The diverse styles in the Art of Pashmina tremendously preserve the integrity of the finest Cashmere. Each style of Pashmina Art caters to the finest Cashmere of Ladakh. With the advent of time, traditional styles amalgamate with contemporary ways of wearing exquisite Cashmere accessories. The Cashmere accessories encompass Cashmere Scarves, Cashmere Wraps and Pashmina Shawls. The marvelous look of each style confers upon the wearer several ways of wearing the Cashmere accessories. Often people get confused about the ways to wear a particular style. Thus, we have gathered several ways of tying the Cashmere Scarf in the world of fashion.

A tradition as rich as the mountains it comes from, cashmere is the whisper of winter winds woven into fabric. It is a fiber that combines strength and a delicate, ethereal quality, derived from the Himalayan goat's soft undercoat. Touched, cashmere beckons the fingers to stay, its texture like a mist that spreads over the skin, providing opulent, personal warmth. A garment with centuries of craftsmanship and an air of timeless elegance is weaved from threads that connect to the most delicate aspects of nature.

As a representation of subtle sophistication, cashmere endures in a world of fads and trends. Its understated charm enhances any ensemble, whether it is worn as a shawl enveloping the wearer in a cocoon of soft warmth or as a scarf cascading beautifully over the shoulders. Its color spectrum, which reflects the landscapes that inspired its development, goes from the palest ivory to the deepest charcoal. Wearing cashmere is like embracing a story that never goes out of style—a narrative of the artistic ability of nature woven together with human hands to create a garment that feels like a gentle embrace every time it is on.

The Fine Cashmere Wool

There are diverse breeds of Cashmere producing goats. Each breed has a specific percentage of production in the total production. The several breeds viz;  Australian Cashmere Goat, Liaoning, Inner Mongolia, Xinjiang, Hexi, Zhonghwei, Tibetan Plateau, Luliang breeds, Changthanghi, etc. Therefore, all the breeds produce the Cashmere wool that produces the warmth. The exclusive breed of goats called Changra Goats is rare species of goats

In addition, the Goats produce the fine Cashmere wool once every year. Therefore, only around 80 to 170 gms of Ladakhi Cashmere are produced during a year. Therefore, considered the rarest. Also, other breeds of it produce several times more as there is almost 400 million Cashmere eliciting Goats all over the world. Consequently, the production caters to the manufacture of different styles like Pashmina Shawls, Cashmere Scarves, and Cashmere Wraps.

Procuring the finest Ladakhi Cashmere wool

The methodical procedure that is based on custom and reverence for the natural world is necessary to obtain the best Cashmere wool. In order to withstand the severe winters, the resilient Cashmere goats in the Himalayan Mountains develop a silky undercoat. This is where the adventure starts. During the spring molt, the exceptional softness and warmth of this valuable fleece are meticulously combed by hand. Goats are protected from injury by expert herders who harvest the downy fibers gently.

After being gathered, the wool is carefully sorted. The best Cashmere is made from only the finest fibers, defined as those with a diameter of less than 16 microns. The yarn that is created from these fibers is warm and light at the same time, which makes it perfect for crafting opulent clothing. Cashmere is one of the most sought-after materials in the world, representing the ideal fusion of human workmanship with the finest elements of nature because of its scarcity and labor-intensive collection procedure.

Crafting of finest Cashmere

It starts by thorough cleaning of the wool. Afterwards, the Spinning is mainly done after the Cashmere is cleaned thoroughly. The Cashmere is taken to the homes of Kashmir where women work on a spinning wheel called Yaender in the local language. They spun the Pashmina to make Pashmina Yarns. The Cashmere yarns are softer than anything. 

After the process of Spinning, the Pashmina yarns are woven to craft a Pashmina Shawl. It is called Weaving. The process of Weaving is enforced by the men's artisans who weave the Pashmina yarns on a handloom made of wood. Artisans work in the workshops where these handlooms are set up. The aura of Kashmir is adjoined in every interweave. Afterwards, the Pashmina Shawl is dyed as per requirement and eventually it is given to the artisans who do hand embroidery on it in intricate Hand-embroideries of Kashmir.

History of Pashmina Craft

It all started when a Persian saint was travelling across the globe. Mir Syed Ali Hamdani was a sage from the Middle East. The footprints of a saint Mir Syed Ali Hamdani from the middle east came to Kashmir with 700 craftsmen to adorn the beauty of the valley and to spread the holy message. He rested his feet in the region of Changhthanghi Ladakh. Thus, the saint landed its appearance in the Changhthangi Mountain in Ladakh. While perceiving nature, he locked his eyes on the Goat of marvellous wool. Awestruck with the softness and fineness of the wool, he made socks out of it and gifted them to the Sultan Zain-ul-Abideen of Kashmir Valley. Perceiving the beauty of Cashmere wool, suggested making an industry that cultivates the Pashmina in desirable styles. Even the name Pashmina, derived from the Persian word, pashm, meaning "the soft gold" is exquisite in being.

What is an elegant Cashmere Scarf?

Starting the journey from the undercoat of Changthangi Goat from the Ladakh region. The journey moves ahead in the direction of Pashmina Art. The craft known for its authenticity and fineness in the valley of Kashmir is cherished all over the world. After the cleaning and spinning process of the Cashmere wool. The Cashmere yarn produced from the spinning process goes to the further process of Weaving. The weaving is done on the handlooms of the valley. The artisans work in local workshops/karkhanas over the handloom to curate the fine Cashmere fabric.

After the weaving on the handlooms of the valley, the Cashmere Scarves stepped ahead the way towards the colourful journey. The Cashmere Scarves are an elegant form of Pashmina Art to depict the artwork of elegance. Moreover, there is a miraculous companionship of various shades of colours on the Cashmere Scarves. The artwork is done by the skilled hand of Rangur, the dyer.

Furthermore, Cashmere Scarves are produced in a variety of different patterns and colours. The harmony between the dyes of different patterns gives a Cashmere Scarf a radiance of luxury and elegance. The handcrafted Cashmere goes on the path of Luxury fashion because of the versatility of Pashmina Art. Also, the intricate weave of chashm_e_bulbul/ diamond weave gives a texture to the presence.

In addition, the Cashmere Scarves are the Scarves that go well with every attire. Thus, heightening the style quotient to levels. The Cashmere scarves given the requisite shades of colours by the skilled dyer are explicit. The exquisite nature of these Cashmere Scarves is well-defined in the world of craft through Pashmina Art. Furthermore, the versatile Pashmina Art of the valley confers to the creation of opulent Cashmere Scarves in the most ethical way. Accordingly, the authenticity of the Cashmere Scarves is worn in all seasons by the wearers. These pure accessories are worn in any season with diverse ways of wearing. Some are enumerated below:

1. The All-Neck Cover

This is an elegant style to tie a Cashmere scarf. It can work with a sweater, overcoat or any formal or semi-formal attire. In the time of winter, the whole neck style not only gives an exquisite look but also provides adequate warmth. All you need is to make a small tie in the middle section of the Cashmere scarf. Afterwards, spread the Cashmere scarf on your neck while holding the knot in the middle of the chest. Then, cross both ends of the scarf through that knot. The look gives you the elegance of luxury even on cold days.

2. The Full whirl of Cashmere Scarf

This is an elegant way to tie a Cashmere scarf in the weather of cold. This look not only gives you adequate style but also keeps your neck full of warmth during winter. This is an easy style of wrapping your neck with one end of the Cashmere Scarf. The process of draping needs to continue till many layers. Then, take one corner of the Cashmere scarf and tuck it into the layered part to create a triangle-like shape in the front section. The look goes well with formals and casuals to surrender the luxury in your attire of fashion.

Also read: 9 EXTRAVAGANT GIFT IDEAS FOR THE WOMAN WHO HAS ALMOST EVERYTHING

3. The Traditional Shoulder

The look is the easiest and simplest. All you have to do is take the Cashmere scarf and lay it on one of your shoulders. Therefore, the simplest go-to look for any day. You can also use a brooch to secure the Cashmere Scarf on the shoulder. The elegance and glamour of this look are mesmerising. Also, it's the traditional look and it has been a constant for luxurious fashion for ages.

4. Around the neck Cashmere Scarf

The elegant way of showering the luxury in your presence is this look. All you have to do is take the Cashmere Scarf and drape it around your neck twice in such a way that both the ends of the scarf are at your front upper body. The look not only enhances the style quotient but also provides warmth to the neck on cold days. Keep this look handy with your casuals and formals on any day of any season.

5. The Simple drape of a Cashmere scarf

This is the most simple drape that you can wear on any day. Just take the Cashmere Scarf and drape it around your neck and let it loose in the front of your upper body. Moreover, you can embellish the look with a belt. You can simply tie the belt around your waist and tuck it in front in such a way that you are tucking both the loose sides of the Cashmere Scarf. This looks goes well on casual days and even in party wear. The looks keep your style statement to the highest. Thus, the graceful Cashmere confers upon the presence of the wearer.

Also read: HOW TO WEAR A PASHMINA SHAWL ELEGANTLY?

Luxurious Fashion of Cashmere Scarf

The height of opulent style, a cashmere scarf skillfully combines unparalleled comfort and classic grace. Its finer-than-human hair strands caress the skin in a gentle manner, providing a subtle warmth without being heavy. A Cashmere scarf adds a touch of refinement and suppleness to any outfit, whether it is worn casually or for formal events. The graceful movement of the cloth and the delicate ways it catches the light are a testament to its exquisite craftsmanship and overall grandeur.

A cashmere scarf is a subtle, sophisticated statement in the world of fashion. Its color pallet, which varies from delicate neutrals to rich jewel tones, makes it suitable for a variety of looks, and the material's longevity guarantees that it will be a treasured wardrobe essential for many years to come. The scarf embodies the eternal charm of one of nature's finest fabrics, enveloping you in a layer of luxury that is ageless and transcends trends with each wear.

Sustainability and Slow Fashion through a Cashmere Scarf

A cashmere scarf honors workmanship above mass production and quality over quantity, embodying the spirit of slow fashion and sustainability. The natural, renewable resource known as cashmere is ethically extracted from the undercoat of Himalayan goats using time-honored methods that show respect for the environment and the animals. A scarf made of cashmere is an investment that will last because of its timeless elegance and durability, which make it resistant to fads and trends. Because of its manufacture, a cycle of conscientious consumption is supported, where each scarf is a well-made object rather than a quick fashion purchase.

A Cashmere scarf is the ideal representation of the slow fashion movement, which promotes a return to thoughtful shopping. The tale of the craftsmen who painstakingly hand-spin, weave, and create each piece adds to its beauty, in addition to the softness of its fibers. With years, if not decades, of wear and love ahead of them, these scarves are made with longevity in mind, meaning fewer replacements will be required down the road. A cashmere scarf is more than simply a stylish piece of clothing; it's a declaration of support for ethical fashion, sustainability, and a more deliberate, conscientious connection with apparel.

The Serene Collection of the finest Cashmere

We, at pashmina.com, confer to all the attires with eloquent Pashmina Art. The finest Cashmere is curated in the sphere of Kashmir valley through the Art of Pashmina. The unique collection is the gift of highly skilled artisans and the traditions of the Valley itself. Ethically produced to make the part of nature sustainable in its creation. We have a huge collection of Pashmina Art accessories catering to both men and women in the fashion world. The luxurious collection cherishes every masterpiece of Pashmina Art. Therefore, having one in your closet takes you towards a step forward in the sphere of fashion.

Also read: IS CASHMERE THE SAME AS PASHMINA?

Pashmina Shawls are versatile accessories. They are the beauty of the glorious Kashmir Valley. At the beginning of the craft, there were mainly Pashmina Shawls. Till now, there is a proper crafting of a Pashmina Shawl. Wearing the Pashmina Shawls is extremely breathtaking and glorifies luxury manifold. Towards the premium quality procuring and crafting, there is an ethical and sustainable beauty also present. Beneath every warp and weft, the nature of every step is cherished by the artisans. There are infinite ways of wearing a Pashmina Shawl. Yet, the definition of contemporary ways is the top. The Pashmina Shawl is worn in ways making the appearance explicit.

The Procuring of Cashmere for a Pashmina Shawl

The Changhthanghi plateau extends into the region of Ladakh. It is a high-altitude region in Ladakh. The herders around the Ladakhi Changhthanghi are of the Changpa tribe. The tribe herds the rarest breed of Goats called Changra.

It is known that at high altitudes, the temperature lowers to the minimum. The winters are the harshest in this region of Changhthanghi. Therefore, the Changra Goats naturally cover their bodies with thick wool to combat the harsh winters. All along the winters, the thick wool reserves the heat beneath their bodies giving them the warmth of nature. On the seasonal change in climate, the goats naturally shed off the wool with the help of coarse rocks and trees. To overcome the heat of summer, they eventually shed off the thick wool mostly from their bellies, neck region, and behind the ears. In addition, the herders also comb out the wool manually. The soft wool is Cashmere wool.

Spinning and Weaving in Kashmir

After combing out the Cashmere wool, it is cleaned from the excess dust and filled in the packets to transfer to the valley of Kashmir. The Cashmere wool is sorted and undergoes several procedures in the valley itself. The cleaning, drying, and soaking make the Cashmere wool vividly clean. Afterwards, the Cashmere wool is translated to the finest fibres by the process of spinning. The yarn of fineness is transferred to the handlooms in the valley to weave the yarn into several styles of accessories. The whole process of spinning and weaving the finest Cashmere is called the Art of Pashmina. Moving along the art of Pashmina, several other processes like dyeing, printing, interweaving, and embroidering the Cashmere cater to the exclusive collection of Cashmere. The art of Pashmina cherishes every inch of the finest Cashmere to bring luxury to the world.

History of Pashmina Art

The origin of the finest Cashmere dates back to the 13th century. A sage from the Middle East, Mir Syed Ali Shah Hamdani started his journey with 700 craftsmen towards Kashmir. On his journey to Kashmir, he encountered the rare goats of Ladakh. He was enthralled by the fine wool on their bodies. He combed some out of them and made socks. The fine socks were warm and Pure. He gifted them to the ruler of Kashmir, Zain-ul-Abideen. In addition, he suggested making a local industry to curate the fine wool. His 700 craftsmen taught the people of Kashmir several skills. These skills proved to be the main requisite for curating the finest Cashmere. Thus, the art of Pashmina came into existence. High skill prevails in the valley till now. It has been incorporated into the heritage of Kashmir Valley. 

Ways of wearing a Pashmina as a top

There are ways to make way for the Pashmina Shawls to be worn as tops. These look enhance beauty in a western way and glorify your luxury.

1. The Bulky Top

Fold your Pashmina Shawl in half and then stretch one of the sides of the Shawl, making it a trapezium in shape. Then, put it on your waist and tie it. Afterwards, take the back part and push it up towards the neck and tie it. Similarly, take the front corners and tie them at the back of the neck. Arrange and Re-arrange as per comfort. This is your first look at the elegance of the Pashmina Shawl.

2. The Torso Bow

Fold the Pashmina Shawl into half horizontally and take it from your back. Tie it to your torso and adjust. Then, take the shawl edges and make a normal bow in the front to give it a chic look on the day of any season. This can style with jeans, a skirt etc. Adding some metal jewellery will enhance your look thrice.

Also read: HOW CAN YOU TELL IF A CASHMERE IS REAL?

3. The Choker Top

Fold your Pashmina Shawl in half and then fold it diagonally. Afterwards, put the shawl on your front and tie the edges of the triangle at the back. This look can be enhanced by adding a choker on the neck. Also, you can add formal jeans to the top.

4. The belt Top

Fold the Pashmina Shawl lengthwise and drape it around the shoulders leaving the lengths on the front of your torso. Then take a belt and tie it around your chest line to secure your top. You can enhance this look by wearing jeans and boots on any day of the season.

Also read: 8 REASONS TO BUY A CASHMERE SCARF NOW!

The ‘heaven on earth’ Kashmir is undoubtedly famous for its scenic wonders, but Kashmiri textile production of this quaint valley has made it even more eminent amongst the masses. 

In the North of India, lies Kashmir, which has been famous as the ‘paradise on earth’ ever since Emperor Jehangir called it so. Full of picturesque places and artistically wonderous belongings, every ounce of air in this valley adds to its glory even more. The traditions of this valley are glorious enough to allure the entire world toward it and make it a tourist destination for every travel lover. But it is not just the natural wonders and traditional lives of the people that attract attention. It is the local artisan produce that makes the valley prominent and globally recognized.

Handicrafts of Kashmir

Certainly, one of the most acclaimed assets that Kashmir houses are its handicrafts. Be it Kashmiri carpets which are handwoven in silk, Kashmiri shawls made from Cashmere, wool and shahtoosh, wood carving done with walnut wood, embroidery patterns of various types, rug making which is called Namda, and other magnificent art forms, they have attracted and managed to patronise people. Amongst all the art and craft forms that the valley engages in, textile making is surely one of the prominent ones. There are a number of Kashmiri textiles that the valley exports, owing to the admiration they received across the globe. 

Textiles of Kashmir

The rich Kashmiri textiles from the valley range from carpets to shawls and silk fabrics. All of these are renowned across nations and bring Kashmir more fame and glory with growing productions. Let us discuss the rich and luxurious textiles of Kashmir one by one

Kashmiri Shawls

Who doesn't know about the prestigious and glorious Kashmiri shawls in the world? These have royal patronage and are still worn by admirers of ancient art and craft. Kashmiri shawls form an important section of Kashmiri textiles and are categorised into three types on the basis of the material used. 

Shahtoosh shawls

Shahtoosh shawls are the most expensive and luxurious shawls produced in the valley. These are prepared from the fine down hair of the Tibetan antelope found in the Himalayan ranges. This hair is unbelievably soft and fine (just 7 to 10 microns in diameter). The antelope produces the hair to survive freezing temperatures, and hence it can be guessed how warm the hair is which protects the animal from bone-chilling cold. The hair is processed manually, and luxury handcrafted shawls are manufactured. 

Shahtoosh shawls are banned owing to the animal cruelty associated with their procurement. The antelopes are killed by hunters to strip them of the wool.

Pashmina shawls

When it comes to Kashmiri textiles and shawl making, Pashmina shawls are the next best to Shahtoosh. And since Shahtoosh is banned, Pashmina is the only option in luxury accessorising we have. Pashmina shawls are handcrafted from Ladakhi Cashmere. The wool grows as down fibre to the Changthangi goat in Ladakh, which helps it survive the harshest of cold. The diameter of this fine wool is 12 to 16 microns, and this makes it soft, lightweight, smooth, and super fine.

The goat loses this fine hair in its moulting period, which is from March - April. This is cleaned and sent for processing to Kashmir, where the utmost skilled artisans process it manually over looms. This resulted in the formation of the world-famous Pashmina shawls. 

It was Pashmina shawls that caused an uproar in the fashion world when in the 18th century they spread wings over Europe. Empress Josephine of France owned hundreds of Pashmina shawls, and since then, Pashmina shawl sales knew no bounds.

Pashmina shawls are less expensive when compared to Shahtoosh. This makes them the most favoured and invested in. Every woman in Kashmir owns a Pashmina shawl, apart from their woollen counterparts. 

Also read: HOW CAN YOU TELL IF A CASHMERE IS REAL?

Woollen shawls

Pure wool Shawls, locally known as raffle shawls in Kashmir, are made from Merino wool. The high-quality wool makes these shawls soft and fine, an important part of the Kashmiri textile business. Wool shawls are sturdy and durable, and this makes them perfect for casual days. Moreover, their thick base can hold any embroidery, lightweight or heavy, and hence every type of embroidery is done on these shawls, making them alluring and purchase-worthy.

Kashmiri Carpets

The art of carpet weaving dates back to the 15th century, and like most crafts, it came from Persia. For Kashmiri carpet making, wool or silk is used. Sometimes a combination of wool and silk is used. 

Kashmiri carpets can range from 200 knots to 900 knots per sq inch, and this is manually done. For this reason, they are well known for their excellent quality and majestic appearance. 

Kashmiri Tweed

Tweed of Kashmir to is cherished by admirers all over the world. It is a wool product that goes through 8 steps from the shearing of wool to the completion of the final product. Tweed is used to making coats, sweaters, suits, caps and more. Kashmiri tweed is also used to make the traditional gown of Kashmir, phiran, which helps to keep people warm in winter. 

Manual weaving of Kashmiri tweed from 100% wool makes it strong, and its patterns like herringbone, plain, striped and houndstooth make it beautiful. 

Kashmiri Silk

Kashmiri silk forms an important part of Kashmiri textiles. The tradition of cocoon rearing was started by King Zain ul Abideen. And it was under his rule that sericulture flourished multifold. Weaving and printing of silk are usually not undertaken in Kashmir, but cocoon rearing is done on a large scale. Kashmiri silk too is famous like other crafts, as it is one of the best quality silk available. Kashmiri silk sarees sell in exponential quantities all over India and abroad. 

Hence, apart from being a scenic attraction, Kashmir is rich in textiles and other handicrafts too. Undoubtedly it is famous for many of its textiles but some prominent among these are discussed above. Kashmiri Pashmina shawls are something that every single person in the world is aware of. Its fine texture, lightweight and immense warmth made it famous since the 18th century, and till now the grandeur hasn't diminished. 

Also read: 8 REASONS TO BUY A CASHMERE SCARF NOW!

Shopping and women are synonymous with each other. For some, this may sound stereotypical, but it’s rare to come across a lady who doesn’t like to come across as debonair and exude class. Today’s empowered woman is all about speaking her mind, which must also reflect in the way she carries herself. Right from her choice of clothing to the selection of accessories, every detail is of utmost importance to make an impression in this competitive world. Since there’s no dearth of girl bosses today who don’t mind shelling out big bucks, let’s look at a few of the most extravagant gift ideas for the fashion-conscious woman.

Gift ideas for the woman who has almost everything

These gift ideas are some of the best from the world of luxury and will leave your lady swooning over them!

Here’s a sneak peek

Luxury Gifting 1: A classic Louis Vuitton holdall

There’s no better way to make head turns than owning a Louis Vuitton holdall. It’s chic, and classy and is a timeless accessory to have! With airport looks being the newest trend on the block, you are sure to get noticed if you carry this piece. To even take your look a notch higher, you can invest in a vintage-style monogrammed luggage bag as well. Sounds like a good plan!

Luxury Gifting 2: Chanel lambskin and tweed mittens

Most fashion-conscious women would already own a Chanel pearl or their expensive perfumes, but it is uncommon to find a lady with a pair of lambskin tweed mittens. These are perfect for those winter months when you want to feel warm and toasty. What’s more? It is one of the hottest styles of this season!

Check these here

Luxury Gifting 3: The Empress Crown Pashmina Shawl by Pashmina.com

Pashmina is a timeless piece and the ultimate word in luxury. This Pashmina shawl is brilliantly and vividly evocative of ancient Mughal gardens and is adorned with stunning paisley patterns in a contemporary choice of cultures. It lends a touch of elegance and the wearer is a sight to behold. In the flood of fast fashion, this Pashmina shawl from Pashmina.com is the epitome of sustainable luxury and reflects the highest level of craftsmanship

You can check it out here

Luxury Gifting 4: Gucci Embroidered Cushions

It was a big moment when Gucci announced its interiors collection and delighted fashionistas and interior enthusiasts alike. Their velvet cushions with leopard or cat embroidery are quirky, classy and stunning. It is sure to bedazzle the lady who receives these as a gift! The cat motifs are especially characteristic of Gucci and are sure to add a fun yet opulent touch to your drawing room or bedroom.

Luxury Gifting 5: Celine Handbag

No matter how many handbags a lady owns, it’s never enough. Women generally have a fetish for bags and can have an entire closet for them. Don’t you remember Sarah Jessica Parker’s walk-in closet in  ‘Sex and the City’? Almost all of us want that, don't we? It’s all about minimalist designs and stunning colours that defines a Celine bag. This accessory will show you have razor-sharp taste and have your fashion game on.

Luxury Gifting 6: Fornasetti scented candles

It might be freezing outside, but the warmth of the ever-glamorous island of Capri, which is imprinted on to these candles, is what evokes magic and they can be the perfect backdrop for a romantic dinner at home or a date with yourself at home. It has the aroma of lemon, bergamot, galbanum and samphire, which will remind of the Mediterranean parts of the world!

Luxury Gifting 7: Crystal buckled heels, Manolo Blahnik

There are only certain gifts in the world that instantly leave a woman delighted. Did you hear shoes? Yes, you are right. Women fall flat the very mention of shoes, especially when it comes to a pair of classy heels that are comfortable and luxurious at the same time. These bejeweled Manolos are a sight to behold and add that touch of grace to any outfit. The one in ruby red especially adds that festive flair!

Luxury Gifting 8: Grand Golden Yin Zhen

Tea is a beverage that is preferred by both men and women alive. If your lady is a tea aficionado, then the Golden Yin Zhen blend cover white tea leaves with 24-carat gold is the best gift you could give her! It is described by the company as “a magic potion which yields a swirling and sparkling infusion”

Luxury Gifting 9: Prada’s leather card holder

This Saffiano card holder is chic and useful at the same time and has Prada written on it in gold lettering. It has six compartments to hold cards, which should be enough, and two pockets. Many might consider this to not be a significant accessory but ask a woman and you’d know!

Now that we’ve hand-picked a few options for you, what are you waiting for? Go all out and splurge on a luxurious gift ideas for your lady love. After all, she’s special for a reason. Happy Shopping!

Also read: 20 MOST ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT PASHMINA AND CASHMERE

It was the second half of the 18th century when Europe saw the rise of a new garment. It was a wrap, which was unconditionally soft, warm, and light. The patterns this new wrap hosted were yet to be seen by Europeans; for that matter even those produced by their local artisans. This product was the Kashmiri Shawl. Kashmiri artisans handcrafted it out of raw Cashmere wool. 

The Kashmiri shawl was alluring and pleasing to the eyes. Its quality was simply unmatched. Owing to its qualities, it was used as a status symbol by the royal women of Europe. Among them was the fashion icon of Europe, Empress Josephine, who set it to a timeless fashion after owning hundreds. Later it was Queen Victoria, who further solidified its popularity among the rich, influential, and nobles. 

Due to their popularity, India and the West became partners in the trade of these shawls. Large numbers of Kashmiri shawls traveled all routes to reach Europe. A large number of local European companies, who attempted to copy the design of Kashmiri shawls also flourished. The next six decades, starting from the early 19th century, witnessed an obsessive patronage of the shawl. As a result, the original Kashmiri shawls adapted to local design, and henceforth, much changed in its patterns and looks. 

What is the Kashmiri shawl?

Kashmiri shawls are handmade wraps that women wear around their shoulders. These keep away cold or simply aggrandize an outfit. Some common synonyms of the Kashmiri shawls are: Pashmina shawl (shawls made from Cashmere), paisley shawl (a famous motif), & more. The name of the Kashmiri shawl varies as per the material used, the motifs used the place it is made or the technique with which it is crafted. As far as the material used in Kashmiri shawls is concerned, these can be:

woolen shawls,

Pashmina shawls, and

Shahtoosh shawls.

As far as the weaving technique is concerned, Kani shawls rule the world of textiles. And on the basis of motifs and patterns, Kashmiri shawls are paisley shawls, Jamawar shawls, Jaalidaar shawls, and more. 

The most famous Kashmiri shawls are, however, the Pashmina shawl and the Shahtoosh shawl. Both these shawls come from the down fibre of rare animals, which is the finest and softest. Pashmina shawls come from Pashm, a fleece growing on the body of a Pashmina goat of the Ladakh region. Kashmir is independent of any other nation as far as the production of Pashm wool is concerned. All the produce comes from the goats of Ladakh, who grow just 150 grams a year. 

The wonders of Shahtoosh

On the other hand, Shahtoosh is another category that was once reserved only for the Mughal kings. The fleece for making the Shahtoosh shawl comes from the Tibetan Antelope (chiru). It is the finest in the wool industry. This animal is, however, endangered now due to their low population. Trading in or buying Shahtoosh shawls is forbidden. These are no longer in use, which makes Pashmina shawls the most preferred ones. Nevertheless, neither of these has a substitute, and both have reigned long during their times. 

The Quality of Kashmiri shawls

The demand for Kashmiri shawls always exceeded the supply. This was because of the unmatched quality and weaving techniques that Kashmir had a monopoly in. The high-quality textiles and the unparalleled skill of local artisans made it possible for Kashmir to enjoy the ownership of being the best producer of shawls. Kashmir had geographical advantages, and hence it was now a center of high-quality textile production. 

Distinctive weaving patterns and wonderfully fine wool combine to produce a Kashmiri shawl. As a result of these factors, Europeans were fascinated with the quality of Kashmiri shawls. This resulted in immense demand for these pieces. When the demand was higher than the supply, some traders and manufacturers started making fake and copied shawls. But even these sold out on a large scale. However, these could never compete with the art of the original artists - the Kashmiri shawl makers. Kashmiri artisans had an unmatched skill. Even if one tried to copy, he would fail.

The Rise of the Paisley Motif

The Paisley motif or the Buta as it is locally called, became the most well-known and used motif when it came to Kashmiri shawls. The paisley motif is like a teardrop and has ancient origins. It has been in use since the Mughal period. Since then, however, it has changed its shape many times, owing to the changes in fashion. Before the Europeans made their own version of this motif, Paisley looked like a teardrop. Paisley is the western name of the Buta motif. It is derived from a town in Scotland, called Paisley. This town became the largest producer of imitation Kashmiri shawls featuring the Paisley motif. 

Historians have suggested a number of versions of this motif that was mainly used in Kashmiri shawls. While some claim that the motif is inspired by cypress trees in pre-Islamic Iran (cypress was a significant symbol back then), others suggest it is just a floral design. But Europeans changed the shape of the motif according to their own understanding of its history. Many changes occured in its design to fit its own customer base. 

Till the 1800s, the paisley motif existed on almost all patterned shawls and took the bordering place mostly. But Europeans made it clear that shawls could even be patterned with Paisley motifs all over their base. With the invention of the jacquard loom, it became more possible as the loom could produce patterned shawls easily. 

Kashmiri Shawl before Europeans took over

Kashmir had always been under a number of cultural influences because of its geographical location. I shared borders with Persian civilizations and the Islamic world, Tibet, the Himalayas, and India. Hence it would come under the sway of different cultures and rulers. Each one would contribute one feature or the other to the local handicrafts. As a result, Persian, Hindu, Sikh, British, and other cultures directly influenced Kashmiri culture

As far as the glory and zenith of the Kashmiri shawl are concerned, it was during the reign of Sultan Zain ul Abideen. He ruled from 1420 to 1470. After that when Akbar came to rule in around 1586, the shawl experienced newness; the current rule brought their own innovations into the designs. The Kashmiri shawl has mention in the autobiography of King Akbar - Ain I Akbari - written by Abu Fazl. The book acknowledges the Emperor's love and reverence for Kashmir shawls, especially for Shahtoosh shawls. 

Shahtoosh and Pashmina Kashmiri Shawls

Shahtoosh shawls experienced a different level of reverence and adoration from kings and commoners. It was called the ‘ring shawl’, as it could be passed through a finger ring. Shahtoosh shawls were a luxury item and signified rank and status. These were also given to diplomats as gifts, as well as to nobles as a mark of high service, great achievement, or simply a royal favour (khilat). The receiver would automatically become a subordinate, and the giver an autonomous power, in some cases. However, a large number of researchers believe that it wasn't Shahtoosh, but Pashmina shawls that were presented as khilat. The culture of gifting Pashmina shawl remained even after the Mughal rule diminished. 

Early Europeans, who visited the valley, were much confused about the culture of Khilat. But as they spent time with the locals, they understood how graceful of a tradition it was. Soon they started doing the same with their counterparts. As a result, by the 18th century, Kashmiri shawls spread their wings over larger areas, not just Kashmir or India. It was a well-established handicraft of Kashmir - luxurious and high style. Its makers were considered as one of the most skilled communities on earth. 

Kashmiri shawl arrives in Europe

The most common belief of scholars is that the Kashmiri shawl was introduced in Europe by Napoleon when he was on a campaign in 1789-1801. It was he who purchased a Kashmiri shawl (Kani shawl), and on his return to France. He then presented the same to his wife. Being a style icon, and world-famous for her classic taste, Josephine was able to set the shawls to a timeless fashion. She owned over a hundred shawls and made them the most iconic accessory of those times. 

However, a large number of researchers do not agree with this. They argue that Kashmiri shawls in Europe preceded this story and that Napoleon and Josephine already knew about Kashmiri shawls. It might have been the East India company that introduced Kashmiri shawls in Europe. The officials of the East India Company would have sent some shawls to their hometowns as gifts back in the 1700s, and that would have been the start of it. Officials might have experienced the luxurious nature of the shawl and gifted it to their wives while returning back to their countries.

As a result, a large number of regions in Europe started replicating the shawls. Surprisingly, even replicated shawls picked up the pace. This was especially with the less privileged women who couldn't afford the high-priced original shawls. Nevertheless, original Kashmiri shawls were mostly worn by high society women, rich and affluent nobles, and wives of ruling kings and Emperors. 

The Paisley Motif

A major symbol in the Kashmiri shawls which were popular in Europe was the Paisley motif, locally called Buta. Many Europeans believed that the Kashmiri shawl is the Buta shawl, and used these two terms synonymously. Nevertheless, the quality of the original Kashmiri shawl was never matched. This was primarily because of the absence of Pashm and the unmatched skill of Kashmiri artisans. For this reason, the British became desperate to acquire the Pashm-producing goats. So, as a part of the treaty of Amritsar, the victorious Britishers forced the Sikh empire to pay an annual tribute of 12 shawl goats. 

An episode like this had taken place some time back. Decades prior to this episode, Willian Moorcroft (an English explorer) traveled to Kashmir and decided to sneak 50 goats to England. Unfortunately for them, just 25 male goats made it to England. But these goats could not produce fine Pashm owing to the difference in climatic conditions of England. Hence Kashmir retained its monopoly of producing the finest Pashmina shawls; the world had to compromise on being the buyers rather than producers. 

The popularity of the Kashmiri Pashmina shawl endangered the shawls all around the world. The demand rose so much that around the 1800s, Kashmiri artisans produced new designs and techniques that were directly influenced by Europeans. Administrators came from France and took charge of the industry, thus introducing a large number of French patterns. This was done to fulfill the tastes of locals as well as European customers 

The Fall of the Shawl

Around the 1870s, several factors led to the decline of the Kashmiri shawl as well as its western copies. A large number of fashionable capes and jackets took over. This decreased the humongous demand for the shawl day by day. Another reason for the decline of the shawl was the Franco-Prussian war. The war led to a disruption in trade between Europe and the world, including Kashmir. Kashmir also experienced a famine in the 1870s which led to an economic crisis. This made the artisans in Kashmir quite weak, and some even died as a result.

This led to a severe drop in production and hence the sales of Kashmiri shawls. As a result, Europeans embraced machine-made shawls. The Kashmiri shawl industry continued dipping, and never really recovered from this production famine. It is the recent times that the shawl industry has gained impetus again. It is now that workers started mass production of original Kashmiri shawls. 

Also read: HOW CAN YOU TELL IF A CASHMERE IS REAL?

Concluding

The story of Kashmiri shawls shows the changes it went through. From being a luxury piece of wrap of incomparable quality, the shawl became an everyday accessory for the middle class. Some believe it was industrialization that rendered this precious fabric a common wrap that everyone could use regularly. What was once an elite Mughal possession could now be seen in every nook and corner of London, New York, and Paris. Moreover, it cost them a little more than any affordable accessory.

Also read: 20 MOST ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT PASHMINA AND CASHMERE

So many questions about Cashmere and Pashmina arise, and as experts in the fabric, customers ask us the following questions all the time. Hence we made a list of the most popular 10 questions about Cashmere and Pashmina and answered them for you.

FAQS ABOUT PASHMINA

Difference between Cashmere and Pashmina

The most asked question is perhaps about the difference between Cashmere and Pashmina. Sometimes the two terms are used interchangeably. While some say that Cashmere is the low-quality Pashmina, others argue that Pashmina is the best quality Cashmere, while others use the two terms for one another. But the actual definition is not known to the masses. 

Pashmina is the art of handcrafting luxury shawls, scarves, and wraps from Cashmere. Cashmere is the fine animal hair growing on the body of the Himalayan Capra Hircus. Infact, it is this hair that is processed manually for months and even years together, to bring into existence  Pashmina shawls. 

What is GI Pashmina?

It was the 15th century when Pashmina was discovered for the first time. For the first centuries, it was only the local Mughal royalty who enjoyed its warmth and sumptuous essence. But during the 18th century, these shawls spread all over the world. These were the most popular accessories around the world. With this popularity came the deceitful hands of a few traders. These traders crafted Pashmina only with pure Cashmere, but a mix of Cashmere and silk or nylon. Some sold wool shawls and claimed those to be made from Cashmere. 

To stop these dishonest practices, the government introduced the Geographical Indication (GI). It is a mark of purity on a Pashmina shawl. A GI-marked Pashmina shawl indicates that the shawl is made from pure Cashmere which has been handspun, hand woven from the finest Cashmere of Ladakhi goat 

How to Wash Pashmina?

Because Pashmina shawls are immensely delicate and gentle, their washing and cleaning are a challenge. But it is not impossible to wash these shawls at home. What one needs to do is have a wash tub, Pashmina shampoo, and lukewarm water. Simply fill a tub with lukewarm water and pour Pashmina shampoo into it. Soak the shawl in this mixture for 30 minutes. Rinse it carefully after 30 minutes and dry it (no tumble drying). 

For drying, sandwich the shawl between two clean and dry towels and roll and layers together. This gets rid of extra water. Next, place the shawl on another clean and flat surface and let it air dry for a few days till it's completely dry.

How to identify real Pashmina shawls?

If you are going to purchase a new Pashmina shawl, here is how to identify the real one. Firstly, look for the GI tag around the corners of your shawl. A Pashmina shawl with the GI tag is the safest buy. GI tag is an authentication tag that indicates the purity and originality of Kashmiri Pashmina. 

If you already own one and want to test if the same is pure or not, there are a number of tests. The first one is a burn test; you burn a fringe from a shawl, and if it gives a pungent natural hair-burning smell it is original. Also, if the fringe turns matte after burning, the shawl is original. The second test is the irregular weave test, where you hold the shawl against a light source and closely watch its weave. If the weave is irregular, the shawl is pure, as an irregular weave means the shawl has been manually processed, and no machines have been used.

The third test is the production of status electricity in which nylon and synthetic fibres produce a lot if rubbed against themselves. If you rub your shawl and it produces status electricity, drop it then and there. One more test is checking the price. Pashmina shawls are expensive, and if you find the price of a shawl “too cheap to be Pashmina'', let it go. 

Where does Pashmina come from?

Pashmina comes from Kashmir. It is the Ladakh region of this union territory that houses a rare goat species called the Changthangi goat, this goat grows fine hair on its body in the winter season, as a means to survive. This hair is lost in the moulting month of Spring, and herders collect the same. Some hair left on the body of the goat is gently combed off using specialist combs and tools. The wool is cleaned, packed, and sent to Kashmir for processing. 

In Kashmir, skillful artisans clean, spin and hand weave the wool. Thus comes into existence the world-famous luxury Pashmina shawls, scarves, wraps, and large fabrics. 

How to wear Pashmina?

There are numerous styles by which you can wear a Pashmina shawl. While traditional styles are more of those where the shawls are spread all over the apparel to flaunt the embroidery patterns or the beautiful colours, the modish versions are more creative and unique. 

• Pashmina shawls are soft, so you can wrap them around your neck, and be prepared for casual occasions. This style gives you warmth as well as oomph. 
• Another way is to drape it around the shoulders and cinch it at the waist with the help of a belt. 
• You can also let your shawl drape from one shoulder so that it remains spread and open for the observers to admire. 
• Cover your front with the entire width of the shawl and make a knot at the back. This recently discovered style looks amazing with backless dresses. 

Also read: HOW TO WEAR A PASHMINA SHAWL ELEGANTLY?

How to store Pashmina shawls?

It is always said that the way you store your Pashmina shawl this season will dictate its condition in the next. This shows how cautious the storage of these shawls is.

For storing Pashmina shawls, one has to look for a clean and dry place, most probably a shelf of your wardrobe, where no direct sunlight falls. Next, the shawl should be wrapped in a muslin cloth and not plastic bags, which tend to create moisture, and hence be a breeding place for moths. Place the shawl safely, and if possible place mothballs in the wardrobe, away from the shawl, and not too close to it. 

Are Pashmina shawls warm?

Pashmina shawls are 8 times warmer than sheep wool. Owing to this quality, these shawls are preferred over merino wool wraps. Pashmina shawls are also lightweight and fine, and even then, provide sumptuous and pleasant warmth. 

Apart from being warm, Pashmina shawls are breathable. Hence one would never feel suffocated in Pashmina, as these are super comfortable for every occasion. 

Are goats killed for Pashmina?

No, goats are not killed when the herders acquire their hair. After all, these goats are the only means of survival for the herders. 

Pashmina goats are domestic animals. And hence do not need to be forced to give off their wool. The wool is anyway lost in the moulting period, and just some portion is left on the body of the animal. This extra hair is gently combed off using specialized combs. Moreover, the goats grow the wool back before winter arrives. It is just the winter season when they need hair on their bodies and not the summer.

Is Pashmina expensive?

Owing to manual processing and the painstaking care for the animal, Pashmina stands on the most expensive side of the price scale. So much so that a shawl might cost you thousands of dollars! But as we learn and understand the making of Pashmina shawls, we believe the prices are absolutely well deserved. 

Be it rearing the animal in -40 degrees C, or the acquisition of its hair, which takes days together, the manual spinning of a gossamer fine thread, or the days-long weaving process, Pashmina is hard work personified. If post-completion, shawls are to be embroidered, then it again takes years to hand embroider shawls profusely. Thus every step needs cautious efforts and fairly difficult conditions to give rise to a single shawl.

FAQS ABOUT CASHMERE

What is Cashmere?

Cashmere is the fine wool that grows on the body of Capra Hircus/Changthangi goats. These goats are found in the Himalayan range, where they survive harsh cold temperatures and as defense grow fine hair. This hair is soft and exceptionally warm. It is manually combed off their bodies and processed into luxury shawls, scarves, sweaters, blankets, and furnishing accessories. This is Cashmere wool and is considered one of the most expensive wools in the world right now.

Where does Cashmere come from?

Cashmere comes from the body of the Capra Hircus goat. This species of the goat is found in the Himalayas region. As such countries like India, Pakistan, Iran, Afghanistan, China, Mongolia, etc, are the producers of Cashmere. The best Cashmere comes from Ladakh, North India, where the Changthangi goat grows it. Cashmere is gently combed off the bodies of these goats and is later processed to handcraft shawls, wraps, scarves, and other accessories. 

Also read: THE TRAIL OF INDIA’S CASHMERE GOAT MEN

Are Cashmere and Pashmina the same?

Cashmere is the fine wool that grows on the body of the Capra Hircus goat. The art of handcrafting luxury shawls and scarves from this fine cashmere wool is called Pashmina art. Pashmina is a term local to Kashmir, where a Persian saint was the first one to discover Cashmere wool. Hence he gave Cashmere wool a Persian name - Pashm - which literally translates to ‘soft gold’. From Pashm comes Pashmina, which is referred to as the art of transforming Pashm (Cashmere) into luxury items. Pashmina shawls from Kashmir are world-famous and have a rich history of being cherished by the European royalty

Can Cashmere wraps be washed?

Yes. Cashmere can be easily washed, albeit with a lot of precautions. Firstly, one has to invest in a good quality Cashmere shampoo. Then pour this shampoo in lukewarm water and soak Cashmere wraps in this concoction. Post 30 minutes, rinse the wrap with cold water by squeezing it between two hands, till the water runs clear. This is how one can properly wash Cashmere wraps at home. 

Cashmere just needs gentle treatment. One should make sure not to treat these with harsh detergents. One should also not rinse or wash it with harsh movements and be gentle with its handling.

Is Cashmere sustainable?

Yes. Cashmere is sustainable. And, here are some reasons why:

• Cashmere is manually acquired from the Cashmere goat which grows it in winter to survive low temperatures in the Himalayas. It is this hair that starts falling in its moulting period, with some portion remaining on its body. It is gently combed off, with no harm to the animal. Hence, the acquisition is ethical. 
• Processing of Cashmere does not employ any machine or power loom. The entire process is manual.
• Cashmere processing employs underprivileged artisans, who solely depend on it for survival. Hence, giving back to society is what Cashmere does. 

How do I care for my Cashmere wrap?

Cashmere needs care. And when we say care, we mean numerous precautions that have to be remembered once. It is not a very difficult task. 

Cashmere care starts once you buy it. Always invest in pure Cashmere. When wearing Cashmere, take care of the friction it gets. More friction will lead to piling. 

Washing Cashmere is time-consuming, as machine washing is not recommended for it. Cashmere should be washed manually by soaking it in a Cashmere shampoo and lukewarm water mixture. It should later be rinsed carefully and air-dried. Tumble drying will lead to shrinking. 

Storage of Cashmere needs care and attention. Cashmere wraps should be wrapped in a muslin cloth and stored in a clean and dry place. 

Does Cashmere pill?

Yes, it does. Cashmere is animal hair. Cashmere wraps are made from the hair of the Capra Hircus. Being natural, it is prone to pilling on regular use, and as a result of friction. If your Cashmere wrap is not pilling, then it is not pure. 

However, pilling can be undone by using Cashmere combs, fabric shavers, or lint rollers. 

Which are the major producers of Cashmere in the World?

The main producers of cashmere wool are China, Mongolia, Afghanistan, Nepal, Iran, India, Turkey, Kyrgyzstan, and other Central Asian Republics. China and Mongolia are the major producers, and both produce over 80% of the total production. The best quality Cashmere comes from Ladakh (North India). 

Is Cashmere expensive?

Yes. Compared to its counterparts or other types of wool, Cashmere is expensive. Some profusely patterned shawls can cost thousands of dollars. The high prices of Cashmere owe to their super softness, exceptional warmth, and the manual efforts of artisans who work for years together to craft a single wrap. 

Is Cashmere wool?

Wool grows on sheep only. Cashmere is goat hair. It grows on Capra Hircus goats. Hair and wool are two different types of fleece. 

Also read: DO VEGANS WEAR CASHMERE SCARF?

Perhaps if there is a synonym for luxury, it is undoubtedly Cashmere. Soft like silk to the touch, warm and pleasant like the early summer days, and elegant like no other wearable, Cashmere is one such fabric that is sure to turn heads in whichever form, colour, or pattern it is. Manually acquired threads get handwoven to make luxury apparel and wrap accessories, and these are treasured and held dear by patrons alike. It is the painstaking efforts of hundreds of skilful artisans that go into making every single Cashmere scarf or wrap. In ancient times, only the kings, queens, nobles, and affluent population could afford Cashmere. Cashmere wraps would be given by nation heads to each other as a mark of good relations between dynasties. Hence Cashmere wasn't just a piece of fabric. It was a heritage souvenir that held a high stature in the eyes of the masses.

The love for Cashmere and the invention of fakes

For these reasons, Cashmere has always been the first priority of those who are rooted in their traditions. The luxury fibre is also enshrined by those with a classic taste in fashion, who are inclined towards timeless and sophisticated styling. And since the time when Cashmere shifted from conventional styles to contemporary patterns, it's not just art patrons, but fast fashion followers who would love to have a piece of it. The demand for Cashmere went up high, just to see a slight downfall in the same.

Since Cashmere was a luxury and earned its traders huge amounts of money, it got imitated in a number of ways. Several traders grew greedy with time and planned to sell fake Cashmere fabric. This fake fabric wasn't as luxurious. In fact, the new Cashmere fabric wasn't anywhere close to the original one. New Cashmere scarves were found to be less warm and rough to the touch. Or else, these wouldn't last after a few years. This created a sense of insecurity in the common mass, as customers felt deceived. This was because their newly purchased, highly invested shawls, were nowhere close to the original art form. 

Why check a Cashmere scarf for purity?

When traders saw a rising demand for Cashmere wraps and scarves, they introduced mechanisation into the trade. Now Cashmere fibre could be processed by machines, and one wrap which took days to prepare was now ready in minutes. But how would a fine fibre as Cashmere survive machine strain? Traders added artificial strengthening fibre like silk, nylon and others to Cashmere, so that it could pass through machines easily. This type of Cashmere wasn't pure and caused the downfall of the industry. True patrons were victims of deceit by sellers, and their Cashmere scarves wouldn't last even a year due to contamination, so they quit buying and wearing Cashmere. Hence the industry took a turn towards decay.

As soon as their efforts seemed to be getting wasted, the supporters of pure Cashmere brought to light a number of tests which could be done on Cashmere, to know if they are pure or not.

Yes! Your Cashmere scarf can be impure. In fact, that might be the reason it is not as warm, as smooth, as comfy and stylish as you thought it would be. You might have invested a lot of money, energy and time to make this purchase, but still, your newly purchased piece might disappoint you. 

How is fake Cashmere made?

Fake Cashmere scarves are simply those which do not contain 100% pure Cashmere. There are many categories of fake scarves. Here is a list of them all

• The first category is Sheep wool scarves, which are, at times, used as Cashmere scarves. These are treated with chemicals which make them soft and smooth like Cashmere. This treatment decreases their life as well as shows their real face after a few washes. 
• Another category of fake Cashmere is those scarves or simply the fabric in which, along with Cashmere threads, a strengthening fibre is mixed. This category needs strengthening fibre as it has to be passed through a machine. Hence, nylon, polyester or silk is mixed with this fibre so that it is able to bear the strain of the machine (power loom in this case) used to weave. 

How is a real Cashmere Scarf made?

The making has two phases. One is the Procurement and other is the Crafting. It is known that at high altitudes, the temperature lowers to the minimum. The winters are the harshest in this region of Changhthanghi. Therefore, the Changra Goats naturally cover their bodies with thick wool to combat the harsh winters. All along the winters, the thick wool reserves the heat beneath their bodies giving them the warmth of nature. On the seasonal change in climate, the goats naturally shed off the wool with the help of coarse rocks and trees. To overcome the heat of summer, they eventually shed off the thick wool mostly from their bellies, neck region, and behind the ears. In addition, the herders also comb out the wool manually. The soft wool is Cashmere wool.

The Crafting begins in the Valley of Kashmir. After combing out the Cashmere wool, it is cleaned from the excess dust and filled in the packets to transfer to the valley of Kashmir. The Cashmere wool is sorted and undergoes several procedures in the valley itself. The cleaning, drying, and soaking make the Cashmere wool vividly clean. Afterwards, the Cashmere wool is translated to the finest fibres by the process of spinning. The yarn of fineness is transferred to the handlooms in the valley to weave the yarn into several styles of accessories. The whole process of spinning and weaving the finest Cashmere is called the Art of Pashmina. Moving along the art of Pashmina, several other processes like dyeing, printing, interweaving, and embroidering the Cashmere cater to the exclusive collection of Cashmere Scarves.

Is my Cashmere scarf Real?

To check if your Cashmere is real, here is a list of 5 tests you can carry out to check the same.

The Burn Test

The burn test is one of the most convenient tests that one can conduct at home. All one has to do is find a safe place to execute the same. One needs a matchstick or lighter, and the Cashmere product needs to be tested. 

To start the burn test, take a few fringes of your Cashmere scarf and burn them. If the smell is like that of burnt hair, your Cashmere is pure. This is because Cashmere is a natural fibre and will give off a pungent burning smell. In addition to the smell, the burnt part should feel matte and should reduce to a powdery substance. 

Uneven Weave of a Cashmere Scarf

Another easy experiment that one can conduct at home is checking the weave of a scarf. Noticing closely the weave of a scarf one might feel that pure Cashmere is flawed. But when comes to know about the beautiful reality of those irregular weaves, he truly falls in love with the masterpiece he has owned for a long time.

Perform this experiment at home. Hold the Cashmere scarf against light and notice the weave carefully. If the weave is uneven and irregular, your scarf might be pure. The uneven weave is a sign of being handcrafted. It is just machines that can weave scarves in regular patterns and in symmetry. Handmade will always leave a graceful flaw, which will tell the story of its making and being.  

Is your Cashmere glowing?

We often fall for fabrics which have an innate sheen on the surface. Such fabrics look graceful as well as extravagant on wearing. But is it true for Cashmere too? Is a seemingly polished Cashmere real or simply a gimmick to attract those who have less knowledge about the same? 

Well, the bad news is that there are chances that this gleaming is a sign of your scarf being fake. Too much shine definitely means that there is an amalgam of a foreign fibre along with your Cashmere scarf. There might be traces of silk or nylon in your Cashmere scarf that are forcing it to have a satiny glow. But this is a deceptive trick. Cashmere has to be matte. 

Does your Cashmere pill?

Who doesn't hate the mere sight of bobbles on a fabric? How shabby and withered do the fabrics look when the tiny woollen balls occupy their upper surface? Bobbles look so bad that there are a large number of tools in the market that help remove the bobbles and make your favourite shawls, sweaters and outfits smooth and clean once again. But is this the case with Cashmere? Does Cashmere pill? Is Cashmere with pilling real or fake?

Surprisingly Pure Cashmere scarves do pill. This is because these are made from natural fibres, and natural fibres always pill. If your Cashmere hasn't done so for years together, there might be nylon or silk mixed with it. Natural fibres do have a tendency to pill and with time they will do so. One can simply use tools from the market to remove these bobbles and make their PURE Cashmere scarves new again. 

The Rub Test

The easiest way to find out if your Cashmere is pure or not is by rubbing it. Take one of the ends of your Cashmere product and simply rub it with your fingers. The logic behind it is so simple. Fake, polyester adultered fabric will assemble status electricity when one rubs it. So if you rub your Cashmere scarf and it produces a tiny little spark or you hear a sound of a spark being lit, there are high chances that some polyester has been mixed with the scarf. In other words, your Cashmere scarf is not pure.

Look for the diameter of the fibre

If you have a testing lab nearby, then you are the luckiest when it comes to Cashmere testing. Lab testing is the best way to test Cashmere when looking to check the originality of a Cashmere shawl/scarf. Original Cashmere has a 12 -16 micron count when it comes to thickness. Over 16 micron-count will make a shawl thick and rough. The low micron count makes Cashmere scarves and shawls light as well as immensely warm. Hence one should visit a lab if located nearby.

Is your scarf itchy?

Often users complain about the purchase of Cashmere which was too itchy to wear. They said that suddenly they had rashes on their neck and shoulders, wherever the scarf touched their bare skin. Is this the case with Cashmere? If yes, why would one invest thousands? 

Pure Cashmere is soft and smooth. It never causes any allergic reaction to the skin. This is because Pashmina is hypoallergenic, and its loose fibres do not stick out of the base. The texture is too smooth to itch.

Warning: However, if you are already allergic to natural fibres, such as wool or silk, then there are high chances that Cashmere too will make you itchy. You can either add a lining of any synthetic fabric to it or avoid wearing it over bare skin. 

Buying a New Cashmere

Who doesn't want to buy Cashmere? Women, since the 18th century, have been totally obsessed with Cashmere scarves. It was Empress Josephine who set Cashmere scarves to timeless fashion, and since then, women, with a high fashion sense have never looked back. Even now, a large portion of women, who are true patrons of this particular art form, prefer Cashmere to anything else in the world. 

However, if you are purchasing a new Cashmere scarf, you need to be extra careful, so as to protect yourself from being deceived. Here are a few tips to keep in mind.

Check GI tag

To preserve the centuries-old art of handcrafting pure Cashmere, the Government of India (Under WTO) has established a quality check for authentic Cashmere that will identify products made from fibre of Changthangi goat. A geographical Indication (GI) Label on Cashmere is a US patent stamp on the original Cashmere fabric. If you are buying a scarf it contains the GI stamp, it is 100% pure and authentic.

To qualify for a Geographical Indication (GI), a Cashmere scarf/shawl or simply fabric needs to quality three criteria:

How to spot a GI Cashmere?

• Cashmere fibre needs to be hand spun if it needs to fall under the GI purity standards. Hand spinning involves transforming lumps of raw Cashmere wool into the fine fibre. This is done manually by womenfolk and it needs immense hard work and patience. But manually processing raw Cashmere makes it even more fine and high quality. Manually spun fibre is just 12 to 14 microns in thickness.
• Cashmere also needs to be hand woven. Hand-weaving Cashmere wraps and scarves take a few days or months, but manual weaving, with traditional handloom, makes Cashmere fabric the luxury that it is. A hand-woven Cashmere shawl or scarf, or outfit made from the same is the actual luxury that people look for. And that is why handmade Cashmere is the real GI Cashmere that is 100% real. 
• The Cashmere fibre should be under 16 microns. For a Cashmere shawl/scarf that has to be qualified to be a GI product, its fibre should be under 16-micron thickness. When the fibre is under 16-micron thickness, it naturally makes the scarf lightweight and flimsy.

The GI certification or labelling is done by Pashmina Testing & Quality Certification Centre (PTQCC), Craft Development Institute (CDI).  This lab is owned and managed by the GOI (Government of India). Labelling is done carefully, after proper testing & technical examination of all Cashmere wraps individually. 

Certificate of Authenticity

If your seller is able to produce a certificate of authenticity with the scarf that he is selling you, then the wrap is pure. Generally, shawls or scarves are tested in batches, and a single certificate is given for a large number of shawls. This is the certificate that the seller of shawls should be able to produce. If he is not, there is a high chance that he is selling you fake pieces. 

Whether you already own a Cashmere scarf or you are planning to purchase a new one, always look for the reputation of the seller. Be careful about who you buy from. Check the seller's authenticity. See his customers. You are buying a treasure. Never compromise on anything. Don't let anyone deceive you in the name of pure Cashmere. Cashmere is an investment of a lifetime. Pure Cashmere will stay for more than 25 years. It ages gracefully and acquires an heirloom status with time.

Disadvantages of owning a fake cashmere scarf

When it comes to the admirers of original Cashmere making art (the art of Pashmina), they are choosy whilst they make a purchase. But for some, buying Cashmere isn't a big deal. Even if their Cashmere scarves or shawls prove to be fake, they don't care. The only advantage that fake scarves have over original scarves is the price. And why not. If you are adding 50% nylon to 50% Cashmere, why would you even sell it for a huge price? Or if you're selling sheep wool as Cashmere, why would it cost thousands of dollars? So should everyone pick a fake Cashmere and ditch the original art?

Even though fake Cashmere might feel like a safe bet when it comes to price, it might be one of the biggest mistakes that the wearer makes. Here are the drawbacks that a fake Cashmere scarf will have when compared to an original piece. 

Why not buy a fake Cashmere scarf?

• Fake Cashmere will never feel like Cashmere. The feeling of real Cashmere is luxurious and a person naturally experiences an extravagant touch. Cashmere is handmade, and handmade goods are always different to touch. This is the case with Cashmere, and it feels exceptionally soft on the skin. Original Cashmere never causes any allergies because of a buttery smooth touch, but a fake Cashmere shawl or scarf will feel rough if there is sheep wool in it, or its quality will deteriorate after a few washes. 
• Fake Cashmere will never be warm or will be moderately warm. Some might even feel suffocating, unlike the original Cashmere. Real and pure Cashmere shawls and scarves will feel pleasantly warm, and warm enough to ditch heavy jackets and sweaters. With time, these fake pieces will lose their strength and stop providing any sort of warmth and one will have to discard them or use them for any other purpose.
• Fake Cashmere will never last as long as original Cashmere will. Original Cashmere is believed to last for over 20 years without losing a tad in its grace and heirloom looks. But a fake Cashmere definitely will prove to be a fabricated piece when it loses its looks just 2 to 3 years down the line. 
• Fake Cashmere will never carry a graceful look as an original one will. Pure Cashmere wraps or scarves look like an heirloom pieces, as if straight out of an ancient Mughal court. But fake pieces will look pretty for a few months. Especially after the first wash, fake pieces deteriorate like anything. Moreover, if you want to gift Cashmere to your loved ones, then you definitely will have to choose an original Cashmere. If the gifted piece gets damaged, it might cause remorse later.

Why should I invest in a pure Cashmere scarf?

One might ask the question, “Why should I buy real Cashmere? A large number of women buy cheap Cashmere at much less prices, and then claim that this fake piece is the same as the original one. This is absolutely false. There are many differences between pure and fake Cashmere. Here are some beautiful qualities of pure, original Cashmere that make it worth buying. 

Also read: IS MERINO WOOL BETTER THAN CASHMERE?

Why buy real Cashmere?

• Pure Cashmere looks unparalleled. Its looks communicate to the onlooker and the wearer that the piece has been picked up straight from a painting. It looks graceful, elegant and evidently luxurious. This is exactly the reason why European royals as well as Indian nobles were allured by the same and wanted to own at least one. 
• Pure Cashmere keeps one warm as the summer sun does. Shawls and scarves made from real Cashmere keep one warm enough to stop using the heavier and tucker jackets and cardigans in winter and fall. Just one Cashmere shawl or sweater keeps other layers away. This is the reason why Europeans were the first ones to prefer Cashmere over anything else, as the temperatures of most of the countries in Europe demanded warmer accessories. 
• Real Cashmere lasts for an entire lifetime. There are women who have had shawls made from real Cashmere over 20 years of age. And when asked if these shawls were withered, the women claimed that the shawls got newer as much as they used them. Real Cashmere shawls or wraps acquire an heirloom look as they get older. 
• Real Cashmere shawls or scarves are handmade. These are prepared by underprivileged artisans who work their hearts and soul, for months or years together to conjure a single piece. Hence, encouraging them, as well as this sustainable model of handcrafts is a responsible step. 
• Real Cashmere might be pricey, but it gives one a sense of luxury. Wearing real Cashmere is like pampering oneself, in the way that one looks and feels extravagant. Whether you wear Cashmere scarves to a regular office, or to lavish weddings and events, it makes you look really graceful and sophisticated. 

Our Bit for Pashmina

If it wasn't for fake Cashmere shawls and scarves, real Cashmere would never have suffered. But because fake shawls created confusion and distrust amongst the general masses, real Cashmere suffered, even though it was an asset. Hence it is more or less an obligation, especially for the patron of Cashmere, to look for real Cashmere. We need to put in our best efforts to look for real Cashmere to reap the benefits of the same. In addition, we as a platform for Pashmina have revived the essence of Pashmina to its core to make you cherish every dime of the Pashmina Accessories.

Also read: 8 REASONS TO BUY A CASHMERE SCARF NOW!

This season’s winter collection will already be out. All the colours, cool and warm will have filled the shops with their mirthful presence, looking absolutely breathtaking. And there is something for which celebrities and commoners will be looking in every nook and corner. These are the world-famous, luxury Cashmere scarves. If you haven't ever experienced the luxury of wearing a Cashmere scarf, you will not be able to understand the love and reverence women have for it. Hence we gathered from around the world 10 wonderful reasons why every woman should own at least one Cashmere scarf in her life.

Cashmere has unparalleled warmth that no other fabric can beat

 Did you know? Cashmere is 8 times warmer than ordinary sheep wool. The fibre is procured from Ladakh, where the rare Cashmere Ladakhi goat grows it as an undercoat to fight a freezing temperature of minus 40 degrees. The super soft fibre is warm enough to help them survive these harsh winter conditions. When the same wool is processed to produce Cashmere scarves, the latter are cozy and warm, and many women claim that they do not need any sweater or jacket when they wear these ethereal beauties.  

Cashmere has an unmatched softness that feels heavenly

Post procurement, the Cashmere fibre is handspun over a wooden spinning wheel which converts the lumps of animal hair to long threads. The thickness (diameter) of this thread is just 12 to 16 microns. This makes Cashmere fibre one-fourth of human hair. Because of this, scarves made from it are heavenly soft and downy. It feels cozy on the skin and does not cause allergies. This is the complaint of most women all around the world, who are wearers of wool. Women complain of itchiness caused by wool wraps, which makes Cashmere scarves a better choice.

Cashmere is blissfully lightweight, and easy to carry

A large Cashmere wrap weighs mere 450 grams. And a Cashmere scarf (200*35 cm) weighs 300 grams. This makes them exceptionally lightweight and easy to carry and style. As a result, one opts for Cashmere scarves, as a sudden rise in temperature might demand the wearer to remove them. The lightweight Cashmere makes it easy to unwrap and stored safely in a handbag. 

The lightweight of these luxury pieces makes them ideal travel partners as they take up the least space in your bags. One can even store them in handbags. 

Cashmere scarves are timeless and live long

When taken proper care of, Cashmere scarves are lifelong companions. These beautiful assets have a lifespan of over 20 years and stay with their wearers for a long time. But this surely doesn't mean that they look old or withered with time. In fact, Cashmere is such a miracle fabric that it attains an heirloom look with time, and looks even more elegant after every use. This is why we don't say “buy a Cashmere scarf” but say “invest in a Cashmere scarf”, as it is considered a lifelong investment.

Cashmere scarves are stylish and versatile

One can never look unpresentable when carrying a Cashmere scarf. The reason for such a style statement is the gorgeous looks of a Cashmere scarf. Be it a solid piece, a profusely embroidered one, a printed scarf, or a laced one, Cashmere looks ethereal in all patterns and designs. 

Cashmere scarves have adapted to all ages. There are scarves for the elderly, middle-aged, and teenage girls. These beauties suit all temperaments and moods. 

Cashmere scarves are Handmade

Something made by hand is always full of love and emotions, besides being of the best quality. Cashmere scarves are handcrafted, exactly from procurement to the completion of the final product. Its acquisition is manual, spinning is manual, weaving is manual, and any adornments are manual too. Hence there is no inference of machine in the entire process of crafting these luxury scarves. 

Handmade gifts are loved by all. Hence Cashmere scarves are the perfect gifts to be given even to those who have everything. 

Cashmere scarves are sustainable

Can we love something that is harmful to the environment or its people? Never! This is the reason we recommend Cashmere to women. The procurement of Cashmere is cruelty-free, its processing is devoid of machines, and it helps empower its artisans, who work tirelessly to complete each design. Cashmere is recyclable, and its sales take care of artisan families, who are in great need of the same. 

Note: Many believe that Cashmere procurement is cruel, as the goats are killed to acquire Cashmere from their bodies. This is not true. In the moulting season, the Cashmere goat loses its body hair naturally, and some portion of it, which remains on the body, is gently combed off by its herders, using specialized tools. This process is pain-free and does not harm the animal whatsoever. 

Also read: DO VEGANS WEAR CASHMERE SCARF?

Cashmere has been the choice of the royals

Cashmere scarves are heritage pieces, which have been the first choice of royals and the affluent for centuries. The style icon of France, Empress Josephine, too, was fond of these beauties and owned more than a hundred pieces. 

It was the 15th century when a Persian traveler discovered Cashmere for the first time in Ladakh. A pair of socks made from this high-quality wool was gifted to the then-king, and the processing of Cashmere started during his reign. When Cashmere scarves came into existence, only the affluent and the men and women from noble courts would buy and wear them. Even now, the admirers of ancient art, the affluent or the high society fashion icons prefer these exquisite scarves to wool ones. 

We would love to recommend every single woman invest in at least one Cashmere scarf in her life. However, we would also like to inform you that the benefits of Cashmere can only be reaped if the scarf is made from pure, 100% original Cashmere fibre. There are scarves made from 70% Cashmere, and 30% silk or nylon, which do not provide enough warmth and last for just a year. Pure Cashmere will, on the other hand, wrap you in heavenly coziness and last for an entire lifetime. 

Also read: IS CASHMERE THE SAME AS PASHMINA?

When I wear a silk scarf I never feel so definitely like a woman, a beautiful woman

~Audrey Hepburn 

A symbol of femininity, scarves are one of those accessories which evoke a sense of docility apart from looking sophisticated and elegant. These can be worn as a necessity to keep oneself warm, or as a fashion accessory. Hence these come in a number of shapes and sizes and patterns to seamlessly blend into the wardrobes of any woman. This also shows how versatile a scarf is because it pairs so well with any outfit. As patrons of these luxury accessories, we delve into their history, origins and current trends. 

The soft, silky undercoat of Cashmere goats, which are mostly found in the highlands of Mongolia, India, and Nepal, is used to make the opulent Cashmere scarf. Cashmere is one of the most sought-after natural fibers in the world because of its unmatched warmth, softness, and lightweight texture. Thoroughly combing the goats during their natural molting season yields the fibers, which are then spun into thin threads to make breathable and insulating scarves. In contrast to ordinary wool, cashmere is incredibly soft on the skin, which makes it the perfect material for scarves that offer warmth without being heavy or irritating.

Rich in texture and ideal for both formal and informal settings, cashmere scarves are prized for their ageless elegance. Sophisticated touches are added to any outfit with their many styles, which range from basic solid colors to highly patterned motifs. Because of their inherent ability to retain heat without being heavy, they are ideal for cold climates. A Cashmere scarf that has been well-maintained can soften even more with time and gain even more luxury. An elegant and comfortable statement, a Cashmere scarf looks great draped over the shoulders or wrapped snuggly around the neck.

Origin of The Scarf

To find the origins of the scarf, history took us to ancient Egypt, where a famous queen was the first to don a scarf. She is believed to wear it as a head scarf. But in those times it wasn't only women who wore scarves, nowadays the maximum users of scarves are women. In those times men and women alike were equal audiences to scarves and knew ways to wear them in the most elegant ways. It is believed that in ancient Rome, men used scarves to dry their sweat before the accessories became a trend. 

In the East, scarves are believed to be worn by military personnel to show their ranks. It is during this time that Napoleon gifted his wife a Cashmere scarf. While she was sceptical to wear it or give it away, later she is believed to own over 400 Cashmere scarves in her entire life. However, the journey was long, and it wasn't an overnight success like current fast fashion trends are. These accessories took their time to spread wings around the globe and fruitfully did so. 

Introduction of Cashmere Scarves 

Scarves made from the soft and delicate undercoat of cashmere goats, which are mostly derived from the Himalayan regions of Mongolia, India, and Nepal, are a symbol of eternal elegance. Ladakhi cashmere is the finest of all. During the natural shedding season, the fibers—which are prized for` their exceptional softness and warmth—are carefully gathered, spun into fine threads, and weaved into lightweight, insulating scarves. Cashmere, in contrast to typical wool, has a buttery-smooth texture that makes it the perfect material for scarves that hug the skin without causing irritation. Cashmere scarves have long been a favorite among people looking for style and coziness throughout the winter months because of its reputation for providing warmth without adding weight.

Beyond their usefulness, cashmere scarves are praised for their timeless design and adaptability. They are available in an extensive variety of patterns and colors, ranging from intricate patterns to basic monochrome forms. A Cashmere scarf lends refinement to any ensemble, whether it is worn casually or in formal wear. These scarves are a long-lasting investment in addition to being a statement of luxury due to the fibers' inherent durability and capacity to soften further over time. Because of this, cashmere scarves are treasured all around the world for its unparalleled blend of warmth, softness, and style.

When Cashmere scarves were introduced in the 18th century, they became the epitome of high fashion among women. The paisley motif was especially famous when it came to Cashmere, as a town in Scotland named ‘Paisley’ was the first town to manufacture like those owned by Josephine (wife of Napoleon). Paisley was home to over 5000 weavers and the wraps that they manufactured were much more popular in those times. In the latter half of the 19th century, however, the shawl and scarf trend experienced a decline, as women's wardrobes emerged otherwise. 

Use in Wars

What started as a hobby for women, became an essential service later. Knitting scarves by women was now a duty of women whose knit scarves were sent to soldiers in wars to keep them warm and safe during wartime. It was more of a patriotic duty than just a hobby they carried out in their free time. It is surprising to know that what is nowadays considered an old-fashioned hobby would have saved the lives of a large number of soldiers fighting for their country. Troops fighting in harsh, cold and wet conditions were supplied with these knit scarves, which they cherished and craved badly during wartime.

It is said that pilots used to wear white silk scarves to keep their necks from irritation. The softness and smooth texture of silk would prevent the skin from chafing. During the first world war, silk played a major role, as silk bags were used during wars. After the wars, these silk bags were converted to either garments or scarves. 

From Necessity to Fashion

As the trends of silk rolled out all over the west, many clothing brands started their own offerings in silk. Brands designed lightweight silk scarves that were again the need of the hour for the war-based nations. The eclectic prints and colours used in these uplifted the moods of soldiers whose homelands had turned to battlefields.

In the year 1937, it was Hermes, a fashion brand which imported Chinese silk and transformed it into opulent square silk scarves. Chinese silk was considered more durable and strong. The same designs are still used in Hermes scarves, along with the 90cm * 90cm size and hand-painted details. 

The only problem with silk was that they were quite expensive for the majority of the population. Hence a new fabric emerged in the 1930s. It was called rayon or Viscose and could emulate silk easily. It was hence called artificial silk because it was exactly like silk, but not even half of its price!

The trend of silk scarves continued to prosper till the outbreak of the second world war. During this period, scarves suddenly vanished as women took odd jobs, like those of men. Women started to work in factories where luxurious accessories had no place. They were forced to wear fit clothes, and it was ensured that not even their long luscious hair would show. Colours used for clothing women were dull pastel shades, and materials used were inexpensive cotton and linens. 

Scarves after the War

After the second world war, the fashion world cherished the brilliant coloured scarves used once. During this time, pattern scarves made their way into the fashion world. Ascher - a textile company, introduced several designs from leading designers around the world. Around 50 artists contributed and introduced some innovative scarves on rayon fabric because other fabrics faced shortages post-war. These were called “Artists Squares”. 

Silk Scarves Reintroduced in Fashion World

Silk scarves were postponed less and they quickly reemerged in the fashion world. The material itself was full of sheen and the colours over it looked even more brilliant and warm. Hermes again grew in popularity, and celebrities like Audrey Hepburn and Grace Kelly were seen donning silk scarves in their movies. Many celebrities chose the Hermes Silk scarves themselves whenever they marched down the streets of New York. Hence the silk scarves gained popularity again, and soon became a symbol of elegance, power and femininity. 

It was Hermes alone who gained the most notoriety. Whilst Audrey Hepburn wore these scarves around her neck, other celebrities wore these as headbands. Grace Kelly would wear Hermes silk scarves, at times, as arm slings. Even Queen Elizabeth II was spotted wearing her Hermes silk scarf on the famous postage stamp.

During this time, scarves were more playfully designed. Not only them, but even outfits captured the optimism and depicted women as cheerful and good-natured. Head scarves were specially chosen by the rich and famous women to showcase this luxury piece, besides giving them privacy when needed. With large sunglasses and the headscarf, celebrities and rich women often kept a level of anonymity when they didn't want to be seen in public.

The popularity of silk did not remain confined to the rich only. In 1930, a famous restaurant in New York started giving away customised silk scarves to their regular customers. The designs kept changing year to year, and these luxury accessories still remain iconic in terms of collectables and are much sought after. 

Scarves as Luxury Adornments

Many big brands in these times transferred their signature styles to scarves so as to enjoy the same feel in accessorising. For example, the famous Burberry tartan check was now featured in scarves, and women who couldn't afford a Burberry trench coat could not buy a scarf instead, just to own the signature check. This step was crucial in a marketing sense, as it gave these brands more recognition and acceptance all over the world. It also gave women a chance to show off their purchases with big brands. 

Scarves made of cashmere are the height of luxury accessories, prized for their unrivaled warmth, softness, and classic style. These scarves, which are made from the finest Cashmere goat fibers, have an aura of refinement that is unmatched by most other textiles. The silky undercoat is harvested with care, and then expert weaving and finishing turn the basic material into a sophisticated neckwear that flows naturally. The blend of Cashmere's inherent insulating qualities and feather-light texture results in a scarf that is both elegant and comfortable, providing warmth without adding bulk and a softness that becomes better with time.

Cashmere scarves are luxurious accessories that are frequently viewed as status symbols because they combine exquisite craftsmanship and exclusivity. They may be worn with anything, from a dressy evening gown to a casual winter coat, thanks to their adaptability. Their rich texture and delicate gloss enhance any ensemble. Their sturdiness guarantees that they will be a valued item for years to come. They are available in a number of designs, from simple solids to intricately patterned pieces, to suit a variety of tastes. Cashmere scarves are desirable accessories in any discriminating wardrobe because they are more than just useful items—they represent an investment in classic elegance.

Similarly, Chanel used chains in their scarves to imitate the chains used in their bags. They made most of the 80's bold and confident fashion trends. These designs remained memorable, not just then but even now. 

Scarves decline in the ’90s

With a large number of cheaper alternatives emerging in the 90s, silk started declining and made space for alternatives. The same bright and vivid designs could be printed on these cheaper materials and that too at the fraction of the prices of doing the same on silk. The processes, as well as dyes used for these alternatives, proceed cheaper. Hence, silk lost the battle to those accessories which didn't look and feel luxurious like silk, but was more innovative and less expensive. Now silk scarves were no longer a must-have for women's wardrobes and soon vanished from the limelight.

It was during this time that travel eased much. The majority of the population did travel to far-off places and this was the case with fashion influencers too. Designers took inspiration from fashions and trends all over the world and tried reviving some designs from the past. For example, Pashmina shawls, which were worn by only the rich and affluent, were transformed into daily wear accessories for then-modern women. Now Cashmere scarves were a practical adornment and not just a flaunt-worthy accessory. 

The Rise of Cashmere

Cashmere scarves gained hyper impetus, as they were unmatched in quality till this period. They were considered unique and rare, owing to them being handcrafted out of wool from Cashmere goats reared in the Ladakh region of Kashmir. Their exclusive weaves, fine texture, smooth pattern and exceptional warmth attracted a large following. 

Pashmina comes from “Pashm” which literally translates to “soft gold” in the Persian language. Pashmina is the art of handcrafted luxury fabric out of Cashmere wool. The Cashmere goats are reared by nomadic tribes in Ladakh, who live at high altitudes that witness temperatures as low as -40 degrees C. For this reason, the Cashmere goat grows a fine undercoat that keeps them warm in winter. As temperatures rise in Spring, the coat is shed as a result of moulting, and this wool is collected to craft Cashmere scarves, Pashmina shawls and more.

It was these Cashmere scarves whose fashion rose to its zenith in the 90s. These were a woman's best friends in colder seasons. When clothing changed and sleeveless dresses were in, it was Cashmere scarves which covered the bare arms and chests of queens and women from noble courts. 

Modernisation of Scarves

As time went by, scarves too became contemporary. They adapted to new styles which could blend into fast lives. The ever-changing demand of the fashion industry forced clothing and accessories to change. As a result, brands reinvented their products. For example, Hermes reintroduced the scarves in a twill pattern and called it a ‘twilly’. These were often worn around the straps of handbags, as they were long and thin or around the wrists of women as bracelets or simply arm accessories. They were also used as headbands or hair ties with brilliant colours and prints. Very recently, Twilly scarves are seen being used as belts fastened around waists. 

In a similar way, Cashmere scarves too were revamped. These were not just plain or embroidered now, but featured a large number of contemporary patterns. Cashmere scarves were reintroduced in tartan checks, plaids, laced ones, modish prints and patterns and chic ombre dyes. These were made available and feasible for everyday use, as opposed to their earlier uncommon wear. Printed and patterned Cashmere scarves could be used as everyday accessories in colder seasons, as they were travel friendly as well as comparatively inexpensive. Initially, when discovered in the 18th century, these could not be afforded by commoners. But the modernisation of the same made it economical and pocket friendly. Nowadays, Cashmere scarves have modernised even more, and many additional patterns can be seen featured in these scarves. The Swarovski studded Cashmere scarf is a recent innovation, and these look breathtakingly beautiful. 

Also read: 5 EASY WAYS TO WEAR A CASHMERE WRAP

Why do we believe Cashmere scarves are the best?

While commonly scarves of different materials are worn for different occasions, Cashmere scarves are such accessories which suit all needs and occasions. The reason for their versatility is perhaps the way they have adapted to modern needs. Hence, this timelessness and conformability of these make us believe that these might be the best option for women today. Men and women of every age can wear Cashmere scarves on different occasions. Therefore, today, we have Cashmere scarves for your 10-year-old to wear to a casual occasion, as well as traditional pieces for your granny to wear to a wedding. And while there exists every kind of Cashmere scarf for women, there are even more luxurious pieces for men. Men look exceptional in Kani scarves, embroidered Cashmere wraps and the most minimal solid Cashmere scarves.

If you are planning to buy a scarf, we believe that Cashmere might be the best choice. Be it the softness that is as luxurious as the most expensive silk, its smooth like butter texture, its immense warmth that caresses one like the summer sun, or the exceptionally stylish variation, Cashmere stands out as the winner for winters, spring and fall.

Also read: MAKING OF PASHMINA SHAWLS

Cashmere Scarf and Sustainable Fashion

In the sustainable fashion movement, scarves—especially those crafted from natural fibers like cashmere—have become essential pieces. Scarves made with eco-friendly, biodegradable materials are in line with the ideals of sustainable fashion, which focuses on minimizing the impact on the environment and encouraging ethical manufacturing processes. For example, goats that naturally lose their undercoats provide cashmere, which is a sustainable and ethical fiber. Cashmere scarves support a more conscientious fashion business when they are made using ethical labor standards and sustainable farming methods. Natural Cashmere decomposes naturally, making it a more environmentally responsible option than synthetic fibers, which can take hundreds of years to do so.

Scarves are classic items that frequently go beyond cyclical trends, adding to the longevity of fashion in addition to their sustainable material. Reducing the need for frequent purchases and limiting textile waste, a well-made scarf—especially in classic designs—can be worn year after year without losing its appeal. Purchasing premium scarves manufactured from eco-friendly materials not only helps traditional methods-based craftspeople but also promotes a more deliberate and leisurely pace of fashion. This durability is in contrast to the fast fashion business model, where products are usually thrown out after a little period of use, adding to the trash in landfills.

Concluding

We are totally mesmerised by the versatility and functionality of scarves. Our love affair with these accessories might never end, as the possibilities of it being a must-have seem endless. Be it solid pieces, prints, embroideries, or be it made from silk, Cashmere, wool or rayon, we just can't get enough of them. These fine accessories mutate from one form to another with such grace and dignity that we are left speechless, wanting more. Other than being our favourite article of comfort and protection, they uplift the style quotient in a jiffy. Whether you wear it as a headscarf, bag accessory, alternative to bracelets (Twilly), or a protective wrap when the winter chills hit you, scarves will remain the uncrowned king of accessorizing, as they were then. 

Be your own stylist and wear these versatile accessories in whatever style you want. After all, haven't audiences been the best inspirations for designers? Wear the one that suits your mood, temperament, the weather and the occasion and look the best version of yourself.

Also read: THE LEGENDS OF A KASHMIRI SHAWL

Luscious, luxurious, and exceptionally soft, Cashmere is one of those fabrics which one wants to feel more than wear. But many of us did not yet get a chance to do so. So we take you on the journey of how Cashmere feels, how it is made, and where it comes from. 

A lot more expensive, unique, and super comfy - Cashmere is one of the fabrics which has possessed royal admiration for centuries. But why is the fibre such a prized one, and why does Cashmere wrap stay with one for a lifetime? And if it is animal wool, why doesn't it feel itchy on the skin? All of these questions have risen from the customer end as the takers of Cashmere have always shown keen interest in the acquisition and processing of this fine wool. Everyone wonders about the finesse of this luxury fibre and hence remains curious about its source. At the same time, one feels that shawls and scarves made from any animal fibre would definitely feel itchy. Then why should one spend thousands of dollars to purchase a wrap that causes itch to their most delicate skin parts like the neck, back, shoulders etc? 

History in Europe

Historically, Cashmere has been one of the most popular fibre types when it came to fashion. Women who were remembered as fashion divas in their times preferred Cashmere scarves to all other accessories. This was 18th century Europe and Cashmere came to be known as the finest and the most luxurious fabric of all times. 

Is Cashmere Itchy? If yes, Why is Cashmere itchy? These are some vital questions that one should get answers to, before going out shopping for Cashmere. Let’s know it all!

Where does Cashmere come from?

Cashmere comes from the Himalayas, where the rare Cashmere goats are found scattered in different regions. These Cashmere goats are believed to grow the best quality Cashmere.  Owing to the Himalayas being the centre point of Cashmere production, Cashmere producing regions are Mongolia, China, Iran, Afghanistan, Pakistan, and India. The finest Cashmere is produced by the Ladakhi goat, found in North India. It is the area of Changthang, which has a freezing temperature of -40 degrees C, where the goat resides. Since the temperatures are freezing in winter, nature blesses the goat with Cashmere, which is warm enough to keep it safe and comfortable all the cold season long.

The soft, fine, and luxurious fibre of Cashmere come from the prized Changthangi goats. These goats are rare and exotic. It grows luxury fine fleece over its body, which is later processed to become Cashmere sweaters, shawls, wraps, scarves, mufflers, socks and other accessories. 

Acquiring Cashmere

It is the Spring season, and the warmth of Cashmere makes the goat uncomfortable. As a result, it rubs its body against coarse surfaces and gets rid of some portion of the same. Wool from the goat is hence found around its occupying places. Shrubs, stones, walls and the ground, all are filled with goat hair. All of this spread-out wool is collected, yet there is still some amount left on the body. The left-out wool is professionally combed off gently, using specialized combs and tools. All of this is packed in small packets and processed manually later. 

Cashmere, from Ladakh, is processed in Kashmir, and this is the place where Europeans saw it first. From Kashmir, large exports of Cashmere products took place in the 18th to 19th centuries. Even now, Kashmir has the finest quality Cashmere. Shawls made from Ladakhi Cashmere are world-famous, and Europeans still swoon over this specific quality. This has been so since the early 18th century when Europeans first heard of this magnificent fabric.

Processing of this fine wool

If there is something that makes Cashmere the excellent fibre that it is, it is the processing it goes through to become a final wearable. The art of transforming raw Cashmere wool to complete products is called Pashmina. Pashmina is an art that was started in Kashmir by a Persian Saint, and because of him, the art was given a Persian name. (Pashm translates to ‘soft gold’ in Persian).

Before processing, the procurement of Cashmere is itself a challenge. Earlier one had to manually travel to Ladakh and procure the fine threads. But with travel ease, Cashmere reaches the valley in bulk, where specialist hands await.

Cashmere is combed by specialised tools in the springtime, which is the moulting season for the goats. It is the time when the goat is naturally losing its undercoat. This is raw Cashmere, and it comes from the goat’s belly, the underside of the throat, and behind the ears. Wool is collected in small pouches and it is later cleaned thoroughly to separate guard hair and other dirt attached to it. 

Steps to process Cashmere - the Finest Animal Hair

It takes a number of steps to process Cashmere in order to make it wearable for its takers. It all starts with the acquisition of fibre from Ladakh. The herders of the Cashmere-producing goat have to wait all year for early spring-summer. This is the time, from March to April, when Cashmere goats are ready to lose all their hair. Temperatures are already high at the altitudes, especially where Cashmere goats graze, and the hair becomes intolerable. This is the time when herders realise that it's time to collect the hair from their bodies. 

After collecting the hair from the goats’ bodies, herders keep them in small pouches. This is the material that goes in bulk to its processors. From Ladakh, fine Cashmere goes in bulk to Kashmir, where different artisans await its arrival. 

Processing Cashmere

To start with, Cashmere is cleaned. For this, women join hands and begin with washing the lumps of wool. This process is immensely hard and takes a lot of patience to do. Lumps of wool are cleaned, getting rid of any foreign materials like dirt, dust, vegetable waste or any waste that attaches itself to the goat’s body. Raw Cashmere is now clean, ready to meet another set of artisans. 

Spinning is another activity which comes immediately after cleaning. Raw wool is in lumps and is partially sorted during the cleaning process. Now, womenfolk take it for spinning, which is again done manually over a spinning wheel. The wheel assists the artisans to transform lumps of wool into delicate fibres. These fibres are super gentle and flimsy, such that one can even break them with fingers. To meet the high-quality standards that Cashmere is world-famous for, the diameter of the spun yarn has to be 12-16 microns only (a human hair has an average diameter of 50 microns). This wondrous fibre even has an insulating capability, which makes the finished product three times more insulating than sheep wool. 

Weaving the spun fibre

Post spinning, when rolls of Cashmere fibre are ready, weavers await its further processing. To start with, the fibre is stretched which expands it to its maximum capability. Post stretching, it is taken to a processing unit, where it is mounted over a wooden handloom. Artisans sit one or two individuals at a time, over the handloom, and in 3 to 4 days process the fibre. A shawl is complete in a few days, a scarf takes 2 or 3 days, whereas a men's shawl takes about a week. 

Expensive? Why not!

China, Mongolia, and Nepal are the producers of 90% of the total Cashmere in the world. Only 10% come from India and other Asian countries. The finest Cashmere is obtained from the Capra haircuts species of goats found in the Ladakh region of Kashmir, India. The annual yield from one Changthangi goat is roughly 150 grams. This makes the wool quite rare. For a large-sized women’s shawl, (200*100 cms), fleece from at least 3 to 4 goats is required. The same is required for a thin full-sized Cashmere cardigan. A goat that has the capacity to yield higher amounts might be chosen to prepare large sweaters, and if the quality has to be the best, then the goat’s underbelly fibre is chosen. 

Perhaps now we know that the high prices of Cashmere are very well deserved. Be it the labour-intensive process of acquiring and processing the raw fibre, the low yield per goat, or the exceptional softness and warmth of the final product, Cashmere is indeed the king of fibres. 

Why should we invest in it?

There are so many reasons why we should own at least one Cashmere product in our lifetime. While women might be indifferent to it because of its price, or dubious about its quality, there are plenty of them who are just curious. So we give them some good reasons to buy Cashmere today.

It is warmer than wool?

Why invest in a thick woollen scarf or sweater, when you can be more comfortable with a lightweight, fine Cashmere one? Yes, Cashmere is eight times warmer than sheep wool, and lighter in weight too. This makes it the first preference while shopping for winter.

It is breathable

Despite being one of the warmest products in the world, Cashmere is quite breathable. One would never feel too hot in a Cashmere product, as it has great insulating properties. 

Is Cashmere Itchy?

This question surprised us too. When one of our customers asked us “Is Cashmere itchy?”, we were startled, because there is nothing as soft and smooth as Cashmere. As compared to sheep wool, Cashmere is far less itchy. We will discuss this topic in detail later. 

What does it feel like?

Cashmere has a heavenly feel. It has exceptional softness and it is lightweight and downy. It gives a person that kind of experience which he/she probably hasn't felt before. Once you wear it, you will forget about all the luxuries the world has.

How to Care for Cashmere?

A Cashmere wrap has to be cared about like a baby. From the way you wear it to its washing, drying, and storing, everything is to be done with proper precaution and care.

As far as washing is concerned it is better to wash this luxury fabric with your hands. Simply fill a tub with lukewarm water and a Cashmere shampoo. If you're short of the same, a mild baby shampoo too will work. Soak the product in for 30 seconds and then rinse with cold water. Do not wring

Drying Cashmere has to be natural. Just put your sweater/ wrap over a dry towel and roll the towel to absorb the water from it. Replace this wet towel with a new dry one, and let the gentle fabric air dry naturally

Storing your valued wrap or scarf again has to be a responsible process. The place where you store your precious piece has to be clean, dry, and disinfected. Do not store it in plastic as plastic helps grow moisture. Instead wrap it in large tissue papers, to keep it dry and safe. 

Some important precautions to keep in mind

Briefly, these are the steps to care for a Cashmere scarf post its season:

• Wash the Cashmere in lukewarm water. Cold water won't clean it properly and hot water will ruin its shape and texture
• Never dry Cashmere directly in sunlight. Never hang it whilst drying. These mistakes might cost you your super pricey piece of accessory. Hanging will tamper its shape permanently. Air drying your Cashmere accessories is the best way to go. 
• Make sure your Cashmere scarf or shawl is completely dry before you store it. If any amount of moisture remains, the scarf will be lost forever. Moisture is the biggest enemy when it comes to natural fibres. 
• Ironing a shawl/scarf is complicated. One cannot directly bring an iron in contact with Cashmere. Either one has to use a steam iron, or a dry iron can be used without direct contact with the fabric. Placing a cotton sheet in between Cashmere and the dry iron is the way to iron Cashmere when it is needed.

Storing Cashmere

• Storing Cashmere is in itself a task. When properly stored, Cashmere looks as fresh as new the next season. But if any carelessness is shown with regard to storage, your precious scarf/shawl will be ruined forever. One has to look for a clean and dry place that is away from direct sunlight. Moisture, in any way, will damage the fibre. 
• Always avoid stacking Cashmere shawls/scarves or sweaters over each other. This causes friction which damages the surface. Instead, try placing an acid-free tissue paper in between the folds and between two consecutive shawls so that the surface remains tension free. 
• Always check for any stains before you store the Cashmere for the next season. The stains will deepen their effects on the fine fabric. Hence, the shawl/scarf should be cleaned off any dirt or even a small spot before wearing it next year.

Can a Cashmere Wrap Stretch?

Yes, Cashmere can stretch and get disfigured. This is the reason why it should not be wrung after washing. Also, a Cashmere wrap should not be hung from a hanger, as it has more drape than bounce. As such, it does not return to its original form. Instead, it should be stored in a drawer in a folded position, or else hanging will pull it down due to gravity and it will get deformed forever. 

If your Cashmere has stretched for some reason, wash it in lukewarm water, reshape it, and dry it flat. There is a possibility that it might regain its original shape.

Why does Cashmere feel itchy?

If Cashmere is still feeling itchy in your body, you might have an allergy when it comes to animal fibre. There are a lot of individuals in the world who are allergic to all-natural fibres. You might be one of them. Many such individuals believe that only fake Cashmere is itchy, but when they shop for pure pieces, they wonder why is 100% Cashmere itchy, if it is purest. Well, pure Cashmere will be especially itchy if you are allergic to natural animal hair. Fake or mixed Cashmere will feel better to them.

It is highly essential to test Cashmere against your skin if you are planning to buy one. Rub the inside of Cashmere against your neck or other sensitive parts of your body. If you feel a rash coming up or an immediate itch, then Cashmere will definitely not suit you. If, however, Cashmere has swooned you and you anyway want to wear it, you can cover it underneath with cotton or silk layering. Or else, wear an organic cotton layer underneath your Cashmere sweaters or shawls if you're prone to itchiness.

Is Cashmere really itchy?

No. It's not. Even newborn babies are wrapped in small-sized Cashmere wraps, and their delicate skin doesn't suffer from any negative reaction. So if your Cashmere is feeling scratchy or irritating, there might be a bigger problem to tackle.

Nevertheless, the texture of Cashmere is so soft and gentle and doesn't cause an itch on the skin. One might feel itchy in woollens, but the softness of Cashmere will definitely amaze them

Which fabric is itchy?

Cashmere vs Wool is a big topic that has to be clearly understood. The difference between Cashmere and wool is that between animal hair and wool. Wool is exclusively collected from sheep, but animal hair comes from goats, alpacas, llamas and others. Wool helps animals to protect their bodies from rain, snow and other external factors, but animal hair keeps the animal warm. Its primary use is keeping the animal warm when conditions aren't much suitable for them to bear. 

Cashmere is animal hair and wool is sheep wool that comes from merino and other types of sheep. Animal hair is softer than sheep wool and is hence preferred when it comes to apparel. 

Even Though wool is cheaper than Cashmere, it is the roughness of wool that makes it the second choice. Sheep wool can be itchy and pretty uncomfortable when it comes to touching the bare skin. When closely observed under a microscope, wool fibres have something strange in them. They are not smooth like perhaps they should have been. Under a microscope, rough edges can be seen, and these are the enemies that rub against the skin and cause itchiness. This causes mild to severe irritation depending upon the type of skin its wearer has. 

The Luxury of Cashmere

That is about the feel and experience that a Cashmere gives you. It is a luxury fabric that comes from the mighty Himalayan ranges to your wardrobes, after treading a painstaking path. Exactly from its procurement to its finish, your lavish product passes through the hands of a hundred craftsmen, who put their heart and soul into detailing it. It is their love and care that makes it extra special, and worthy of every effort spent to have it. 

For the most ardent patrons of Cashmere, having the same is nothing less than a dream come true.  The way it looks, the way it feels, and the way it keeps one away from the gelid cold days of the winter season are simply awe-inspiring. A Large Cashmere shawl weighs just 400 plus grams and that is one of the most amazing features of this luxury accessory. A lightweight shawl so warm that one doesn't need to layer in heavy blankets and jackets. 

Also read: IS MERINO WOOL BETTER THAN CASHMERE?

Not just shawls and scarves

Cashmere fibre has recently been used in making throws and baby blankets and this should itself tell people around the world about its finesse and smooth texture, besides its warmth. Cashmere blankets are super lightweight yet warm and this makes them a favourite. Baby blankets are cosy enough to keep even days-old babies comfy. Hence Cashmere is for everyone - Timeless and Ageless.

When Cashmere was introduced for the first time in Kashmir, it was Europeans, who became the most obsessed with it. High demands from Europe and people themselves visiting the valley made it clear to the world that Kashmir had given birth to the most luxurious accessory of all times. Even now, Cashmere holds the same stature around the globe, which makes it a must-have for admirers of traditional fashion and style. 

Also read: IS CASHMERE THE SAME AS PASHMINA?

Conclusion

In conclusion, is cashmere itchy? The answer largely depends on the quality of the cashmere and how it's processed. High-quality cashmere, known for its fine, soft fibers, is typically not itchy and is revered for its luxurious feel against the skin. However, lower-grade cashmere or blends that include other fibers might not offer the same level of comfort and could cause irritation for those with sensitive skin.

When considering a cashmere purchase, it's important to prioritize quality and craftsmanship to ensure that your experience with this luxurious fabric is as comfortable as it should be. By choosing well-made, pure cashmere garments, you can avoid the potential itchiness associated with inferior products.

Ultimately, is cashmere itchy? It shouldn't be if you invest in authentic, high-quality cashmere. This fabric is celebrated for its softness and warmth, making it a cherished material for those who appreciate comfort and luxury in their clothing.