A symbol of timeless luxury and elegance, Cashmere isn’t just a fabric, rather has an allure that sets it apart from any other material.
But why does a fabric this comfy come with a cost that makes you rethink?
Because Cashmere isn't just some material, it is a story. A journey of rare beauty, meticulous craftsmanship, and the intricate work of the artisans. It is a tale of the resilient goats braving brutal winters to grow the softest undercoats.
Cashmere is less about fashion and more about legacy, which is what we aim to capture here. Because if you are going to fall in love with cashmere, you might as well know why it is totally worth every penny.
Understanding the Cost of Cashmere
The worth of Cashmere goes beyond the boundaries of luxurious feel. Each step, whether it is sourcing from dedicated goat herders, careful dyeing, spinning by master artisans, or haute couture designs, adds layers of value to the final piece.
Cashmere that is hand-combed in the Kashmir Valley, processed in wool factories, and crafted into couture pieces by renowned fashion houses often commands the highest price. Such garments are not luxury; they are treasures passed down through generations.
But there are a myriad factors on which the cost of cashmere depends, like, the wool may come from a different region or be a part of a mass production batch, rather than a limited-run design.
Here’s a detailed overview on why Cashmere demands such a luxurious price tag.
Why is Cashmere so expensive?
1. The Rarity Factor
Cashmere comes from the undercoat of cashmere goats, primarily found in regions with extreme climates, such as Mongolia, China, and parts of Iran. These goats grow a soft, insulating undercoat to survive the harsh winters, and it is this undercoat that is used to produce cashmere. However, each goat produces only about 150 grams of usable cashmere per year, meaning it takes the fiber from several goats to make a single sweater.
Imagine sourcing diamonds from a single mine; cashmere is just as rare.
2. Limited Production
While other wools can be produced in a mass, cashmere remains artisanal by nature. This is not a product you can churn out in factories. Its limited availability is a big reason why cashmere is considered a luxury.
3. It’s warmer and softer than wool
Cashmere isn't just soft; it is a functional marvel. The fibres are incredibly insulating, and offers eight times the warmth and softness of sheep's wool. So, while it is lightweight enough for chilly Malibu evenings, it is also your best friend during a snowstorm in Aspen.
When you go through our collection, you are not just embracing luxury; you’re wrapping yourself in a cocoon of cozy brilliance.
4. High in demand
With limited supply and growing demand, it is no wonder cashmere that commands such high prices. Luxury fashion brands and conscious consumers alike can’t get enough of this fabric’s unparalleled softness and versatility.
5. Season specific
Cashmere goats only shed their fine undercoat during the spring, making production seasonal and highly dependent on nature. This unpredictability further adds to its exclusivity and cost.
6. Intensive Labor Work
The harvesting process is meticulous, as the cashmere must be carefully combed from the goats by hand during their natural molting season. After collection, the raw fibers undergo cleaning, sorting, and de-hairing to remove coarse outer hairs, leaving only the fine, soft undercoat. This labor-intensive process, combined with the limited supply of raw material, significantly drives up the price of cashmere outfits for both men and women.
7. Sustainable and Ethical Practices
Brands that adhere to stringent quality control and ethical sourcing practices typically charge more for their products. Finally, the prestige associated with cashmere and its status as a luxury item adds a premium to its price.
Understanding Cashmere Grading and Quality
Cashmere is graded on the fineness, length, and colour of the fibers. Let’s unravel how to spot the perfect cashmere that you have always wanted.
- Grade A: The finest quality, with fibers as thin as 14 microns; exceptionally soft, durable, and luxurious.
- Grade B: Slightly thicker, at 20 microns, offering good softness and warmth at a lower price.
- Grade C: The thickest, at 30 microns, less soft but more affordable.
Conclusion
The price tag on cashmere has a story untold. It’s not just assigning monetary value to it, but is the amalgamation of the journey cashmere has been through. From the remote Mongolian fields to your closet, it is a tale of artistry, sustainability, and care.
At 27 Miles Malibu, we understand the value of high-quality cashmere and the craftsmanship that goes into creating timeless, luxurious pieces.
Our commitment to sourcing the finest materials and working with skilled artisans ensures that every garment we produce embodies the beauty and sophistication synonymous with cashmere.
Our collections are designed to offer an elevated experience that transcends trends and provides enduring comfort and style.
