Silk vs Cashmere: Differences, Prices & Uses

Key Takeaways

• Unlike cashmere, which shines in the chill of winter, silk’s airy, breathable nature makes it a year-round favorite.

• Mulberry silk production uses less water and land, skips harsh chemicals, and follows a low-waste circular model, making it kinder to the planet than most cashmere supply chains.

• Both silk and cashmere are luxury investments, but silk often wins on value. It’s more durable, easier to care for, and offers more versatility, which can save money over time.

• Silk goes beyond winter wear, flowing effortlessly into elegant dresses, luxe bedding, and home décor, while cashmere tends to stay in the cold-weather lane.

• Mayfairsilk sets the gold standard, offering award-winning 100% Grade 6A pure Mulberry silk, crafted with sustainable methods that blend world-class quality, eco-conscious production, and timeless style.

Origins & Production Processes

Silk is a natural protein fibre spun by silkworms that feast primarily on mulberry leaves. The art of silk production, known as sericulture, begins with the careful cultivation of mulberry trees and extends to the harvesting of silk cocoons. Among the many varieties, mulberry silk stands out for its exceptional smoothness and luminous sheen, making it a favorite for luxury textiles. 

Cashmere, on the other hand, comes from the soft undercoat of cashmere goats, which thrive in cold, mountainous regions. During the molting season, these fine fibres are gathered through combing or shearing, then processed into one of the softest and warmest wools in the world.

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Texture & Feel

Silk is loved for its sleek, slippery texture and natural gloss that seems to capture and reflect light effortlessly. It feels cool and breathable against the skin, making it comfortable to wear in both warm and cool weather. 

Cashmere offers a completely different kind of indulgence—its plush, fluffy softness wraps you in warmth and cosiness, creating the perfect fabric for chilly days. The tactile experience of each is distinct too. Silk whispers luxury with its glide, while cashmere embraces you in gentle warmth.

The lustrous sheen and fluid drape of silk demonstrates why this fabric feels so cool and luxurious against the skin.

Durability & Longevity

Silk is surprisingly strong for such a delicate-looking fabric, especially in high momme varieties. With proper care, it can retain its beauty and integrity for many years, resisting the wear that often dulls other fabrics. 

Cashmere, while equally luxurious, is more delicate in nature. It’s prone to pilling, particularly with frequent wear, and requires careful handling to preserve its softness and elegant look over time.

Environmental Impact & Sustainability

Silk, especially the kind produced by Mayfairsilk, leaves a lighter mark on the planet compared to cashmere. It uses less land, water, and chemicals, thanks to mulberry trees that grow without pesticides or synthetic fertilisers, relying mainly on rainwater. In sustainable production, nothing goes to waste. Lower-grade silk becomes duvet filling, and leftover mulberry stems are turned into livestock feed or fertiliser. 

Processing stays chemical-free, avoiding harmful dyes, bleaches, and pesticides. Even byproducts like sericin protein are repurposed for cosmetics and pharmaceuticals, creating a circular system. Mulberry trees also help absorb carbon dioxide, and silk itself is fully biodegradable, unlike cashmere production, which in some regions contributes to overgrazing and land damage.

Pricing

Silk sits firmly in the luxury category, with prices reflecting its painstaking production and refined feel. In the UK, high-quality silk fabric can range from £15 to £150 per metre, depending on its type and finish. For finished products, silk pillowcases often cost between £54 and £105, while a full bedding set can range anywhere from £275 to over £1,125. 

Cashmere fabrics vary widely, from £19 per metre for blends to £500 per metre for the purest, heaviest weaves. Its final price tag depends on factors like fibre content, weight, and whether it’s pure or mixed with other fibres such as wool.

Note: The price ranges mentioned above are approximate and subject to change over time and across different locations. Costs may vary based on factors such as pricing policies, the provider's experience, and evolving market conditions.

Uses in Fashion & Textiles

Silk is the definition of versatility in the luxury fabric world. It drapes beautifully, lending elegance to dresses, blouses, skirts, ties, scarves, and lingerie, while its natural sheen elevates formalwear. 

Gentle on sensitive skin and adaptable in all seasons, it also shines in luxury bedding, pillowcases, and high-end upholstery. Even small accessories like hair scrunchies, headbands, and eye masks benefit from its smooth, protective touch. 

Cashmere, on the other hand, is the king of winter warmth. It’s most often found in sweaters, cardigans, scarves, shawls, gloves, hats, and coats, plus a few ultra-soft blankets and throws. Its heat-retaining nature makes it less suited for bedding or summer wear.

Cashmere's soft, warm texture makes it perfect for cosy winter clothing but less ideal for bedding or summer wear.

Care & Maintenance

Silk, especially high momme varieties, is easier to look after than many expect. A gentle hand wash with silk-friendly detergent or a trip to the dry cleaner keeps it looking vibrant, and storing it in breathable bags away from moisture prevents snags. Naturally resistant to dust mites, it’s an excellent bedding choice. 

Cashmere needs a gentler hand: cold water washes, flat drying, and folding rather than hanging to avoid stretching. It’s prone to pilling, so de-pilling now and then keeps it looking refined. Because moths love natural wool, extra storage precautions are a must.

Silk vs Cashmere Comparison Table

Why Choose Mayfairsilk for Your Luxury Silk Needs

Mayfairsilk beddings bring everyday luxury and comfort into your daily routine.

Mayfairsilk is dedicated to designing the finest British luxury silk products using Grade 6A pure Mulberry silk, celebrated for its smooth feel, strength, and natural sheen. Our pillowcases feature a sumptuous 25 Momme weight, while our sheets and accessories are crafted with 22 Momme silk, giving you both comfort and lasting quality.

Our collection includes silk pillowcases, bedding sets, eye masks, and hair accessories, all designed to bring a touch of elegance and comfort into everyday life. Every piece is made with sustainability in mind, using chemical-free processes and biodegradable materials that are gentle on the planet.

Over the years, our commitment to exceptional craftsmanship has earned us awards and loyal customers who value the combination of beauty, durability, and eco-friendly practices. Mayfairsilk offers the kind of luxury you can feel in every touch, perfect for treating yourself or gifting someone special.

Shop our collections today!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is silk or cashmere better for year-round use?

Silk is the better choice for all-year comfort, thanks to its lightweight, breathable, and temperature-regulating properties. Cashmere excels in winter for warmth but is less versatile across seasons.

Why is silk considered more sustainable than cashmere?

Silk production, especially from mulberry trees, uses fewer resources, avoids pesticides and harmful chemicals, and operates in a low-waste cycle. Cashmere production can lead to overgrazing, land degradation, and higher environmental impact.

Which fabric requires more maintenance?

Cashmere is more delicate and prone to pilling, requiring careful washing and occasional de-pilling. Silk, while still requiring mindful care like gentle washing or dry cleaning, tends to retain its beauty and structure for longer.

What are the main uses of each fabric?

Silk is used for luxury apparel, lingerie, formal wear, accessories, bedding, and home décor. Cashmere is mostly used in winter garments like sweaters, scarves, coats, and gloves.

Why choose Mayfairsilk?

At Mayfairsilk, we specialise in Grade 6A pure mulberry silk products, including 25 momme pillowcases, 22 momme bedding, silk eye masks, and hair accessories. Our products are crafted with sustainable, chemical-free processes and have been recognised by multiple consumer and industry awards. Choosing Mayfairsilk means choosing elegance, durability, sustainability, and the smoothness only premium mulberry silk can provide.