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Last week we talked about leather, and why we love it so much.  This week we are supposed to be talking about luxury and what makes something luxurious, but I'm just going directly to Cashmere! 

Cashmere has been called "The Fiber of Kings."  For centuries it has been one of the most rare and exotic fibers to be found. It originally came from the soft undercoat of Cashmere Goats form what is today, the area of Kashmir India.  Although today Cashmere comes from a number of countries around the world, the supply is never enough to satisfy demand.  It is still known for its elegance, rarity, luxury and comfort.

Cashmere comes from goats that have an undercoat that is soft and silky to keep them warm in the harsh climate. It is a very laborious process to bring the fibers from the source to the fashion that we all love.  First, the Cashmere fibers must be collected.  This is done during the molting process in the spring.  The fibers are collected by either combing or shearing. The next step is "sorting, or scouring," where the fine soft fibers are sorted from the coarse hair.  The fibers are then washed to remove dirt, grease and any other matter.  Then the material is "Dehaired," where the coarse outer guard is separated from the soft Cashmere fibers.  Then the fiber is spun into yarns and is ready for weaving or knitting.  This is a long, labor intensive process.  It takes a single goat one year to produce enough cashmere for a scarf.  But the softness and weightless luxury of the Cashmere fiber is something that is worth it.

Cashmere has been part of European history since the 14th century, but there are references going back much further. The Arc of the Covenant was rumored to be lined and curtained with it.  It is also believed that the ancient romans loved and valued Cashmere, but when Rome fell it was forgotten. It became very popular in the 18th century, when Napoleon, after conquering Egypt, brought his beloved Josephine back a beautiful cashmere shawl as a gift.  She fell in love with it and eventually had hundreds in her wardrobe. The rest of France soon followed.

This week, I am thrilled to have the first G.I.L.I.(TM) sweater in Cashmere with a touch of silk. I cannot think of a more luxurious blend. 

We also have a beautiful coat that is inspired by one of my personal favorites and a blouse that looks as glamorous as Old Hollywood itself.  We also have a beautiful bag from Aimee Kestenberg and something you will definitely need from Josie Maran, as you go into the colder months.  What could possibly finish off this luxury show of fine fashion, handbags and beauty?  Oh yeah, a brand new, gorgeous, Judith Ripka watch. 

I know, I don't know how we fit it all into one hour either!  See you at 10p ET this Friday! Yay!!!