Understanding Cashmere Grades: What You’re Actually Paying For

Cashmere has long held its place as one of the most coveted fibres in the world, soft, warm, feather light, and unmistakably luxurious. But not all cashmere is created equal. For fashion brands, especially those working in the mid‑ to high‑end space, understanding cashmere grades isn’t just helpful, it’s essential for making informed sourcing decisions and communicating value to customers.

At CH Cashmere, we work with Grade A, Grade B, and Baby Cashmere, depending on the product and the needs of each brand. For our ready‑made wholesale knitwear, we typically use Grade B cashmere, striking a balance between quality, durability, and price. For custom orders, we offer Grade A cashmere and Baby Cashmere for brands seeking the finest possible handle.

Let’s break down what each grade really means, and what you’re paying for.

What Determines Cashmere Grade?

Cashmere grading is based on three key factors:

• Fibre diameter (measured in microns)

• Fibre length

• Consistency and purity of the fibre batch

The finer and longer the fibre, the softer, lighter, and more luxurious the finished garment will feel, and the higher the cost.

Grade A Cashmere: The Finest Standard

Fibre diameter: typically around 14–15 microns

Fibre length: long, consistent fibres

Handle: exceptionally soft, smooth, and lightweight

Price: highest among standard grades

Grade A cashmere is what most people imagine when they think of “true luxury”. It drapes beautifully, pills less, and feels incredibly soft against the skin. Because the fibres are so fine, the yarn requires more careful handling and commands a higher price.

At CH Cashmere, we offer Grade A cashmere for all custom orders, ideal for brands wanting to elevate their premium collections.

Grade B Cashmere: Quality with Practicality

Fibre diameter: around 16–18 microns

Fibre length: slightly shorter than Grade A

Handle: soft, warm, slightly more robust

Price: more accessible

Grade B cashmere still offers the softness and warmth cashmere is known for, but with a touch more structure and durability. It’s an excellent choice for everyday knitwear, especially pieces that need to withstand regular wear.

This is why most of our ready‑made wholesale knitwear is crafted from Grade B cashmere, it delivers quality without pushing price points beyond reach, making it ideal for small to medium fashion brands building a commercial yet elevated collection.

Baby Cashmere: The Ultra‑Luxury Option

Fibre diameter: around 13–14 microns

Source: the first combing of young Hircus goats

Handle: unbelievably soft, cloud‑light, rare

Price: premium due to scarcity and delicacy

Baby cashmere is the pinnacle of softness. Harvested only once in a goat’s lifetime, it’s significantly rarer than standard cashmere. The result is a fabric with an almost weightless feel, a favourite for brands creating heirloom quality knitwear or ultra‑premium capsule collections.

At CH Cashmere, Baby Cashmere is available for custom orders for brands seeking the absolute finest fibre on the market.

Why Cashmere Grade Matters for Fashion Brands

For small to medium fashion labels, choosing the right grade is about more than cost, it’s about positioning.

• Grade B helps you offer accessible luxury with healthy margins.

• Grade A elevates your premium line with a noticeably finer handfeel.

• Baby Cashmere allows you to compete with top‑tier luxury houses.

Understanding these differences empowers you to price confidently, market honestly, and build collections that align with your brand identity.

How CH Cashmere Supports Small to Medium Fashion Brands

We know that flexibility is crucial for emerging and independent labels.

That’s why CH Cashmere offers:

• No‑MOQ ready‑made knitwear wholesale

• Small‑MOQ custom orders — just 50 pieces per colour across 3–4 sizes

• Access to Grade A and Baby Cashmere for bespoke designs

• Expert guidance on fibre selection, yarn behaviour, and product development

Whether you’re building your first cashmere capsule or refining an established collection, we’re here to help you make informed, confident choices.

Cashmere is an investment, for brands and for customers. Understanding the differences between Grade A, Grade B, and Baby Cashmere allows you to design collections with intention, communicate value with authority, and choose the right materials for your market.

At CH Cashmere, we’re committed to helping brands create knitwear that feels as good as it looks, with transparency, craftsmanship, and flexibility at the heart of everything we do.