Why Is Cashmere So Expensive?

Cashmere is one of the most luxurious fabrics in the world, cherished for its feather-light warmth, buttery softness, and timeless elegance. But with price tags that often soar into triple digits—or even more—many fashion lovers pause to ask: why is cashmere so expensive?

In this blog, we explore what makes cashmere such a coveted material, why it’s worth the investment, and how to choose, care for, and wear it. Whether you're shopping for the best cashmere sweaters, a cozy cashmere hoodie, or a versatile cashmere cardigan sweater, this guide breaks down everything you need to know about this remarkable fabric.

What Is Cashmere?

Cashmere is a natural fiber derived from the undercoat of cashmere goats, mainly found in Mongolia, Nepal, and northern China. Unlike sheep’s wool, which is sheared, cashmere is hand-combed from the goats during their spring molting season. This labor-intensive process yields a small amount of ultra-fine wool, which is then spun into luxurious garments.

On average, a single goat produces just 150 grams of usable fiber per year. It takes wool from 3–5 goats to make just one ladies cashmere sweater. This rarity and the effort required to produce it are key reasons why cashmere is so expensive.

The Production Journey: From Goat to Garment

Producing a quality cashmere cardigan women will love is no easy feat. Here's a look at the journey:

1. Harvesting: During spring, goats naturally shed their undercoat. Skilled workers carefully comb the fiber by hand.

2. Sorting: The collected fibers are sorted by length and fineness. Only the longest and finest strands are used for luxury garments like a cashmere turtleneck sweater or cashmere coat women adore.

3. Dehairing: The coarse outer hair is removed, leaving only the soft undercoat.

4. Spinning & Weaving: The soft wool is spun into yarn and woven into fabrics for cashmere pants, cardigans, and dresses.

Why Is Cashmere So Expensive?

1. Limited Supply

Cashmere’s supply is naturally limited due to the small yield per goat. Global demand outpaces the slow, traditional production process, making it a rare luxury.

2. Labor-Intensive Process

Unlike mass-produced fabrics, cashmere requires a great deal of human labor—especially during the combing, sorting, and dehairing stages.

3. Premium Qualities

Cashmere wool is not only incredibly soft but also:

• Up to 8x warmer than sheep wool

• Lightweight and breathable

• Hypoallergenic and non-irritating

These qualities make it perfect for everything from a fresh cream warm cashmere hoodie to a black cashmere sweater or a red cashmere sweater that instantly elevates any winter look.

Elegant 100% Cashmere Off-the-Shoulder Sweater

Popular Cashmere Pieces

Here are just a few of the beloved styles you’ll find in a well-curated wardrobe:

• Cashmere Sweater Women: Versatile, classic, and endlessly wearable.

• Cashmere Cardigan Sweater: Layer-friendly and seasonless.

• Cashmere Hoodie: Casual, sporty luxury.

• Cashmere Pants: Cozy yet refined for lounging or travel.

• Cashmere Turtleneck: Elegant, warm, and always chic.

• Cashmere Dress: A rare and refined choice for knitwear lovers.

• Pink Cashmere Sweater: Soft color, softer feel.

• White Cashmere Sweater: Crisp and clean, ideal for minimalist style.

• Black Cashmere Sweater: A timeless essential.

• Cashmere Coat Women: The ultimate outerwear investment.

Cashmere Weather: When and Where to Wear It

Cashmere is especially ideal for transitional seasons and winter. In true "cashmere weather"—those crisp fall mornings or snowy evenings—a cashmere cardigan or turtleneck sweater is both functional and fashionable. Pair your red cashmere sweater with tailored trousers or style your black cashmere sweater midi with leather boots for a sleek city look.

Chunky 100% Cashmere Cable-Knit Double-Zip Cardigan

How to Wash Cashmere

Caring for cashmere properly is essential to preserving its quality. Wondering how to wash cashmere? Here’s a simple method:

1. Use Cold Water: Always hand wash in cold water with a gentle detergent.

2. Avoid Agitation: Gently press the water through the fabric—don’t wring or twist.

3. Dry Flat: Lay the item flat on a clean towel and reshape as it dries.

4. Avoid Heat: Keep away from direct sunlight or heaters.

These steps will ensure your garments—from a white cashmere sweater to a cashmere cardigan women wear year-round—stay beautiful and intact.

How to Clean Cashmere (and Store It)

Aside from washing, there are other ways to care for your pieces:

• Pilling: Remove with a cashmere comb or gentle fabric shaver.

• Storage: Fold and store in breathable cotton bags. Never hang, as cashmere can stretch.

• Freshen Up: If it’s not dirty, let it air out. Cashmere is naturally odor-resistant.

Choosing the Best Cashmere Sweaters

Not all cashmere is equal. Look for:

• Grade A fibers: These are the longest and finest.

• Two-ply yarn: Offers more durability and softness.

• Tight knit: Indicates better quality.

• Reputable brands: Transparency around sourcing and sustainability is key.

Whether you’re shopping for a ladies cashmere sweater or a unique pink cashmere sweater, these features signal true quality.

100% Cashmere Faux-Wrap Sweater

Styling Tips for Cashmere

Cashmere’s versatility makes it a dream to style:

• Office Look: Tuck a cashmere turtleneck into high-waisted trousers.

• Weekend Casual: Pair a fresh cream warm cashmere hoodie with jeans.

• Evening Chic: Throw a long cashmere cardigan sweater over a dress and heels.

• Loungewear: Try cashmere pants with a coordinating hoodie or white cashmere sweater.

Sustainable and Ethical Cashmere

Ethical concerns around overgrazing and animal welfare have prompted a shift toward sustainable practices. Look for:

• Brands that use responsibly sourced cashmere

• Certifications (like Good Cashmere Standard)

• Transparent supply chains

Supporting ethical production helps preserve both the planet and the future of luxurious fashion.

Final Thoughts: Is Cashmere Worth the Investment?

Absolutely. While it may carry a higher upfront cost, a quality black cashmere sweater or cardigan delivers in longevity, comfort, and timeless appeal. When you factor in cost-per-wear and the lasting elegance of cashmere wool, it’s easy to see why investing in a few essential pieces—like a red cashmere sweater or cashmere coat women turn to year after year—makes perfect sense.

So whether you're new to the fabric or ready to expand your collection, know that cashmere offers more than style—it delivers on substance. Warm, wearable, and wonderfully indulgent, it’s a fabric that lives up to its reputation.

Explore our curated collection of luxurious cashmere pieces: from the best cashmere sweaters to cozy cashmere pants, ladies cashmere sweaters, and elegant outerwear.