How to Buy a Cashmere Wool Sweater

Quality cashmere wool sweaters provide a luxurious feeling and comfortable warmth as well as style. Cashmere wool is made from the soft natural fibers of the Cashmere goat. These goats have two layers in their fleece, a course hair layer and a undercoat of soft, fine underdown. This soft layer is used to make cashmere wool yarn, and must first be de-haired to remove the courser hairs. Pure, quality cashmere is pricey and a splurge for many, but its high quality makes it a worthwhile purchase. Here's how to buy a cashmere wool sweater.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Find out the fiber content of a cashmere sweater before purchasing. Many will say "cashmere" but upon closer inspection, it's revealed they are a blend with only 10 to 20 percent cashmere. For the best quality, look for a sweater with 100 percent cashmere fibers.

2. Check the country of origin. While China can undercut the price of many other manufacturers, their quality and business practices often leave something to be desired. Look for fair trade cashmere or cashmere made by Nomads who are paid a fair price for their labor and materials.

3. Feel the sweater. The texture is the main selling point of cashmere. If it feels at all course or rough, keep shopping. Look for the finest texture, for a sweater you don't want to put down after you touch it.

4. Look for naturally colored cashmere that is the original hair color or dyed with natural ingredients. Harsh chemical dyes can damage the delicate nature of cashmere.

5. Try it on. Make sure the cashmere sweater you like is a comfortable fit and feels soft and supple when worn. The cashmere sweater should not have to stretch to be worn, but should fit comfortably on your torso.

Tips & Warnings

• Look for hand knit (as opposed to machine woven) cashmere sweaters an scarves. These will stand out in quality and appearance.

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