As winter approaches, the cashmere sweater is making a comeback in the wardrobe. Soft, delicate and warm, with a round or turtleneck, it’s a must-have that combines comfort and elegance. Here we take a look at the history and origins of this soft fabric.

Cashmere, a luxurious fabric, is produced from the hair of a particular goat, the Capra Hircus, which lives in the Tibetan and Himalayan highlands, and more specifically in Mongolia. Thanks to an extremely fine, soft and isothermal wool coat, the Capra Hircus can withstand harsh winters, where temperatures drop to -40°C.

A delicate fabric

Cashmere production is a delicate process. When spring arrives, the goat naturally moults, shedding part of its hair. In Himalayan regions, where the goat is still partly wild, the hair is collected using an artisanal, environmentally-friendly method: the animals rub themselves against rocks to accelerate their moult, leaving tufts of wool for the local inhabitants to collect.

In Mongolia, where goats are domesticated, wool is obtained by combing or shearing, a technique that maximizes the harvest without damaging the fiber.

The quality of cashmere is determined by the fineness, softness and warmth of the hair. This precious material is three times warmer than sheep’s wool and so much softer that it can be worn directly on the skin, without the unpleasant itching associated with conventional wool.

Origin and history of cashmere

The origin of the name “cashmere” goes back to the eponymous region in India, where weaving of this refined wool developed, taking the silk route to spread throughout the world. By the 19th century, Europe had discovered this rare fabric, a symbol of luxury and comfort. However, the Kashmir region has now marginalized its production, and the majority of cashmere is now produced in Mongolia. Production there remains artisanal, contributing to the subsistence of local populations in an often inhospitable environment.

Cashmere remains a rare fabric, representing less than 0.5% of the world’s wool production, making it an exceptional product. The cashmere culture, rooted in Mongolia’s unique traditions and climatic conditions, continues to thrive, and is unlikely to be rivalled by other countries. As a result, the production of cashmere continues to be a precious and prized craft, embodying the luxury and rarity of a material that, even in the 21st century, retains an element of mystery and magic.

Every year, leading cashmere brands bring this winter classic to life. Among them, Eric Bompard, Kujten and Hircus offer their iconic revisits in timeless selections.