FAQ
Cashmere is meant to be lived in, cared for, and worn for years. Here you’ll find thoughtful answers about caring for sweaters, understanding quality, and building a more intentional wardrobe.
Thoughtful answers to help you shop with confidence.
Frequently Asked Questions
Cashmere Basics
What is cashmere?Cashmere is a luxurious natural fiber made from the soft undercoat of cashmere goats. Known for its exceptional softness, warmth, and lightweight feel, cashmere has been prized for centuries as one of the world's finest fibers.
Is cashmere warmer than wool?Yes. Cashmere is generally warmer than traditional sheep's wool while remaining lighter and softer. Its fine fibers create tiny air pockets that help trap heat without adding bulk.
Can cashmere be worn year-round?Absolutely. Lightweight cashmere is breathable and naturally regulates temperature, making it comfortable across multiple seasons. Many people wear cashmere year-round, especially in coastal climates.
Can cashmere be worn year-round?Absolutely. While cashmere is often associated with winter, lightweight cashmere is breathable and naturally regulates temperature. Fine-gauge sweaters, wraps, and cashmere-silk blends can be worn comfortably throughout much of the year, especially in mild coastal climates.
Why does cashmere pill?Pilling is a natural part of cashmere, especially in areas that experience friction, such as under the arms or along the sides of a sweater. Even luxury cashmere pills at first as loose fibers rise to the surface. Regular gentle maintenance helps keep cashmere looking beautiful.
What does 2-ply cashmere mean?"2-ply" refers to two strands of cashmere yarn twisted together before knitting. In general, 2-ply cashmere is more durable, holds its shape better, and feels more substantial than single-ply cashmere. While ply is only one factor in quality, many classic cashmere sweaters are made from 2-ply yarns because they balance softness and longevity.
Frequently Asked Questions
Cashmere Care & Washing
Can cashmere be washed?Yes. Most cashmere can be safely washed at home. Hand washing with cool water and a gentle wool or cashmere detergent is often the best way to keep fibers soft and extend the life of your sweater. Always lay flat to dry.
How often should I wash cashmere?Cashmere doesn't need frequent washing. In most cases, washing every three to five wears is sufficient, depending on how the garment is used. Airing your sweater between wears can help keep it fresh and reduce unnecessary washing.
Can cashmere be dry cleaned?Yes, but dry cleaning is not always necessary. Many cashmere sweaters can be safely hand washed at home, which is often gentler on the fibers. If a garment is heavily structured or the care label specifically recommends dry cleaning, it's best to follow those instructions.
Can cashmere be steamed?Yes. Steaming is one of the gentlest ways to remove wrinkles and refresh cashmere between washes. A handheld steamer can help restore the sweater's appearance without direct heat or pressure.
How do I remove pills from cashmere?The best way to remove pills is with a cashmere comb or fabric shaver designed for delicate knits. Work gently across the surface of the fabric without pressing too hard. A few minutes of maintenance can help keep your sweater looking its best.
What detergent should I use for cashmere?Choose a gentle detergent formulated for wool, cashmere, or delicate fabrics. Avoid bleach, fabric softeners, and harsh detergents, which can damage fibers and shorten the life of your sweater. A small amount of mild detergent is all that's needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Storage & Longevity
Should cashmere be hung or folded?Cashmere should almost always be folded rather than hung. Hanging can stretch delicate fibers and cause sweaters to lose their shape over time. Folding helps preserve the fit, structure, and longevity of your garments.
How should I store cashmere sweaters?Store cashmere folded in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Breathable storage bags, cedar blocks, or lavender sachets can help protect your sweaters while allowing the fibers to breathe. Avoid overcrowding shelves or drawers.
How do I protect cashmere from moths?The best defense against moths is storing cashmere clean. Moths are attracted to body oils, food residue, and natural fibers. Before seasonal storage, wash or clean your sweaters and store them with cedar or lavender in a sealed container or garment bag.
What causes holes in cashmere sweaters?Small holes are often caused by moths, snags, friction, or repeated wear in high-stress areas. Proper storage, gentle handling, and regular inspection can help prevent damage and extend the life of your cashmere.
Can cashmere be repaired?Often, yes. Small holes, loose seams, and minor damage can frequently be repaired by a skilled mender. One of the advantages of investing in quality cashmere is that many pieces can be restored and enjoyed for years rather than replaced.
How long should a quality cashmere sweater last?With proper care, a well-made cashmere sweater can last for decades. Many vintage cashmere pieces remain beautiful after twenty years or more of wear. Quality construction, thoughtful storage, and regular maintenance all matter.
Frequently Asked Questions
Marin Cashmere
What makes Marin Cashmere different?Marin Cashmere is a curated collection of timeless, high-quality cashmere selected for softness, longevity, and effortless style. Rather than chasing trends, we focus on well-made pieces that can be worn, loved, and cared for over many years.
What condition can I expect from preloved cashmere?Most pieces are in excellent pre-owned condition. Any visible wear, such as light pilling or a minor flaw, is clearly noted and photographed in the listing.
Each item is carefully inspected and refreshed before shipping so you can shop with confidence.
How do you source your inventory?Every piece is individually sourced and selected for quality, condition, and timeless appeal. We focus on brands known for craftsmanship and natural fibers, looking for pieces that still have years of life and wear ahead of them.
Why do you focus on heritage brands?Heritage brands have often spent decades perfecting their craftsmanship, materials, and construction techniques. Many of these pieces were designed to last beyond a single season and continue to offer exceptional quality years later.
We believe these timeless garments deserve a second life.
What brands do you typically carry?Inventory changes regularly, but you may find brands such as Kinross, Eric Bompard, Malo, Margaret O'Leary, Vince, Brodie, White + Warren, Repeat, and other heritage and contemporary cashmere labels known for quality and craftsmanship.
Because every piece is individually sourced, selection is always evolving.
How often do you add new inventory?
New pieces are added regularly throughout the year, with larger seasonal edits arriving as the weather changes. Because many items are one-of-a-kind, we encourage customers to follow along on Instagram or join our email list for first access to new arrivals.
Frequently Asked Questions
Buying & Quality
How can I tell if cashmere is high quality?High-quality cashmere typically feels soft without being overly fuzzy, has a dense, even knit, and maintains its shape over time. While all cashmere pills initially, better fibers tend to pill less as the garment ages. Construction, fiber quality, and craftsmanship are often more important than the label alone.
What does 2-ply cashmere mean?"2-ply" refers to two strands of cashmere yarn twisted together before knitting. In general, 2-ply cashmere is more durable, holds its shape better, and feels more substantial than single-ply cashmere. Many classic cashmere sweaters are made from 2-ply yarns because they balance softness and longevity.
Why is cashmere so expensive?Cashmere is made from the fine undercoat of cashmere goats, and only a small amount of fiber can be collected from each animal each year. The harvesting, sorting, and processing of these delicate fibers is labor-intensive, which contributes to the higher cost of quality cashmere.
What are heritage cashmere brands?Heritage cashmere brands are known for decades of craftsmanship, exceptional materials, and timeless design. These companies have built reputations for producing garments designed to last for years rather than seasons. Many of the pieces we source come from brands with a long history of quality and attention to detail.
Does older cashmere tend to be better quality?Not always, but often. Many older cashmere garments were made with longer fibers, heavier knits, and a greater emphasis on durability. A well-maintained vintage sweater can sometimes feel more substantial than a newer garment and still have decades of wear remaining.
Is preloved cashmere worth buying?Absolutely. Preloved cashmere allows you to enjoy exceptional quality and craftsmanship at a fraction of the original retail price. Many secondhand pieces have already proven their durability and can offer outstanding value when properly cared for.
Frequently Asked Questions
Styling and Capsule Wardrobe
What is a cashmere capsule wardrobe?A cashmere capsule wardrobe is a small collection of versatile, high-quality knitwear that works together effortlessly. Instead of owning dozens of sweaters, a capsule focuses on a few timeless pieces in coordinating colors that can be worn across seasons and occasions.
How many cashmere sweaters do I need?There is no perfect number, but many people find that five to eight well-chosen sweaters are enough to create dozens of outfits. A mix of neutrals, layering pieces, and a favorite accent color can cover most wardrobe needs while keeping your closet simple and intentional.
What colors belong in a cashmere capsule wardrobe?Start with versatile neutrals such as oatmeal, camel, gray, navy, cream, or black. From there, add one or two colors you love and wear often. Choosing a cohesive color palette makes it easier to mix and match pieces throughout the year.
What are the most versatile cashmere pieces?A classic crewneck, V-neck, cardigan, and lightweight wrap are among the most versatile cashmere pieces. These styles layer easily, transition between casual and polished looks, and remain timeless year after year.
Can cashmere be dressed up or down?Absolutely. Cashmere is one of the most versatile fabrics you can own. Pair it with jeans and sneakers for a relaxed look, or style it with tailored trousers, a skirt, or jewelry for a more polished outfit. The same sweater can often work for both everyday wear and special occasions.
How do I style cashmere for travel?Cashmere is ideal for travel because it is lightweight, comfortable, and adaptable. A neutral sweater or wrap can be layered on planes, paired with denim for sightseeing, or dressed up for dinner. Choosing versatile pieces helps you pack less while creating more outfit options.
Frequently Asked Questions
Sustainability & Slow Fashion
Is preloved cashmere sustainable?Yes. Extending the life of a well-made garment is one of the most sustainable choices you can make. By purchasing preloved cashmere, you help reduce waste, conserve resources, and keep beautiful pieces in circulation for years longer.
Why buy preloved cashmere?Preloved cashmere offers exceptional quality and craftsmanship at a fraction of the original retail price. It also gives existing garments a second life, reducing demand for new production and supporting a more thoughtful approach to fashion.
What is slow fashion?Slow fashion is the practice of choosing quality over quantity. It emphasizes well-made clothing, timeless style, thoughtful purchasing decisions, and caring for garments so they last longer. The goal is to buy less, buy better, and wear what you own more often.
How does buying secondhand reduce waste?Every secondhand purchase helps extend the life of an existing garment and keeps it out of landfills. Buying secondhand also reduces the demand for new manufacturing, which can require significant amounts of water, energy, and raw materials.
Why does Marin Cashmere focus on timeless styles?Timeless styles remain wearable long after trends come and go. By focusing on classic silhouettes, versatile colors, and quality craftsmanship, we help customers build wardrobes that feel relevant season after season rather than disposable.
Is buying fewer, better pieces really more sustainable?In many cases, yes. A well-made sweater that is worn and loved for ten years often has a lower environmental impact than several lower-quality garments that are quickly discarded. Choosing quality, caring for what you own, and purchasing thoughtfully are key principles of a more sustainable wardrobe.
Frequently Asked Questions
Shipping, Orders, and Policies
How quickly do orders ship?Orders are typically shipped within 1–3 business days. Once your order has been processed, you'll receive tracking information through the marketplace where your purchase was made.
How are items packaged?Each piece is carefully folded and packaged to help protect it during transit. We believe beautiful garments deserve thoughtful handling from our hands to yours.
How do you describe item condition?Every item is individually inspected before listing. Any visible signs of wear, repairs, or imperfections are clearly described and photographed so you can shop with confidence.
Do you accept returns?Return policies vary by selling platform. Please review the return policy on the specific Etsy or Poshmark listing before purchasing. If you have questions before ordering, we're always happy to help.
What if my item arrives damaged?If your order arrives damaged or there is an issue with your purchase, please contact us as soon as possible through the platform where you placed your order. We'll work with you to find the best solution.
How can I contact Marin Cashmere?The easiest way to get in touch is through the website, Etsy, Poshmark, or Instagram. We do our best to respond promptly and are always happy to answer questions about sizing, condition, or styling.
Frequently Asked Questions
Resources
Do you offer a cashmere care guide?Yes. The Ultimate Cashmere Care Guide is a practical resource covering washing, drying, storing, and maintaining cashmere so your pieces last for years.
Where can I learn more about caring for cashmere?Visit our Cashmere Care section for articles on washing, depilling, storage, steaming, and extending the life of your favorite sweaters.
Do you offer resources for resellers?Yes. The Curated Boutique Playbook is designed for resellers who want to build a more focused, profitable business through thoughtful sourcing and intentional growth. The Niche Workbook is for folks looking to choose a resale niche at midlife.