Can You Soften Cashmere Over Time?

One of the most seductive qualities of true cashmere is its softness — a tactile warmth that feels almost alive. But what if your shawl feels a little stiff at first? At vonoz, we often say: cashmere reveals itself slowly. And yes — with time, touch, and proper care, cashmere becomes even softer.

In this guide, we explore why some shawls start firmer, how softening naturally occurs, and how to support this gentle transformation without harming the fiber.

Why Some Cashmere Feels Less Soft Initially

Several factors influence the feel of a cashmere shawl:

• Fiber source: Himalayan cashmere tends to be finer than Mongolian blends
• Weave density: Tightly woven shawls may feel firmer at first
• Finishing method: Some shawls are not brushed or fluffed to preserve longevity
• Handspun yarn: As used in many vonoz heritage shawls, handspun yarns have a more rustic, artisanal surface at first

Does Cashmere Get Softer with Wear?

Yes. With regular, gentle wear, the fibers naturally loosen and relax. The warmth of your skin, friction from movement, and folding all contribute to:

• Breaking in the surface structure
• Increasing the fiber’s natural bloom
• Enhancing the shawl’s drape and fluidity

This is especially true for handwoven shawls from our bespoke collection, where minimal processing allows the fiber’s evolution to happen over time — with you.

How Long Does It Take?

Depending on usage and storage, most cashmere begins to noticeably soften after:

• 5–10 wears for Nepali Essence shawls
• 10–20 wears for heritage or bespoke Kani and Sozni pieces

The process is subtle — not dramatic. But like patina on leather or the seasoning of wood, the softening tells a story.

How to Accelerate Softness — Gently

If you’d like to encourage the process:

• Wear the shawl frequently around the neck and shoulders
• Steam lightly (see Steaming vs. Ironing)
• Massage gently by hand — fold, unfold, smooth with your palm

You may also hand wash the shawl (see below) — but only if the weave and dyes allow.

Should You Wash to Soften?

Washing can soften cashmere slightly — but it must be done with great care. We recommend this only for non-embroidered, undyed or colorfast shawls.

Hand Washing Method:

• Use cold water and a wool-safe detergent
• Do not wring, rub, or twist
• Lay flat to dry, reshaping the shawl

For embroidered or bespoke pieces, avoid washing altogether. Instead, steam and wear regularly to coax softness.

What Not to Do

Never:

• Use fabric softeners — they coat and degrade natural fibers
• Use hot water, bleach, or machine washing
• Expose to direct heat or sun
• Brush aggressively or try mechanical softening

Softness should be earned, not forced.

vonoz Perspective

At vonoz, we intentionally avoid aggressive industrial softening. Our shawls — especially those in the Nepali Essence Collection — are softened naturally through special post-weaving washes, but always in a way that respects the integrity of the fiber.

Conclusion: Patience is Luxury

True softness is not synthetic. It evolves, like trust. At vonoz, we invite you to experience cashmere as it was meant to be: raw, refined, and responsive — a fiber that becomes more itself with time.

Your shawl is not finished when it leaves the loom. It begins to soften — and to live — with you.

Want to know more about cashmere? See our Cashmere Knowledge Hub.