Cashmere in United States
Cashmere is a fiber appreciated by many in the United States for its rareness, sensation and luxuriousness. Cashmere is the king of wool and this fact is acknowledged by the quality and beauty loving Americans.
United States was among the first countries to accept a trademark for Cashmere. This meant Himalayan Cashmere, which was often called Pashmina, suffered. Even till date, there is no trademark for Pashmina. This means a seller could sell any sort of fiber and call it Pashmina. Nepalese government learnt they made a mistake and moved to trademark Chyangra Pashmina as genuine Himalayan Cashmere. Nonetheless, Chyangra Pashmina (literally means Cashmere from Himalayan goat) is a vague trademark. A seller can sell anything having a minimum requirement of 51% as Cashmere. United States laws protects the interest of the buyer, so decided not accept this trademark. In one way, we are happy it did not happen. We want people to enjoy genuine and pure Cashmere.
The US Cashmere trademark law states that labels must accurately disclose the content of the product. If it's a 70% Cashmere, it should say 70% Cashmere. However, on the other hand, seller can sell anything up to 19 micron as Cashmere. Such Cashmere is a bit rough, feels a little cheap and are the ones sold by clothing chains like H&M and Uniqlo. This is not what Patasi Cashmere sells. Our Cashmere is of 15.5 micron. It is much softer, feels really good and gives you a sense of satisfaction. You will actually understand why we so often talk about the quality and authenticity of our Cashmere.
Cashmere, as a fashion has seen some ups and downs but the most fascinating fact about Cashmere is it has always been in fashion. Kings, royalties, first lady, actors & actresses everyone loves Cashmere. Moreover, development of technology and the concept of economies of scale has resulted in Cashmere being much more affordable for everyone of us to have at least couple in our closet.