This Is Why Cashmere Is So Expensive

When it comes to sweaters, cashmere is the ultimate in luxury, and whether you're going for elevated cashmere glittery nails or referring to the fabric, the name alone just whispers wealth. Cashmere is definitely a splurge item that can cost hundreds of dollars, and while it may seem extravagant to spend so much on one piece, there's a reason for its hefty price tag. Unlike regular wool sweaters that are typically made from sheep's fleece, cashmere is sourced from goats that live in the Himalayas. Because of the brutal cold and weather conditions, they grow a layer of thick coarse hair on top with a silky coat underneath, and that's where the cashmere comes from.

Obtaining the delicate material isn't as easy as shearing sheep. The hair is brushed off the goats in the spring before they naturally shed it all off in the summer. But the cashmere goats don't produce nearly as much hair as regular sheep, and once it's harvested and processed, not much is left. Because the abundance of these cashmere undercoats is so low, it takes a minimum of four goats just to make one sweater — and when the supply is low, the price tends to rise. It makes sense why cashmere sweaters are so expensive, but if you're still on the fence about splurging on one, you might change your mind when you discover why it's worth the money.

Many pieces in our wardrobes are only good for a few years before they get too worn but cashmere sweaters can be kept in perfect condition for much longer if you treat them properly, making them a great investment. The most important rule for taking care of cashmere clothing is to never put it in a washing machine. Instead, hand wash them with a gentle detergent, being careful not to wring out the water. Co-founder of knitwear brand Chinti & Parker Anna Singh told Who What Wear, "Very wet cashmere can take days to dry, so top tip — use a large salad spinner to remove any excess water. We find the spinners with a pull cord are the most effective." When most of the water is gone, lay the item flat but note that it can take some time to fully dry. According to Singh, with proper care cashmere sweaters can last up to 10 years, so be sure to look for timeless pieces that won't soon look outdated.

Although you can never go wrong with cashmere, there are different grades, and not all of them are made the same. Tim Ewington of sweater brand Aethel advised staying away from too much fluff. "Fluffy feels good, but it often covers up weaknesses. Fluffiness is good at disguising shorter cashmere hairs, which are less well-spun and heavily dyed," he revealed to The Guardian. Instead, opt for a two-ply sweater, which is much better quality. And, if you're still on the fence about breaking the bank, you can still wrap yourself in luxury without having to spend a fortune with these 21 cashmere sweaters you can pick up on a budget.