Cashmere is often categorized as a cold-weather luxury, but the fiber’s natural adaptability makes it suitable for wear across all four seasons. Its unique characteristics allow it to perform effectively in warmer conditions, offering comfort when heavier fabrics would cause overheating. By selecting the correct garment construction, cashmere can transition into a lightweight summer staple.
Why Cashmere is Suitable for Warm Weather
The inherent structure of the cashmere fiber provides an advantage in managing body temperature, a property known as thermoregulation. Cashmere fibers are naturally hollow, which allows them to trap air and create insulation in cold weather, but also promotes efficient airflow when warm. This breathability prevents the material from holding heat close to the skin, making it suitable for transitional or mild climates.
The fiber is also a hygroscopic material, possessing natural moisture-wicking properties. Cashmere absorbs water vapor from the body and quickly releases it into the air, helping to keep the skin dry. This mechanism regulates the microclimate surrounding the body, preventing the clammy sensation associated with synthetic materials in humid conditions.
Identifying Lightweight Summer Cashmere
The suitability of cashmere for summer depends on its construction, determined by examining its ply and gauge. The ply refers to the number of cashmere strands twisted together to form the yarn. A 1-ply or 2-ply construction results in a lighter, more fluid fabric. Garments with a higher ply, such as 3-ply or 4-ply, are reserved for heavier winter wear, as they create a denser, thicker material.
The knit gauge indicates the density of the stitching, measured by the number of stitches per inch. High-gauge knits, such as 12-gauge or 16-gauge, are preferred for summer garments because they produce a fine, smooth fabric with a superior drape. Conversely, a lower gauge, like a 7-gauge, creates a more open, mesh-like knit, often utilized for lightweight scarves and wraps. Cashmere is sometimes blended with other fibers like silk or cotton to increase lightness and breathability, resulting in a textile that retains softness while feeling cooler against the skin.
Wearing and Caring for Cashmere in Summer
Lightweight cashmere pieces are practical additions to a summer wardrobe for environments with controlled temperatures, such as air-conditioned offices or during air travel. They are also ideal for cool evenings, providing warmth without the bulk of a heavy jacket. Styling these garments by draping them over the shoulders rather than wearing them in a traditional layered fashion can maximize their temperature-regulating benefits.
The warmer months correspond with the active moth season, which typically runs from April to September. Moths are attracted to protein, including residual body oils and stains left on worn clothing. Therefore, all cashmere must be thoroughly cleaned before being stored for any extended period to prevent moth damage.
Garments should be folded neatly and stored in breathable bags, such as cotton, to protect them from pests and allow air circulation. Avoid storing cashmere on hangers, as this can cause the delicate fibers to stretch and distort the garment’s shape. Natural deterrents like cedar blocks or lavender sachets can be placed alongside the stored items to discourage moths.