. Due to the fine nature of the fibres (less than 19 microns, compared to human hair which is 60-90 microns), cashmere clothing is never bulky, meaning it tucks and drapes beautifully. At Rise & Fall we only use 100% Grade-A Mongolian Cashmere. To be ‘Grade-A’, cashmere has to be between 14-15.5 microns, making it the lightest cashmere available. ‘Grade-A’ also means that only the longest and finest fibres have been used, making this grade of cashmere the softest available. 

Cashmere’s lightweight nature, paired with its breathability, means you can wear it outside of winter. Even on warmer spring or autumn days, a cashmere jumper is the perfect layer as it will keep you the right temperature. You might be surprised, but cashmere can also be useful in the summer, too. For instance our oversized cashmere wrap makes a perfect alternative to a lightweight summer jacket.

Durable and resilient

When cared for correctly, cashmere can last for generations. It’s not unusual to hear about people wearing cashmere that has been handed down from their grandparents. At Rise & Fall, we strive to make cashmere that you’ll have for years to come, and that one day you’ll pass onto someone else. We are all about buying less, but buying better. 

Cashmere also lends itself to lasting a long time as it is very wrinkle and stretch resistant in comparison to other fibres. This means that it doesn't shrink when it's washed correctly, and it will retain its shape much better than wool over time.

A stylish choice

At Rise & Fall, we like to combine the timeless qualities of cashmere with modern, wearable styles. For women, we offer a range of accessories and clothing that will form the cornerstone of your wardrobe. A cashmere wrap or scarf will add the perfect layer of warmth and sophistication to any outfit, whilst our high neck jumper is a versatile knit that can be paired just as easily with silk separates as with your favourite denim jeans. We also offer cashmere in laid-back looks, too. Our half-zip jumper is a chunkier, oversized knit (cashmere blended with merino wool to give it more weight), which is perfect for those off-duty days. 

For men, the range at Rise & Fall is just as extensive. Whether you want an office-worthy cashmere crewneck or a relaxed cashmere sweatshirt, we have the style for you. If it’s versatility you’re after, then the cashmere quarter zip is the ultimate choice. You can wear it just as easily with your work trousers as you can with jeans.

Choosing the right cashmere product for you

As well as a range of styles, at Rise & Fall we also strive to offer cashmere in a range of colours so there is always something for everyone. If you prefer a classic choice, then we recommend going for a grey, navy, or black piece of cashmere. 

For women, we have also developed a selection of contemporary hues that add a real pop of colour to your look. Rising Blue is a vibrant, electric blue that looks great in our cashmere wool bandana. Classic Red is a timeless option that adds a touch of class to your look, whilst Bitter Chocolate is a warm, earthy neutral that simultaneously goes with everything and is a modern choice. 

Our men's range similarly boasts an exceptional array of colours. As well as the classics, rust is an orangey-red that adds some vibrancy without being overbearing. Forest Green is an excellent choice if you want to keep your outfit understated but want something a little more exciting than grey or black. 

Why Rise & Fall Cashmere?

Our cashmere and merino knitwear is made in Jiangsu, China. We use 100% A-grade cashmere only, which as we mentioned earlier is the best in the business when it comes to cashmere. Chosen for its extra fine (16 microns or less), extra-long fibres, it creates the softest and most beautiful knits. Our cashmere is made in a factory that is certified by the Good Cashmere Standard. This certification protects the welfare of the cashmere goats, the land they graze on, and their herdsmen. By buying cashmere from Rise & Fall, you can be assured that you’re buying some of the most sustainably sourced and produced cashmere going. 

Maintenance Tips for Cashmere Products

Once you’ve chosen your cashmere item, it’s time to make sure you care for it properly to ensure long-lasting durability. 

• When it comes to washing, cashmere should be hand-washed in cool water with a small amount of detergent. It should then be laid flat to air-dry. 
• To store, first fold your cashmere before placing it in your wardrobe. At Rise & Fall, we provide complimentary cotton zip bags with all of our cashmere products. This prevents dust, dirt and moths from reaching your cashmere while it's folded away. It’s important not to hang cashmere, as the hangers can cause it to stretch. 
• For more guidance on how to care for your cashmere, see our blog post on the topic.

In summary, cashmere stands as a timeless choice due to its luxurious, comfortable, versatile, and durable nature. Enhance both your wardrobe and lifestyle by choosing and caring for your cashmere products wisely. The beauty and warmth of cashmere can be enjoyed for years to come with the right attention and care.

If you are seeking high-quality cashmere products at unbeatable prices, explore our website today.  With a wide range of cashmere jumpers, scarves, sweaters, wraps, beanies, and more for both men and women, Rise & Fall has the cashmere product that you didn’t know you needed. Place your order now and enjoy free delivery within the UK on orders over £75, as well as fuss-free 30-day returns. Elevate your style with Rise and Fall's luxury cashmere collection, and let the everlasting appeal of cashmere become a staple in your go-to wardrobe.