News — wool

Wool's reputation for itchiness puts some people off — but the right wool knit can feel soft and comfortable all day. Here's why itch happens and how to avoid it.

Why some wool itches

Itch usually comes down to fibre thickness. Coarser, thicker fibres have stiffer ends that prickle the skin. Finer wool fibres bend instead of poking, so they feel soft. The knit and finishing matter too.

How to choose soft wool

• Feel before you commit — a quality fine-gauge wool should feel smooth, not scratchy
• Look for soft-handle finishing and a clean surface
• Cashmere blends add...

A great sweater is an investment you reach for again and again. Whether you are choosing cashmere or wool, a few simple checks will help you buy something that looks refined and lasts. Here is what to look for.

1. The fibre

Natural fibres — cashmere and wool — breathe, insulate and age beautifully in a way synthetics cannot. Feel the fabric: it should be soft without feeling thin or fuzzy, and spring back when you gently stretch it.

2. Gauge & weight

Gauge is how fine or chunky the knit is. A fine gauge gives a sleek, layerable sweater;...

Wool and cashmere are both natural, warm and beautiful — but they feel and behave differently. If you are deciding between them, here is a clear, practical comparison to help you choose.

What they are

Wool comes from sheep. It is springy, resilient and naturally insulating, with a fibre that holds its shape well. Cashmere comes from the soft undercoat of cashmere goats. Its fibres are finer and lighter, which is why cashmere feels so soft against the skin.

Warmth

Cashmere is remarkably warm for its weight — lightweight yet insulating, ideal for layering. Wool is also very warm and...