Cashmere – the ever luxurious, often misunderstood, fabric with a name as fancy as a wine grape. Cashmere has a history that might have you questioning whether you even deserve to wear it.

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Though today cashmere may seem to be a fabric mocked by plastic blends, exploited by fast fashion brands, and unfairly typecast as feminine, cashmere remains to be an important fabric in the masculine fashion industry. Here’s a breakdown on the greatly misunderstood cashmere.

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Cashmere garments date back to the 14th century and share linked origins to areas of high altitudes and magnificent mountain ranges such as Tibet, Mongolia, and of course Kashmir. In fact the modern name (cashmere) is derived from the anglicization of Kashmir. These areas shared many similarities, one being a suitable habitat for the fluffiest fucking goat you’ll every see. The garments began production and quickly became prized possession by the Mughal Empire for its unmatched practical warmth and durability. So next time someone pokes fun at your soft sweater, remind them that it was cherished by an empire that evoked surrender from entire cities by their violent successes, and is still far superior to the poly-blend they’re wrapped in. Fast forward to the 18th century: cashmere was still catching the eyes of militant conquerors, for Napoleon had reportedly gifted a fine cashmere shawl to his beloved Josephine, igniting a western fascination with the garment. Down the line it became an icon for its softness, entering the world of woman’s fashion. Lingerie and Hollywood actresses, cashmere was the shit. Overcasting its own heritage of ruggedness, and its more subtle use in modern men's suits, bomber jackets, and more.

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So what makes good cashmere? Unlike wool, cashmere is not obtained through shearing, rather the beautiful undercoat is combed, gradually removing the fibers from the goat. The longer the fiber the better for construction purposes, and the finer the strand the softer the garment can be. Because of the composition of the natural fiber, a good cashmere garment will stretch and also recover its form better than cotton or wool. I wouldn’t recommend stretching the garment out right in front of the sales associate, but maybe give it a gentle stress-test when trying it on. Cashmere is also antimicrobial, as the wool’s natural protein structure inhibits the buildup of odours and bacteria, unlike those musty polyester ass-wrapers you’ve been harbouring in your laundry bin. So a good garment should retain its freshness for longer, preventing frequent washing.

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Speaking of which, forget the irritating myth of cashmere being hard to care for, simply machine wash on a delicate cycle, cold. Once washed, simply reshape the garment and lay it flat on a clean towel to air dry. If it’s especially delicate, wash in a mesh garment bag and use a gentle detergent (which you should use anyway).

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Because the fibre itself is so astounding, the basis of quality is bestowed upon the craftsman. The elements of care, harmony, and responsibility are things to consider when purchasing cashmere. It is a garment that when made and treated properly, will return the favour, and treat you well for years to come. So when considering a purchase of a cashmere garment choose a craftsman that shares a passion for these qualities. Brunello Cucinelli, for example, does an excellent job of respecting the fibers and the craftsmen that create their pieces. Their price is representative of their value, you can think of the perfect garment like your first Rolex: it’s an achievement. It’s why connoisseurs will say congratulations to you as you walk out the boutique.

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Today, cashmere is reclaiming its masculinity. It’s not just for your girlfriend’s cardigan anymore. It’s showing up in bombers, joggers, and even luxury t-shirts. Brands like Loro Piana and Brunello Cucinelli understand that modern luxury isn’t about flash, it’s about feel, fit, and the quiet confidence of wearing something made beautifully. It’s a fibre that reflects the stoicism and duality of man – It’s soft power, literally. So when you get your own quality cashmere garment, wear it properly: unapologetically, and as it sounds like a fine wine, it will age like one too.