Discover the world of cashmere, one of the finest and most luxurious natural fibers, obtained from the soft undercoat of cashmere goats native to the mountainous regions of Kashmir, Mongolia, and Central Asia. This exceptional material, prized for centuries for its unparalleled softness and warmth, offers three times more insulation than traditional wool while remaining incredibly lightweight and comfortable against the skin. At Yves Salomon, we understand the artistry behind quality cashmere, from the careful hand-combing of goat fleece each spring to the precise de-hairing process that separates the precious underdown from coarser guard hairs. Whether you choose a cashmere coat, a refined sweater, or an elegant scarf, each piece reflects our commitment to sourcing the finest Grade A fibers and our French artisanal expertise in creating timeless luxury garments. Explore our curated selection of cashmere pieces, where traditional craftsmanship meets contemporary elegance to enhance your wardrobe with pieces designed to last for generations.
Cashmere originates from the soft undercoat of cashmere goats, specifically the Capra Hircus breed native to the harsh mountainous regions of Inner Mongolia, China, and Central Asia. These remarkable animals develop their precious downy fibers as protection against extreme winter temperatures that can plummet below -40 degrees Fahrenheit.
During the natural spring molting season, herders carefully hand-comb this fine undercoat from each goat, yielding only 100-200 grams of pure cashmere wool per animal annually. The finest quality comes from Mongolian goats, whose severe climate produces exceptionally long, soft fibers measuring just 14-16 micrometers in diameter.
This labor-intensive collection process, combined with the limited annual yield, explains why cashmere products command such premium prices and why each garment represents months of careful animal husbandry and artisanal expertise.
The distinction between cashmere and traditional wool lies primarily in fiber source and texture. While wool comes from sheep fleece, cashmere wool derives from goat undercoats, creating significantly finer fibers measuring 14-19 microns compared to wool's 18-30 microns.
This difference translates into superior softness and lightweight warmth. Cashmere clothing provides exceptional insulation without bulk, making it ideal for layering during colder months. Wool, though durable and moisture-resistant, feels coarser against the skin and lacks cashmere's distinctive silky texture.
Cashmere production yields limited quantities per animal, while sheep provide abundant wool harvests. This scarcity, combined with cashmere's unique properties of breathability and thermoregulation, positions it as the premium choice for discerning customers seeking unparalleled luxury and comfort in their winter wardrobe.
Cashmere fibers possess remarkable natural characteristics that set them apart from other materials. The finest fibres exhibit extraordinary thermoregulation capabilities, adapting seamlessly to your body temperature while maintaining optimal comfort in varying climates. This hygroscopic quality allows cashmere to absorb and release moisture naturally, preventing overheating during warmer periods.
The fiber's inherent breathability stems from its unique protein structure, which creates microscopic air pockets that provide insulation without weight. Cashmere knitwear offers three times the warmth of traditional wool while remaining incredibly lightweight against the skin.
Beyond thermal properties, cashmere demonstrates natural antimicrobial qualities and stain resistance, reducing the need for frequent washing. These beautiful garments maintain their shape and softness over time, making each piece a worthwhile investment that enhances your wardrobe with enduring elegance and unmatched comfort.
The name cashmere carries profound historical significance, derived from the Kashmir region nestled high in the Himalayas between India, Pakistan, and China. During the 19th century, this mountainous valley became renowned worldwide for producing the finest shawls and textiles, establishing a legacy that transformed a regional craft into global luxury.
Kashmir's artisans perfected the art of processing goat down imported from Tibet through ancient trade routes, creating items of such beauty that European nobility considered them more valuable than carriages. The region's harsh winters and skilled craftsmanship produced textiles so coveted that people traveled vast distances to acquire them.
Today, while the cashmere industry has expanded globally, the Kashmir region remains synonymous with artisanal excellence. The connection between place and product endures, honoring centuries of tradition where local families passed down weaving techniques through generations, creating a cultural heritage that continues to influence luxury fashion across the United States and beyond.
Today's global cashmere industry centers around two dominant regions that control the world's supply. China leads production with approximately 60% of raw cashmere, primarily from Inner Mongolia's vast grasslands where yarns of exceptional quality originate from the Ordos and Baotou regions.
Mongolia follows as the second-largest producer, contributing over 25% of global output through traditional nomadic herding practices. However, the reality of modern cashmere production reveals a complex dynamic: over 90% of Mongolia's raw fiber crosses into China for processing and manufacturing.
This geographic concentration creates both opportunities and challenges. While Chinese facilities offer efficient large-scale processing capabilities, discerning brands like Yves Salomon prioritize direct relationships with Mongolian herders to ensure traceability and support traditional communities. The best way to maintain quality standards involves careful sourcing that honors both regions' contributions to this luxury fabric.
Rising global temperatures directly affect cashmere fiber characteristics, creating significant challenges for producers seeking consistent quality. Warmer winters reduce the natural stress that triggers goats to develop their thick, luxurious undercoats, resulting in shorter, coarser fibers with diminished softness.
Mongolian cashmere faces particular vulnerability as climate shifts alter traditional grazing patterns. When temperatures fluctuate unpredictably, goats produce inconsistent fiber lengths and varying micron measurements, making it difficult to achieve the uniform high quality standards expected in luxury garments.
Water scarcity compounds these challenges, forcing herders to relocate frequently and disrupting the careful breeding programs that maintain superior genetics. These environmental pressures ultimately impact the cashmere industry's ability to deliver the consistently fine fibers that discerning customers expect from premium brands.
The collection of cashmere fiber follows a precise seasonal rhythm that determines the quality of the final product. Herders harvest the precious undercoat during a narrow window in spring when goats naturally shed their winter protection, typically between March and May depending on regional climate conditions.
Two primary methods ensure optimal fiber quality: hand-combing and careful shearing. Combing produces the finest results, as skilled herders use specialized wide-toothed combs to gently separate the soft undercoat from coarser guard hairs. This step preserves fiber length and minimizes contamination, though it requires considerable expertise to recognize the perfect timing.
Each goat yields only 150-300 grams of usable cashmere annually, making this first time collection process both labor-intensive and valuable. The delicate nature of harvesting explains the high price of authentic cashmere garments and underscores why quality sourcing remains paramount for luxury brands creating fabric by weaving these exceptional fibers into timeless pieces.
Once harvested, the raw cashmere undergoes mechanical separation to remove coarse guard hairs from the precious down fibers. Modern dehairing machines utilize centrifugal force and controlled airflow to distinguish between fiber types based on their different weights and textures.
The process requires multiple passes through specialized equipment, with each cycle reducing guard hair content from approximately 60% to industry standards of 0.2% for premium cashmere jumper production. Operators carefully monitor moisture levels, as excess water can compromise the separation efficiency and damage delicate fibers.
Hand-sorting remains the preferred method for the finest grades, where skilled artisans manually separate individual fibers using traditional techniques passed down through generations. This painstaking approach, while labor-intensive, ensures the superior softness and purity that distinguishes baby cashmere from standard commercial grades, preserving the fiber's natural characteristics for luxury garment construction.
The transformation of prepared cashmere fibers into luxurious yarn requires exceptional precision and expertise. Ring spinning remains the preferred method for premium cashmere, where fibers are carefully drawn and twisted into continuous threads through rotating spindles. This traditional technique preserves the natural softness while creating the strength needed for weaving.
Skilled artisans monitor twist levels throughout the process, as proper tension determines the yarn's final characteristics. Too little twist produces weak threads, while excessive twisting compromises the signature softness that makes cashmere garments so desirable.
Weaving completes the transformation, with warp and weft threads interlacing on precision looms to create the foundation fabric. Master weavers adjust thread density and pattern complexity based on the intended garment, whether creating the substantial weight needed for coats or the delicate construction required for scarves. This careful orchestration of spinning and weaving techniques ultimately determines the drape, durability, and luxurious feel of your finished cashmere pieces.
Cashmere quality is determined through a precise grading system that measures fiber diameter and length. Grade A cashmere represents the finest quality, with fibers measuring 14-16 microns in diameter and 34-36mm in length, delivering unparalleled softness and durability that justifies its premium positioning in luxury collections.
Grade B cashmere features slightly thicker fibers at 18-19 microns, offering excellent quality while remaining more accessible. Though not quite as refined as Grade A, it maintains the signature cashmere characteristics of warmth and comfort, making it perfect for everyday luxury pieces.
Grade C cashmere utilizes the thickest fibers at 30 microns, providing basic cashmere benefits at entry-level pricing. While less soft than higher grades, it still offers natural insulation and breathability. Understanding these classifications empowers you to make informed decisions when selecting cashmere pieces that match both your quality expectations and intended use.
The extraordinary softness that defines cashmere stems directly from the microscopic diameter of individual fibers. Premium cashmere features fibers measuring between 14-16 microns, creating a texture finer than human hair and delivering the signature cloud-like feel against your skin.
This remarkable fineness creates the luxurious sensation that distinguishes authentic cashmere garments from other materials. Fibers exceeding 19 microns lose the delicate softness that makes cashmere so coveted, while the finest specimens at 14 microns offer unmatched comfort and elegance.
The diameter directly influences how cashmere drapes and moves with your body. Yves Salomon sources only the finest grades to ensure our pieces maintain their sophisticated softness and refined comfort, creating garments that feel as luxurious as they appear.
Begin your authentication process by examining the care label, which should clearly state "100% cashmere" as required by law. Authentic pieces never rely on vague terms or percentages below 100% for genuine quality.
Conduct a simple touch test by feeling the fabric between your fingers. Real cashmere delivers an unmistakably soft, buttery texture without any scratchiness or roughness. Run the material across sensitive skin areas like your inner wrist - genuine cashmere feels smooth and gentle.
Check the garment's weight and density by holding it up to light. Quality cashmere garments maintain substantial feel while remaining lightweight, and you shouldn't see through the fabric easily. Look for minimal surface fluff of 1-2mm when examining the weave - excessive fiber protrusion often indicates lower quality or blended materials.
Ply construction represents one of the most significant factors determining your cashmere garment's longevity and performance. When cashmere yarns are twisted together, they create stronger, more resilient fabric that withstands daily wear while maintaining its luxurious characteristics.
Two-ply cashmere offers the optimal balance of durability and comfort, where paired yarn strands distribute stress evenly across the fabric. This construction method prevents the holes and thinning commonly seen in single-ply pieces, ensuring your investment maintains its pristine appearance season after season.
Higher ply counts like three-ply and four-ply provide enhanced structure and warmth, though they add weight without necessarily improving quality. The key lies in selecting pieces where expert craftsmanship maximizes each ply's contribution to the garment's overall integrity and refined drape that Yves Salomon customers expect.
The creation of luxury cashmere sweaters demands precise knitting techniques that transform premium yarn into garments of extraordinary softness and durability. Master craftsmen adjust needle gauge and stitch tension to achieve the perfect balance between structure and drape, ensuring each piece maintains its shape while providing the fluid comfort that defines superior knitwear.
Two-ply construction forms the foundation of our finest pieces, where paired cashmere strands create resilient fabric that withstands years of wear. The knitting process requires careful attention to seam finishing and edge treatments, with specialized techniques like linking and fashioning that eliminate bulk while preserving the garment's elegant silhouette.
Temperature control during construction prevents fiber stress, while expert finishing techniques including gentle pressing and steam treatment enhance the natural loft of the cashmere. These methods ensure your sweater delivers the cloud-like sensation and lasting beauty that make each piece a treasured addition to your wardrobe.
Cashmere coats deliver exceptional warmth while maintaining remarkable lightness, offering superior insulation that's nearly twice as effective as traditional wool by weight. This natural advantage means you stay comfortably warm without the bulk of heavier materials, creating elegant silhouettes that move gracefully with your body.
The breathable properties of cashmere regulate temperature naturally, preventing overheating during temperature fluctuations throughout your day. Whether transitioning from outdoor winter air to heated indoor spaces or layering for unpredictable weather, cashmere outerwear adapts seamlessly to changing conditions.
Yves Salomon cashmere coats combine this material's inherent benefits with refined tailoring and sophisticated cuts. From structured wool-cashmere blends perfect for professional settings to flowing double-face designs ideal for evening occasions, each piece offers versatility that elevates any ensemble with effortless sophistication and enduring comfort.
Transform your seasonal wardrobe with cashmere accessories that bridge the gap between function and refined style. Lightweight cashmere scarves become indispensable travel companions, offering gentle warmth during air-conditioned flights or breezy summer evenings while maintaining an elegant drape that complements both casual and formal ensembles.
Cashmere gloves and delicate wraps provide the perfect finishing touch to your sophisticated looks, delivering temperature regulation without compromising your silhouette. These versatile pieces transition seamlessly from day to evening wear, allowing you to adapt to changing conditions with grace.
Yves Salomon's lightweight cashmere collection emphasizes portability and versatility, creating accessories that pack beautifully for travel while maintaining their luxurious appearance and exceptional softness throughout countless wears.
Caring for your cashmere garments requires gentle handling and proper techniques to maintain their exceptional quality. Hand washing remains the preferred method, using lukewarm water around 68°F with specialized wool detergent. Submerge your piece briefly without soaking, then carefully squeeze out excess water without wringing or twisting the delicate fibers.
For drying, lay your garment flat on a clean towel away from direct heat or sunlight, reshaping it to original dimensions. When storing cashmere, always fold rather than hang to prevent stretching. Use breathable cotton storage bags and add cedar balls for natural moth protection.
Before seasonal storage, ensure your pieces are completely clean and dry. This prevents stains from setting and deters insects that are attracted to soiled fabrics, preserving your investment for years of continued wear.
While home care works beautifully for regular maintenance, certain situations call for professional cleaning expertise. Stubborn stains, strong odors, or heavily soiled garments benefit from specialized treatment that protects cashmere's delicate structure while achieving thorough results.
When selecting a dry cleaner, choose establishments experienced with luxury textiles who understand cashmere's unique requirements. Quality cleaners use gentle, eco-friendly solvents and avoid harsh chemicals that can strip natural oils from the fibers.
Seasonal professional cleaning at the beginning and end of each wearing period helps maintain your garments' pristine condition. This professional refresh removes accumulated residues that home washing might miss, ensuring your cashmere pieces retain their sophisticated appearance and cloud-like softness throughout their lifetime.
Pilling prevention begins with thoughtful daily habits that protect your cashmere's delicate fiber structure. Choose smooth-textured accessories and avoid rough surfaces like denim or coarse handbags that create friction against the natural fibers. When layering, select pieces with silk or cotton linings rather than textured materials that can cause abrasion.
Regular gentle washing actually helps prevent pilling by removing loose fibers before they tangle together on the surface. Turn garments inside out during cleaning to minimize external friction, and allow pieces to rest between wears so fibers can recover their natural position.
Should pills appear, a cashmere comb offers the safest removal method. Lay your garment flat and brush gently in one direction, lifting away surface pills without damaging the underlying weave. This proactive approach maintains your pieces' refined appearance while preserving their structural integrity for continued enjoyment.
The cashmere industry faces growing scrutiny regarding the treatment of goats during fiber collection and farming practices. Traditional harvesting methods vary significantly across regions, with some operations employing gentle combing techniques that respect the animals' natural molting cycle, while others use more aggressive approaches that can cause distress.
Responsible cashmere producers now prioritize certifications such as the Good Cashmere Standard and Sustainable Fibre Alliance protocols. These frameworks establish clear guidelines for humane treatment, proper nutrition, and appropriate shelter conditions that protect goats from extreme weather variations.
Yves Salomon works exclusively with suppliers who demonstrate commitment to ethical practices, ensuring our cashmere sourcing supports operations where animal welfare remains paramount. The future of luxury cashmere depends on industry-wide adoption of these elevated standards.
Modern cashmere farming requires careful balance between production needs and environmental stewardship. Rotational grazing emerges as the cornerstone approach, allowing pastures to recover naturally while maintaining fiber quality. These systems divide grazing areas into sections, moving herds strategically to prevent overgrazing that leads to soil degradation and desertification.
Responsible land management extends beyond grazing patterns to include native vegetation restoration and water conservation initiatives. Forward-thinking producers implement drought-resistant plant species and improve soil health through organic farming methods that eliminate harmful pesticides and fertilizers.
Yves Salomon partners with suppliers who demonstrate measurable commitment to these regenerative practices, ensuring our cashmere sourcing supports operations that enhance rather than deplete their local ecosystems. Through careful supplier selection, we contribute to farming systems that protect biodiversity while delivering the exceptional fiber quality our customers expect.
Comprehensive environmental impact evaluation reveals cashmere production's complex footprint across multiple ecological dimensions. Water consumption during fiber processing requires significant resources, while carbon emissions from transportation between remote production regions and global markets contribute substantially to the industry's environmental burden. Land degradation from intensive grazing affects biodiversity in fragile mountain ecosystems, creating long-term consequences that extend far beyond immediate production areas.
Responsible brands now implement rigorous life-cycle assessments to measure and minimize these impacts through innovative approaches. Recycled cashmere initiatives reduce demand for virgin fibers, while blockchain technology enables complete supply chain transparency from farm to finished garment. These technological solutions, combined with carbon offset programs and water conservation systems, represent the industry's evolution toward genuine sustainability that balances luxury with environmental stewardship.
Rooted in over a century of Parisian heritage, Yves Salomon's cashmere philosophy honors traditional French craftsmanship while embracing contemporary innovation. Our artisans select only the finest cashmere fibers from the high plateaus of Mongolia, where rigorous climate conditions produce exceptionally soft down.
Each piece reflects generations of French savoir-faire, with master craftsmen applying time-honored techniques passed down through our Parisian workshops. The meticulous attention to detail—from fiber selection to final finishing—creates cashmere garments that embody both luxury and longevity.
Double-face cashmere coats showcase our expertise in combining traditional weaving methods with architectural cuts that define modern elegance. This distinctly French approach transforms premium materials into timeless pieces that transcend seasonal trends.
Yves Salomon maintains rigorous standards through direct partnerships with specialized suppliers across Mongolia's remote highlands. Our sourcing team conducts regular site visits to verify fiber quality and ensure each batch meets our uncompromising specifications for softness and durability.
The transformation from raw cashmere to finished garments occurs within our Parisian workshops, where skilled artisans apply traditional French techniques refined over generations. Each coat undergoes multiple quality checkpoints, from initial fiber inspection to final pressing, ensuring consistent excellence.
Our double-face construction method exemplifies this commitment, requiring precise alignment of two cashmere layers to create reversible pieces of superior warmth and elegance. This specialized technique, mastered by only our most experienced craftsmen, delivers the refined sophistication that defines every Yves Salomon creation.
Cashmere and wool blends define our signature outerwear pieces, combining the softness of pure cashmere with the structure needed for sophisticated silhouettes. Our double-sided cashmere coats offer versatility through reversible designs, allowing you to transition effortlessly between casual and formal occasions.
The collection features long cashmere coats in rich camel and deep navy, perfect for creating elegant winter ensembles. For warmer climates, our lightweight cashmere jackets provide refined comfort without bulk, ideal for layering over silk blouses or fine knits.
Wool and cashmere peacoats bring timeless sophistication to your wardrobe, while cashmere-lined blazers add luxurious warmth to professional attire. Each piece reflects our commitment to materials that age beautifully, developing character and softness with every wear.