Cashmere has long been admired as one of the world’s most desirable fibres. Yet in recent years, its reputation has been clouded by mass production and a race to lower prices. The result has been an increase in low-quality garments that wear out quickly, alongside significant environmental strain. Studies show that cashmere has an ecological impact around one hundred times higher than wool, and while a single sheep can yield enough fibre for five wool sweaters, it takes four goats to produce just one in cashmere.
The growing demand has placed intense pressure on Mongolia’s fragile grasslands. Herds have multiplied beyond what the land can sustain, leaving it at risk of desertification. In pursuit of volume and lower cost, some companies have turned to alternative methods in other regions, sacrificing transparency, quality and authenticity.
At MANDKHAI, we believe luxury is never about mass production. Each piece is made in small quantities, allowing us to preserve the finest quality and honour the resources that make Mongolian cashmere so special. Our work is rooted in long-standing, trusted relationships with the nomadic communities who care for the herds. Their knowledge of the land and their deep respect for the animals ensure both the wellbeing of the goats and the purity of the fibre.
As conversations in fashion continue to explore more responsible practices, we believe there is another path. One that continues to support local herdsmen at a fair price, protects the animals and maintain balance to the grasslands.
Real luxury is not about more. It is about better. And perhaps the question we should all be asking is: what does luxury mean to us today?