Cripes it’s cold. Where’s me cashmere?
Have you noticed that there’s a buzz about cashmere this season? (Apologies to Southern Hemisphere readers who are currently sweltering in the heat and this topic is about as welcome as a festering heat rash.)
Cashmere is one of the softest, and most luxurious wools around, and it comes from the underbelly of goats in Mongolia, China and Tibet (impress your co-workers with that fun fact for the day, folks).
Traditionally regarded as an exclusive luxury item and an investment purchase, this Autumn/Winter sees cashmere moving into the High Street, where London retailers ranging from Primark to Pringle are giving punters the chance to grab a piece for themselves.
But is the cheaper stuff actually much chop? Generally speaking, you really do get what you pay for, but there are still quality everyday cashmere options around for quite reasonable prices.
Just don’t be misled by a label that states 100% cashmere, as it comes in different grades and is made using varying levels of refinement. Good quality cashmere shouldn’t feel scratchy or prickly, and the higher quality pieces are less likely to pill.
A cashmere addition to your wardrobe will be a treasured piece for many years to come, especially if you look after it. It also travels particularly well, and is perfect for achieving that “effortless chic” look.
So I was especially interested to hear that French luxury cashmere brand, Eric Bompard, has recently launched its British online store at www.eric-bompard.com. And it's fair to say that I was excited at the prospect of having a closer look at the brand when I was approached to review it as part of a new viral marketing initiative through London fashion/style blogs. Good idea, non?
I scored a matching Bompard hat and gloves set, in a particularly fetching shade of turquoise. C’est magnifique! The cashmere was soft and luxurious, and even survived a Christmas shopping expedition to Oxford Street on Saturday. Mad, moi? Despite being pushed and shoved in the mosh pit of festive shoppers, I felt smug snug and cosy in my new hat and gloves.
I’m also enamoured by Bompard’s current Autumn/Winter “So cashmere, so French” collection, accompanied by a gorgeous Nordic-style snowy shoot. Here are my fave looks:
Cute, huh? These pieces are equally lovely for lounging and escaping outdoors, and I really love the tartan cashmere scarf, which is bang on trend. The website is currently offering 20% off scarves, stoles and hats until 24 December, with all orders shipped to the UK at no cost. Very handy for last-minute presents (oh, you didn't?). They also ship worldwide – just check online for details.
Caring for your cashmere
Eric Bompard recommends you machine wash using the wool cycle, as it will help the garment maintain its shape. But always check the care label first. Alternatively, send it to the dry cleaners, or hand-wash it with a wool detergent, or a cashmere shampoo, like Brora's. Dry your cashmere by carefully rolling it in a clean, dry towel, and then arrange into shape to dry on a flat surface.
