Sustainable Fashion 101: How to Build a Sustainable Cashmere Wardrobe

April 14, 2025

Ariunzul Enkhbaatar

Head of Sustainable Development Division

Ariunzul Enkhbaatar

Head of Sustainable Development Division

As the Head of the Sustainable Development Division at GOBI Cashmere, Ariunzul is committed to upholding responsible and ethical practices throughout every stage of cashmere production. She spearheads initiatives in environmental protection, social responsibility, and ethical governance while collaborating closely with herders to promote sustainable sourcing. Deeply passionate about Mongolian culture and the livelihoods of the herders who make cashmere possible, she shares stories of their traditions, the artistry behind cashmere garments, and how GOBI Cashmere remains dedicated to sustainability.

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Uchral Amar

Director of Design Development Department

Uchral Amar

Director of Design Development Department

With over a decade at GOBI Cashmere, Uchral has devoted her career to designing exquisite knitwear. Beginning as a textile designer, she went on to lead the design division and now directs design development. Her extensive expertise in fashion design, coupled with years of hands-on experience, enables her to craft timeless, high-quality cashmere pieces that seamlessly fuse tradition with modern innovation. She offers expert insights into cashmere fashion, design trends, the creative journey behind each garment, as well as how to wear, care for, and fully appreciate cashmere.

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Understanding Sustainable Cashmere

The fashion industry is shifting towards sustainable cashmere. Unlike conventional cashmere production, which can strain natural resources, ethically sourced cashmere prioritizes responsible herding and eco-conscious production practices.

This change is crucial as consumers are increasingly aware of the environmental and ethical implications of their clothing selections.

What is Sustainable Cashmere?

Sustainable cashmere is sourced through responsible and ethical methods that support the environment and local communities. These include sustainable grazing to prevent land degradation, ensuring cashmere goats' welfare, and providing herders with fair wages. Brands like GOBI Cashmere are dedicated to using these ethical practices to deliver high-quality, long-lasting products.

Unlike fast fashion cashmere, which often involves overgrazing and unethical labor practices, sustainable cashmere ensures that the land remains fertile for future generations and that workers are treated fairly. Additionally, eco-friendly production (GOBI’s Organic line) methods reduce water usage and chemical pollution, making sustainable cashmere a much greener alternative.

Why Ethical Cashmere Matters in the Fashion Industry

Mass cashmere production often leads to overgrazing, land depletion, and animal welfare concerns. Ethical cashmere promotes sustainable herding, helping maintain biodiversity and supporting herders’ livelihoods. Consumers choosing ethically sourced cashmere contribute to a fashion industry that values people, animals, and the planet.

Fast fashion has created a disposable clothing culture, leading to excessive waste and pollution. However, consumers can reduce their carbon footprint by investing in sustainable cashmere while enjoying the luxurious softness and warmth of high-quality cashmere garments.

The Difference Between Ethical and Conventional Cashmere

Not all cashmere is created equal; there’s a significant difference between ethically sourced cashmere and conventional cashmere regarding sourcing, production, and environmental impact. Understanding these differences helps in making a more conscious and sustainable choice.

There’s a big difference between ethical cashmere and conventional cashmere—and it starts with how it's sourced. Ethical cashmere comes from responsibly herded goats, helping to avoid the overgrazing problems that often come with conventional practices. It’s also about how it’s made. Ethical production focuses on sustainability and ensures fair wages for workers, while conventional cashmere is usually mass-produced with lower labor standards. When it comes to the environment, ethical cashmere keeps things greener with a smaller carbon footprint, unlike conventional methods that can lead to soil erosion and even deforestation.

Consumers who prioritize sustainable cashmere know the need to support ethical practices and reduce environmental harm.

How to Identify Ethically Sourced Cashmere

With the growing demand for sustainable cashmere, ensuring that the products you purchase meet ethical and environmental standards is essential. Consumers should look for key indicators that guarantee authenticity and ethical sourcing to make informed purchasing decisions.

Certifications & Labels to Look For

When buying sustainable cashmere, check for these industry-recognized certifications that confirm responsible sourcing and eco-conscious practices:

Sustainable Fibre Alliance (SFA) – Ensures sustainable grazing practices and ethical treatment of herders and animals.
Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) – Verifies that cashmere is produced using environmentally responsible and ethical methods.
Fair Trade Certification – Ensures fair wages and ethical labor practices throughout the supply chain.
OEKO-TEX Standard 100 – Guarantees that the cashmere is free from harmful chemicals and safe for consumers.

Consumers can confidently invest in sustainable cashmere while supporting responsible fashion by choosing brands like GOBI Cashmere.

Transparency in Cashmere Brands

Brands should prioritize transparency by tracing cashmere from herders to finished garments. When shopping, consider brands like GOBI Cashmere, which openly share their sourcing, production, and sustainability efforts.

Ethical brands will provide details on where their cashmere comes from, how it is processed, and what measures they take to decrease their environmental impact.

Questions to Ask Before Buying Cashmere

Before purchasing sustainable cashmere, ask retailers:

Where is your cashmere sourced from?
Do you have sustainability certifications?
How do you ensure the ethical treatment of herders and animals?
What production methods are used to minimize environmental impact?

Below is the step-by-step guide on curating an eco-friendly cashmere collection.

Choosing High-Quality, Long-Lasting Pieces

Opt for durable cashmere that resists pilling and maintains softness over time. GOBI Cashmere offers premium, ethically sourced cashmere designed to last for years. Buying high-quality pieces instead of multiple low-quality items reduces waste and supports a more sustainable lifestyle.

Prioritizing Versatile & Classic Styles

Invest in timeless cashmere sweaters, cardigans, and scarves in neutral colors that complement any wardrobe. These pieces provide style and longevity, making them perfect for year-round wear. Classic styles help consumers build a sustainable wardrobe that doesn’t quickly go out of fashion.

Shopping from Sustainable Cashmere Brands

Brands like GOBI Cashmere are committed to ethical cashmere sourcing, ensuring every product supports sustainable herding and fair labor practices. Choosing such brands helps promote responsible fashion. By supporting brands prioritizing ethical production, consumers can encourage more businesses to adopt sustainable cashmere practices.

Supporting sustainable cashmere encourages brands to adopt ethical production practices, reducing environmental impact. Consumers prioritizing ethically sourced cashmere help drive industry change towards a greener, more responsible future.

By making informed choices, shoppers can play a significant role in promoting sustainable fashion. Opting for ethical cashmere supports fair wages, responsible herding, and reduced pollution, making it a step towards a better planet.

FAQs

What makes cashmere sustainable?

Sustainable cashmere is produced through responsible grazing, ethical herding, and eco-friendly manufacturing processes that protect the environment.

How can I tell if my cashmere is ethically sourced?

Look for certifications like SFA and GOTS, and buy from brands like GOBI Cashmere, which prioritize transparency in sourcing.

Which brands offer ethical cashmere?

Brands like GOBI Cashmere focus on ethically sourced cashmere, ensuring fair wages, responsible herding, and high-quality products.

Is sustainable cashmere more expensive?

While sustainable cashmere may have a higher upfront cost, its durability and ethical benefits make it a better long-term investment.

How do I take care of my cashmere sustainably?

To care for cashmere sustainably, follow these care tips:

Washing: Hand wash or use a gentle machine cycle with lukewarm water (20°C/70°F) and a mild cashmere shampoo. Avoid soaking for too long.
Drying: Gently squeeze out excess water and lay flat to dry; never wring, tumble dry, or hang.
Ironing: Use a steam iron with a slight gap between the iron and fabric.
Pilling: Pilling is natural; remove it with a cashmere comb or by hand.
Storage: Fold cashmere instead of hanging it, store it in a garment bag, and protect it with moth repellents.

Does ethical cashmere feel different from regular cashmere?

Ethical cashmere maintains the same softness and warmth but is produced with higher sustainability and ethical standards. By making smart, conscious choices, every consumer can contribute to a more sustainable and ethical fashion industry.