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Discovering Pashmina Fashion AccessoriesFor some strange reason, the term "pashmina" has become a too-often-used name for essentially any fashionable shawl, wrap, stole or scarf. It is this typical generic use of the word that creates confusion and frustration among unsuspecting pashmina shIn essence, pashmina is actually the type of fabric itself, and that is a type of wool taken from a specific breed of goat found naturally in the high altitudes of the Himalayan Mountains. Because the animals live over 14,000 feet above sea level, these special goats grow a thin, inner coat of hair that insulates them during the long, harsh Himalayan winters. It is this unique inner coat of hair that is used to produce authentic pashmina accessories. Each hair is about 1/6th the diameter of most other types of hair - but is still surprisingly durable while being stunningly soft and comforting to human skin. For thousands of years, the fleece from the goat has been utilized in the production of high quality fashion accessories such as shawls, wraps, and scarves. For thousands of years, these shawls have been produced mainly in Kashmir and Nepal. In Nepal, they are called "pashmina" and in Kashmir, they are often called "Kashmiri wool shawls What is known as a pashmina may be an accessory composed of pure pashmina or a pashmina/silk blend. The blend ratio can vary, but the most common is 70% pashmina wool and 30% silk. A pashmina shawl will typically be about 36"x80", a wrap/stole is about 28"x80", and a scarf/muffler will be around 12"x80". A pashmina is a very versatile accessory, whether it be a shawl, wrap, or scarf. The most popular website showing examples of how to wear one is from the television show "Oprah". You can find this on the web at http://www.oprah.com/tows/pastshows/tows_2000/tows_past_20000306_c.jhtml and it is well worth a visit for the fashion fan. Pashmina care is actually fairly easy and with proper care a pashmina can last a long, long time. While dry-cleaning is suggested, you may wash in cold water and a gentle shampoo, such as baby shampoo. Be careful if there are any tassels since they may unwind. Then lay the item flat to dry, do not wring dry. A warm iron is okay, but it is best to put a piece of paper or fabric between the iron and the pashmina. Store your pashmina in a bag away from moisture and light, as well as damaging insects. Once you have worn one, you will most likely become a pashmina addict. They are truly a wonderful way to dress up even a casual outfit or to accentuate more formal attire. They look great and feel even better. Article Directory: http://www.articledashboard.com Blair Rhodes has been involved in the pashmina business since 2000 with The Pashmina Store, one of the leading online pashmina retailers in North America. They specialize in Nepali 100% pure pashmina and pashmina silk blended fashion accessories such as shawls, wraps, scarves and blankets. After earning an MBA at the University of Texas at Austin, Blair travelled with his family to Nepal and Kashmir, where they discovered the joys of the culture and the traditions of quality pashmina production. This lead to the eventual formation of the pashmina business and the sharing of this wonderful luxury item with North American fashion lovers. Permalink: http://expert-talk.com/tips/893/discovering-pashmina-fashion-accessories-25893.htm Related Tips and Advices
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