UK: Pure Merino Wool Shawls Hot for Summer 2008

The beauty of merino wool apparel is that it can be worn almost all year round. The only time one would not want to wear merino wool is when it is sweltering outside, and for most people, that is in the heat of July and August; even then, a merino shawl with a vest or t-shirt will work wonders. When the weather is warm, there are plenty of lightweight merino wool clothes that will keep cooler than typically thought possible.

The production of wool is a valuable endeavor and there are many countries that are involved in raising sheep for merino wool. Australia is the number one wool producing country followed closely by China and New Zealand. Other countries that are known for their wool are Argentina, Turkey, Iran, England, India, the Sudan, South Africa and the United States. Organic wool is experiencing a boom in demand although this blend of wool is rarely produced. Most organic wool originates in Australia or New Zealand.

Pashmina International is proud to announce their initial range of Merino Wool shawls, produced from Indian and Australian flocks. The shawls measure 28"x80" (70x200cm) and weigh in at 120gsm; tough, durable, and beautifully smooth, while light enough for summer usage. They're machine washable, and should last a lifetime. The worsted wool is pure, and not a mixture.

"So many companies market 10% cashmere, 90% goat's wool items as 'pure cashmere', or offer simply fine normal sheep's wool as merino - and the consumer suffers", says Camilla Field of Pashmina International. "We stick to our guns and only offer 100% merino wool shawls - and they are SO soft!"

The merino shawls are available in four colors: Black, Oyster, Pink Coral, and Rich Turquoise. Pre-orders have already taken a large part of the supply for these items, which are offered at Pashmina International's standard direct-from-factory pricing.

Design house Unconditional, who supply clothes worn by the likes of Cameron Diaz, Madonna, Kelis and Sheryl Crow have this year taken up the merino wool brand and are heavily pushing it, as well as other natural fibres such as cashmere. Their proviso is to stick to items produced as naturally as possible, using pure high quality fibers and natural dyes, and the celebrity endorsement is a significant stamp of approval for merino wool.

Pashmina International specialises in genuine cashmere/silk pashmina shawls and scarves. Free worldwide shipping is available on every order, and all the garments are fuzzy, soft, and lightweight. There are no artificial fibers in the scarves, and Pashmina International operates a strict no-child-labor policy, which includes strict standards and personal factory checks.