Run your fingers across the surface of our new brushed cashmere tee, and you'll immediately understand why this technique has captured the attention of discerning women worldwide. Where traditional cashmere offers smooth, sleek luxury, brushed cashmere introduces a tactile dimension that transforms the very experience of wearing this precious fibre.
Why Brushed Cashmere, Why Now?
In Anna Murray's years of curating collections for the modern woman, she's observed a growing appreciation for texture in fashion. We're moving beyond the purely visual to embrace pieces that engage our sense of touch—garments that feel as beautiful as they look. Brushed cashmere represents this evolution perfectly: it retains all the inherent qualities we treasure in cashmere while introducing a luxurious, almost velvety surface that feels indulgent against the skin. The decision to introduce brushed cashmere to the Laing collection wasn't taken lightly. This technique requires exceptional skill, specialised equipment, and most importantly, longer cashmere fibres to achieve the signature brushed effect. It's a more complex process, but the result—a fabric that looks effortlessly casual while feeling supremely luxurious—perfectly embodies our philosophy of quiet sophistication.
The Foundation: Longer Fibres, Looser Twist
The magic of brushed cashmere begins with selecting longer cashmere fibres—typically those measuring 36mm or more. These extended fibres are essential because they provide the surface length needed for the brushing process. The yarn is then spun with a deliberately looser twist than traditional cashmere, creating a structure that allows the fibres to be gently coaxed to the surface during finishing.
The Japanese Influence
The brushing process itself relies on a specialised wash imported from Japan—a testament to the precision required in this technique. This carefully formulated solution helps condition the fibres, making them more receptive to the brushing process while maintaining their integrity and softness.
The Brushing Process
Once the cashmere has been treated with the Japanese wash, it undergoes the brushing process. These treatments often include multiple rounds of washing and conditioning, as well as specialised brushing techniques that align the fibres and create a velvety finish. The result is a surface texture that's both visually appealing and remarkably soft to the touch.
How Brushed Cashmere Differs from Traditional Cashmere
Cashmere Visual Distinction
Where traditional cashmere presents a smooth, uniform surface, brushed cashmere offers a subtle textural depth. The brushed surface creates a gentle play of light and shadow, giving the fabric a lived-in, approachable quality while maintaining its inherent elegance.
Tactile Experience
The difference in hand feel is immediately apparent. Traditional cashmere offers sleek smoothness, while brushed cashmere provides a slightly fuzzy, almost peach-like surface that's incredibly soft and comforting. This texture makes brushed cashmere particularly appealing for pieces worn close to the skin.
Casual Elegance
Brushed cashmere naturally lends itself to more relaxed silhouettes. The texture complements looser fits and creates an effortless, off-duty luxury that's perfect for the modern woman's lifestyle. It's sophisticated enough for elevated casual occasions yet comfortable enough for quiet moments at home.
Styling Brushed Cashmere: A Wardrobe Integration Guide
The Art of Textural Layering
Brushed cashmere excels when paired with contrasting textures. Consider layering our brushed cashmere tee under a crisp cotton shirt for a sophisticated take on casual dressing, or pair it with smooth silk trousers for an intriguing textural contrast.
Elevating Everyday Moments
The relaxed nature of brushed cashmere makes it ideal for those in-between moments—working from home, weekend market trips, or casual dinners with friends. Its luxurious feel elevates these everyday experiences while maintaining the comfort you crave.
Seasonal Versatility
Brushed cashmere's slightly more casual appearance makes it perfect for transitional seasons. Layer it under blazers in autumn or wear it solo during mild spring days.
Travel Companion
The comfortable, relaxed fit of brushed cashmere pieces makes them ideal travel companions. They pack easily, resist wrinkles, and provide the kind of soft comfort that makes long flights or road trips more pleasant.
Caring for Your Brushed Cashmere
The beauty of brushed cashmere lies in its texture, which requires gentle care to maintain its distinctive surface. We recommend dry cleaning your garment only when required. Between wears, air your garment before storing. This will naturally release any odours.
Storage
Store brushed cashmere pieces folded (never hung) in a cool, dry place. Consider using cedar blocks or lavender sachets to naturally deter moths while maintaining the fibre's integrity.
The Laing Brushed Cashmere Experience
Our brushed cashmere tee represents a thoughtful addition to the discerning woman's wardrobe. Cut in a relaxed silhouette that skims the body without clinging, it offers the perfect balance of luxury and comfort. The brushed texture adds visual interest and tactile pleasure, making it a piece you'll reach for again and again.
This isn't just another cashmere piece—it's an invitation to experience texture, to slow down and appreciate the subtle luxury of exceptional fibre presented in an entirely new way. It's cashmere reimagined for the woman who values both comfort and sophistication, who understands that true luxury lies in the details that make everyday moments feel special.
In a world of fast fashion and fleeting trends, brushed cashmere represents something more enduring: the timeless appeal of natural fibre enhanced by skilled craftsmanship, creating pieces that will remain relevant and beautiful for years to come.
As the seasons collections develop, we'll continue to add this luxurious yarn to our range, so you can continue experience this understated elegance.