What is the Difference Between Cashmere and Pashmina?
Cashmere and pashmina are often used interchangeably, but they are not always the same. Cashmere refers to the fibre from the undercoat of cashmere goats. Pashmina is commonly used to describe fine cashmere from a specific region and a traditional weaving heritage, but in modern retail, it can also be used more loosely, so checking the fibre content is key.
Cashmere vs Pashmina
| Feature | Cashmere | Pashmina |
| Fibre details | Cashmere goat undercoat fibre. | Traditionally fine cashmere from the Himalayan region, but the label is used variably in modern retail. |
| Weight and thickness | Available in lightweight to heavy knits and weaves. | Often positioned as lighter (but it varies). |
| Durability | Strong when long fibre and well spun, can pill with friction. | Can be very durable if genuine fine fibre, but quality varies by source and blend. |
| Warmth | Excellent insulation for its weight; highly breathable and temperature-regulating. | Very warm relative to its lightness; fine fibres trap heat effectively while remaining soft and airy. |
| Price | Wide range depending on grade, ply, and size. | Can be premium when genuine, but also used on lower-cost blended wraps. |
| Best For | Everyday warmth, travel layering, refined casual, office, evening. | Occasion styling, drapey layering, gifts, formal looks. |
What to Check on the Label
- Fibre content: look for 100% cashmere, or a clearly stated blend if not.
- Weight or GSM when available: helps you compare warmth and drape.
- Size: determines whether it works as a scarf, wrap, or shawl.
- Finish and feel: soft is good, but a slightly dry feel can mean stronger fibre and less immediate shedding.
How to Choose the Perfect Cashmere Wrap
Buying a cashmere wrap is mainly about choosing the right size and weight for how you will actually use it. The best cashmere wrap size depends on how you’ll wear it: as a scarf, a shoulder wrap, or a travel layer.
- Everyday versatile wrap: 200 x 70 cm for the easiest wear and most styling options.
- Travel or extra warmth: go longer or wider for a proper blanket feel (especially for flights and cold climates).
Of course, if you’re petite or taller, you should get a shorter/narrower or longer/wider wrap to suit you comfortably.
Easy way to check sizing before you buy:
- Length: wrist to wrist across your shoulders.
- Width: from the top of your spine to around your elbow.
Is a Cashmere Wrap Suitable Year-round?
Lightweight cashmere works through spring and summer evenings, midweight covers most of the year, and heavier wraps are best saved for winter.
8 Ways to Wear Your Cashmere Wrap
Looking for creative ways to style your cashmere wrap? Here are six easy, wearable ideas you can use year-round, for travel, and for everything in between.
For casual outfits, wear it like an oversized scarf with jeans and a knit, letting the ends hang for an effortless look. For formal events, drape it over both shoulders or sweep it over one shoulder to keep the neckline visible and look elegant.
1. Cosy layering for travel
Use it as a plane layer, then wear it straight off the flight. Drape it over your shoulders for warmth, or fold it lengthways and wear it like an oversized scarf when you are on the move.
2. Over-shoulder Look for Summer
On cooler evenings, wear a lightweight wrap over bare shoulders with a slip dress, linen set, or t-shirt and shorts. Keep it loose and open rather than wrapped tightly so it stays breathable.
3. Simple Shoulder Drape in Spring
Treat it like a light jacket or drape it over your light jacket or cardigan.
4. An Elegant Poncho Style
Drape the wrap over both arms and let it hang over your back, or tie it loosely at the back to wear it as a poncho over a blouse or dress.
5. Autumn Layering
Layer your cashmere piece over knitwear, then wrap it once around the neck under a coat to seal in warmth. Midweight cashmere works best here because it offers warmth without draping too loosely.
6. Style With a Coat
Put your coat on first, then drape the wrap over your shoulders like a cape so the ends fall evenly at the front. For extra security, tuck the ends slightly under your lapels.
7. The Parisian Knot
Fold the wrap in half, drape it around your neck, and pull the loose ends through the loop for a stylish, secure knot.
8. The Elegant Head Wrap
Perfect for windy days or convertible car rides, drape the wrap over your head and shoulders and tie it under the neck. Warmth and elegance.
Cashmere Care: Washing, Storing & Maintaining Quality
Cashmere stays softer for longer when you wash it less, handle it gently, and store it properly.
Do:
- Air your wrap between wears to reduce how often you need to wash it.
- Hand wash in cool water with a gentle wool or cashmere detergent.
- Press water out with a towel, then dry flat to keep its shape.
- Fold for storage to prevent stretching.
- Store clean cashmere, especially before putting it away for the season.
Don’t:
- Use hot water, tumble dry, or hang it to dry.
- Wring or twist the fabric.
- Use bleach or harsh stain removers.
- Store it dirty or damp, as this attracts moths and can cause odours.
Cashmere Care FAQs
1. Can you machine wash cashmere?
Only if the care label allows it. Use a cold wool or delicate cycle, a mesh bag, low spin, and cashmere detergent. If you’re unsure, hand washing is safest.
2. How often should you clean a cashmere wrap?
After several wears, or sooner if it has picked up odour or stains. In between, air it out and spot-clean as needed.
3. How to remove pilling from cashmere
Use a cashmere comb or fabric shaver gently on a flat surface. Avoid pulling pills off by hand, as it can damage fibres.
4. Best storage methods to avoid moths and stretching
Store your shawl folded up in a breathable cotton bag or drawer. Add cedar blocks or lavender sachets, and avoid hanging heavy cashmere, which can stretch.
5. Can cashmere shrink?
Cashmere can shrink due to heat or agitation. Keep water cool, avoid vigorous rubbing, and always dry flat.
For the full step-by-step care guide, read our Cashmere Care Guide.
