The Value of Cashmere

In today's world, where the pursuit of a good deal is a common theme and expenses seem to rise steadily, navigating the fashion industry with a high-end product can be challenging, especially for a brand with a smaller yet reputable presence.


So, what sets the price of cashmere apart, and how is its value determined? Why do some brands sell sweaters at £600 to £1500, while others like M&S offer them at £120, with many falling in between? Is it merely a matter of a name tag inflating the price or is not all cashmere made equally?
Speaking from my perspective and experience, having explored various qualities and price points of cashmere, it's evident that cashmere's value lies in its rich history and exceptional characteristics. Originating from the soft undercoat of cashmere goats primarily in the Himalayan regions, this luxurious fiber has been cherished for thousands of years. Initially manufactured in the UK, notably in Yorkshire, before finding its stride in Scotland, cashmere has always been synonymous with luxury and sophistication, admired by fashion lovers for its unmatched softness, warmth, and breathability, along with its lightweight quality and rarity.


However, the landscape has shifted. Cashmere, once considered a luxury reserved for the elite, has become ubiquitous, available everywhere from fast-fashion retailers to high-street brands. But this accessibility has come at a cost. With the surge in demand, cashmere farms are cropping up everywhere, often operating without proper regulation. This unchecked expansion has led to concerns about animal welfare, environmental degradation, and exploitation of herders and their communities. It's clear that not all cashmere is created equal; there are significant variations in quality that impact pricing. Factors such as fibre length, diameter, purity, colour consistency, and the quality of processing and finishing all contribute to the final product's value.


In today's world, where the pursuit of a good deal is a common theme and expenses seem to rise steadily, navigating the fashion industry with a high-end product can be challenging, especially for a brand with a smaller yet reputable presence.


So, what sets the price of cashmere apart, and how is its value determined? Why do some brands sell sweaters at £600 to £1500, while others like M&S offer them at £120, with many falling in between? Is it merely a matter of a name tag inflating the price or is not all cashmere made equally?
Speaking from my perspective and experience, having explored various qualities and price points of cashmere, it's evident that cashmere's value lies in its rich history and exceptional characteristics. Originating from the soft undercoat of cashmere goats primarily in the Himalayan regions, this luxurious fiber has been cherished for thousands of years. Initially manufactured in the UK, notably in Yorkshire, before finding its stride in Scotland, cashmere has always been synonymous with luxury and sophistication, admired by fashion lovers for its unmatched softness, warmth, and breathability, along with its lightweight quality and rarity.


However, the landscape has shifted. Cashmere, once considered a luxury reserved for the elite, has become ubiquitous, available everywhere from fast-fashion retailers to high-street brands. But this accessibility has come at a cost. With the surge in demand, cashmere farms are cropping up everywhere, often operating without proper regulation. This unchecked expansion has led to concerns about animal welfare, environmental degradation, and exploitation of herders and their communities. It's clear that not all cashmere is created equal; there are significant variations in quality that impact pricing. Factors such as fibre length, diameter, purity, colour consistency, and the quality of processing and finishing all contribute to the final product's value.


For Story Cashmere, as a brand, it's essential to partner with yarn providers that uphold high standards and prioritise sustainability, ethical practices, and animal welfare. Working with reputable providers who are members of industry-regulating boards, employ responsible manufacturing processes, and support herder communities ensures that our cashmere not only meets quality standards but also aligns with our values. Despite the higher costs associated with such partnerships, including membership fees and audited factories, we believe it's a worthwhile investment in ensuring that our products are not only of superior quality but also responsibly produced.