About Cashmere
To say we love cashmere is an understatement.
Soft, luxurious, and effortlessly beautiful, cashmere is a natural fibre that has woven its way into our hearts. It inspires every piece we create, from timeless knitwear to everyday essentials designed to be cherished for years.
While many people experience "love at first touch", the origins and unique qualities of cashmere are just as captivating. Here is a simple guide to help you understand what makes this fibre so special and why it is at the heart of every Elle & Riley garment.
What Is Cashmere?
Cashmere is one of the rarest and most sought-after natural materials in the world.
Ethically sourced from the fine undercoat of the Cashmere Goat, this fibre is nature's way of providing warmth and insulation in cold, harsh climates. The soft undercoat grows between June and December and naturally sheds as temperatures rise in April and May. During this time, the fibre can be gently combed from the goat by hand and collected for use in luxurious textiles.
Its scarcity is a major part of what makes cashmere so precious. A single goat produces only 1 to 200 grams of usable fibre each year, which means around four goats are needed to create just one women's sweater. Combined with a refinement process that can involve more than twenty individual steps, cashmere's rarity adds to its value and desirability.
Today, this remarkable fibre is used to craft premium garments all around the world.
Why Cashmere?
There are many reasons to choose cashmere, from its softness and warmth to its light weight and versatility.
Soft and Cosy
Cashmere fibres measure only 16 to 18 micrometres in diameter, making them incredibly fine. Their natural structure allows them to lie smoothly together, preventing irritation and creating that unmistakable silky, cloud-like feel. Nothing else compares.
Luxurious and Elegant
Cashmere is a premium fibre that requires care, time, and craftsmanship to produce. Collected by hand and refined through a detailed process, each garment represents significant skill and attention. The result is a fabric that drapes beautifully, looks refined, and feels truly special to wear.
Versatile and Timeless
A quality cashmere piece never goes out of style. Lightweight layers are perfect for warmer months, while thicker knits offer comfort during winter. Cashmere adapts effortlessly to the season and the outfit, whether you are dressing up or down.
Quality varies, and not all cashmere is the same. Everything from the region where the goats live to the care taken in production influences the final result. At Elle & Riley, we source our fibre from Himalayan goats, known for producing some of the world's finest cashmere. Our ethical and sustainable practices ensure every piece meets the highest standards.
Warm and Insulating
Cashmere is naturally insulating and can be up to eight times warmer than wool. It is one of nature's finest fibres for comfort and protection in cooler temperatures.
Breathable and Comfortable
Despite its warmth, cashmere is incredibly light and breathable. Its hollow fibres help regulate your temperature by keeping you warm in winter and comfortable through milder weather. It is also hypoallergenic, as it contains no lanolin, making it ideal for sensitive skin.
Long Lasting and Special
A well cared for cashmere garment only improves with age. In a world of fast fashion, we believe in creating pieces that last season after season and can be treasured for years. Our care products and guide help you protect each Elle & Riley garment so it remains beautiful for a long time to come.
These are just some of the reasons we are so passionate about this remarkable natural fibre. Today, we proudly craft some of the finest cashmere garments available in New Zealand and beyond. To explore our full range or learn more, visit our website or one of our Elle & Riley stores or stockists.
