Pashmina symbolizes a blend of Indian tradition and a premium feel, while faux pashmina is an alternative solution to high-end pashmina products at an affordable price range. It is important to recognize the difference between the two to understand which one is right for you. Check out this blog to learn more about both pashmina and faux pashmina.
What is Pashmina?
Pashmina is luxurious wool obtained from a rare breed of Himalayan goats known as the Changthangi goat, which lives at high altitudes of more than 3500 meters in the regions of Kashmir, Ladakh, Tibet, and Nepal. Pashmina is the processed form of cashmere wool, which is the rawest form of wool obtained from special Kashmiri goats. When these goats start feeling uncomfortable due to the hair growing on their skin in the summer season, they naturally shed their undercoat.
The hair is removed from their body without harming the goats and is sent to local Kashmiri women for cleaning and combing, where hardworking Kashmiri artisans transform the cashmere into pashmina. Pashmina products are globally renowned for their exceptional features like a soft and lustrous texture, unmatched warmth, lightness, durability, and a touch of royal elegance.
Pashmina is more expensive than regular woolen shawls because the hand-weaving technique used by Kashmiri artisans is thousands of years old and has been passed down by their ancestors. It is considered the cultural heritage of India and has also received the GI (Geographical Indication) tag due to its incredible qualities.
However, people are often deceived by sellers who sell fake pashmina products at the price of real pashmina. Buyers who are unaware of the difference between real and artificial pashmina can be exploited by these sellers.
What is Faux Pashmina?
Faux Pashmina is an alternative to 100% pure Pashmina, made from synthetic or blended fabrics like polyester, viscose, blended wool, acrylic, etc., that mimic the appearance of the original Pashmina. The need for faux Pashmina arose in the 20th century when people began following fashion trends intensely. Not everyone can afford Pashmina, as it is a premium product offering a luxurious feel. On the other hand, faux Pashmina is offered as a budget-friendly replica of original Pashmina. Both China and India are the main producers of faux Pashmina, supplying the world on a large scale.
Faux Pashmina has a soft and shiny texture, similar to authentic Pashmina, and offers good durability while being easy to maintain. However, faux Pashmina, while versatile and convenient, has some environmental concerns, such as non-biodegradability and water pollution. Additionally, artificial Pashmina raises ethical issues related to animal welfare and traditional production techniques. Faux Pashmina is durable, widely available, and pocket-friendly.
Key Differences between Pashmina and Faux Pashmina
Material Composition
Pashmina: Pashmina is made from 100% cashmere wool and is the finest version of cashmere. It is soft, lightweight, and a durable option.
Fake Pashmina: Artificial Pashmina is made from synthetic or blended materials such as polyester or blended wool.
Texture and Feel
Pashmina: Pashmina feels incredibly soft with a delicate texture, providing an exceptionally warm feel and a luxurious look.
Fake Pashmina: Fake Pashmina may feel uneven or not as warm, although it may resemble the original Pashmina in appearance.
Price
Pashmina: Pashmina is generally more expensive due to the unmatched craftsmanship of Kashmiri artisans, the sourcing of Pashmina material, and its incredible features.
Faux Pashmina: Faux Pashmina is a more affordable version of pure Pashmina and is easily available to everyone.
Durability and Maintenance
Pashmina: Pure Pashmina requires special care. From washing and drying to storage, proper care improves its longevity.
Faux Pashmina: Faux Pashmina is easy to maintain and is resistant to wear and tear.
Environmental and Ethical Considerations
Pashmina: Pashmina is a sustainable fashion option, and its production involves the rarest breed of goats that live in a specific geographical location.
Faux Pashmina: Faux Pashmina is a vegetarian alternative, but the synthetic materials used in its production may raise environmental concerns, as they take longer to decompose.
How to Differentiate Between Pashmina and Faux Pashmina
Texture Test: Real Pashmina is soft, lightweight, and smooth to the touch, while fake Pashmina may also feel soft but has a rough or coarse texture.
Burning Test: You can verify its authenticity through a burning test. When burned, real Pashmina emits a smell similar to burnt hair, whereas fake Pashmina melts when exposed to fire.
Price Check: Pashmina is generally more expensive, while fake Pashmina is more budget-friendly.
Certification Label: Look for the GI tag label, which is present on every product of authentic Pashmina to verify its authenticity.
Which One Should You Choose?
Pashmina: If you are a fashion enthusiast who loves investing in long-lasting fashion statement accessories and values culture and tradition, then genuine Pashmina is an excellent choice. Pashmina is also a great option as a gift; it has been considered one of the most premium gift items since the time of the Mughal Empire, where great kings and queens used to present it as a precious token.
Faux Pashmina: Faux Pashmina is the perfect choice for budget-conscious buyers who seek style and enjoy keeping up with the changing trends of the modern fashion world.
Conclusion
Authentic Pashmina is a luxurious fashion symbol, while Faux Pashmina is a practical solution. Both have their own benefits and limitations, catering to different customer bases. If you want to embrace cultural heritage as part of your fashion wardrobe, explore our wide range of 100% pure Pashmina products. On the other hand, if you prefer attractive and affordable options, check out our uniquely designed Faux Pashmina pieces. The decision is entirely yours. We are dedicated to delivering stylish collections to our valued customers.