| Characterized by its luxuriously soft fibres, Cashmere | | | | the early 1800s. Having been woven into shawls and |
| has long been considered one of the most timeless | | | | worn in India for years (shawls made of coarser |
| and quintessential of fashion staples. An all-season | | | | cashmere 'guard hair' were more common while those |
| must-have and a great long-term investment, | | | | made of finer quality hair were rarer and generally |
| cashmere will almost certainly never go out of fashion. | | | | reserved for noble men and women), travellers, |
| Its silky soft natural fibres ensure it hangs better, lasts | | | | explorers and military personnel began to appreciate |
| longer and is undoubtedly the lightest and most | | | | its beauty and warmth, bringing it back to Europe as |
| breathable article of clothing one could ever own. From | | | | presents for loved ones. Once in Europe cashmere |
| pashmina shawls, scarves, gloves, tank-tops and | | | | fast became the preserve of noble women - its |
| v-neck sweaters, to tie-front ballet tops, wrap | | | | coveted status assured because of its high value. |
| cardigans, camisoles, and even dresses and tights, | | | | The value of cashmere wool tends to vary depending |
| cashmere makes for a tasteful, elegant and | | | | on which part of the Kashmir goat the fur came from. |
| effortlessly chic addition to any outfit for women, men, | | | | The highest quality cashmere tends to come from the |
| babies and children. | | | | goat's throat and underbelly and, as a result, garners |
| Made from the fine soft down coat of the Kashmir | | | | the highest price. The goat's legs and back produce |
| goat (whose natural habitat is the high plateaux of | | | | fibres of a lesser quality, which (although still of high |
| Asia - which is why its coat is naturally so warm), | | | | worth) gain a lower price value. |
| cashmere first attracted the attention of Europeans in | | | | |