Fashion to keep you warm in the winter

As investment buys go, cashmere is a coveted commodity.

Lightweight, yet warm, its fine and luxurious fibres (brushed from the downy underhairs of the Inner Mongolian goat) multitask effortlessly across the seasons.

That said, its infamous personal care ritual (note: TLC as standard) can be off-putting, not to mention its steep price tag. Like most relationships, however, if prepared to put in the graft, cashmere will repay you with years of soft snuggles.

STYLE NOTES:

• HANDLE WITH CARE: Always handwash cashmere using cool to lukewarm water, a mild detergent and a spot of conditioner to keep it soft. Dry naturally — never on a clothesline or radiator. Use a cool iron to kill creases and always fold— never hang.
• BRUSH IT OUT: Keep fibres fuzz-free with a delicate depilating brush.
• QUALITY CONTROL: Looking for the real deal? Pull the sides of the garment slightly and let go. A spring in the material makes for a strong weave that won’t sag over time.
• GAUGE IT: Top tip? The lower the gauge, the thicker the knit. Invest in a winter-proof 3-gauge now and increase as the seasons change.