Mohair vs. Brushed Cashmere: What Sets Them Apart?

Softness, warmth, and texture—these are the qualities that define our favourite winter garments. But not all fibres are created equal. Among the most coveted are mohair and brushed cashmere, each offering a distinct experience in both feel and appearance. Both are prized for their softness, warmth, and elegance—but when it comes to brushed textures, the differences between mohair and brushed cashmere become particularly intriguing.

Origins and Fibre Characteristics

Mohair: The Lustrous Fibre of the Angora Goat

Mohair is derived from the Angora goat, known for producing long, silky fibres with a natural sheen. It’s lightweight yet insulating, and its high lustre gives garments a subtle glow that’s difficult to replicate.

• Fibre length: Long and smooth

• Texture: Airy, slightly coarse when unbrushed

• Sheen: High natural lustre

• Elasticity: Excellent recovery and drape

Cashmere: The Soft Gold of the Himalayas

Cashmere comes from the undercoat of the cashmere goat, typically raised in Mongolia, China, and parts of Central Asia. It’s renowned for its buttery softness and fine micron count, making it one of the most luxurious fibres in the world.

• Fibre length: Shorter and finer

• Texture: Exceptionally soft and smooth

• Sheen: Subtle, matte finish

• Elasticity: Moderate, with a gentle drape

Brushing Techniques: How Texture Is Transformed

Brushing is a finishing process that raises the surface fibres of yarn or fabric, creating a soft halo and enhancing loft. It’s commonly used to add warmth, volume, and a tactile appeal to knitwear.

• Brushed Mohair: The brushing amplifies mohair’s natural halo, resulting in a dramatic, fuzzy texture with visual depth. It’s ideal for statement pieces and fashion-forward silhouettes.

• Brushed Cashmere: Brushing cashmere yields a velvety surface that’s more subdued. The result is a plush, elegant finish that feels indulgent but remains refined.

Comparing Performance and Aesthetics

Feature	Mohair (Brushed)	Cashmere (Brushed)
Softness	Light and airy, slightly textured	Ultra-soft, smooth and plush
Warmth	Excellent insulation, breathable	Superior warmth, more compact
Durability	Strong, resilient to stretching	Delicate, prone to pilling
Visual Texture	Bold halo, high fashion appeal	Subtle bloom, understated luxury
Weight	Lightweight with volume	Heavier feel, denser drape
Care Requirements	Requires gentle handling, less prone to shrinkage	Needs careful washing, more sensitive to wear

✅ Pros and Cons

Mohair – Pros:

• Eye-catching texture and sheen

• Lightweight yet warm

• Excellent elasticity and shape retention

• Ideal for bold, expressive designs

Mohair – Cons:

• May feel slightly coarse to sensitive skin

• Less suited for minimalist or classic styles

• Can shed fibres during wear

Brushed Cashmere – Pros:

• Supreme softness and comfort

• Elegant, timeless appearance

• High thermal insulation in a compact form

• Perfect for luxury basics and refined silhouettes

Brushed Cashmere – Cons:

• More delicate and prone to pilling

• Higher cost and limited availability

• Requires careful maintenance

Design Considerations

When choosing between mohair and brushed cashmere, consider the mood and purpose of your collection:

• For bold, artistic knitwear: Mohair’s halo and sheen make it ideal for expressive textures and oversized silhouettes.

• For refined, everyday luxury: Brushed cashmere offers unmatched softness and elegance, perfect for elevated basics and timeless layering pieces.

Blends also offer exciting possibilities—brushed merino wool with cashmere, for instance, balances softness with structure, while mohair blends can temper fuzziness with smoother fibres.

Both mohair and brushed cashmere bring something special to the table. Mohair dazzles with its airy halo and lustrous finish, while brushed cashmere whispers luxury with its velvety softness. Understanding their properties, techniques, and performance helps designers and buyers craft collections that not only look beautiful but feel extraordinary.

Whether you're developing a winter capsule or curating a high-end knitwear line, the choice between mohair and brushed cashmere is more than aesthetic—it's a statement of texture, comfort, and craftsmanship.