Glossary

Deutsch: Mohair / Español: Moher / Português: Mohair / Français: Mohair / Italiano: Mohair

In the Fashion context, Mohair refers to a luxurious, silky, and resilient natural fiber obtained from the Angora goat (not to be confused with the Angora rabbit). Highly prized for its luster, softness, and insulating properties, mohair is often blended with other fibers to produce high-quality textiles used in garments such as sweaters, coats, scarves, and suits. Its unique characteristics make it a favorite in both high fashion and luxury knitwear, with applications ranging from elegant formalwear to cozy winter essentials.

Unlike wool from sheep, mohair has a distinct sheen and smooth surface that gives it a lustrous, fluffy appearance—qualities that are especially desirable in fashion contexts seeking tactility, elegance, and volume.

Definition

Mohair is a protein fiber derived from the long, curly hair of the Angora goat, native to regions such as Turkey, South Africa, and Texas (USA). It is classified as a luxury fiber, often used in blends with wool, silk, or synthetic fibers to enhance both visual appeal and wearability.

Notable features of mohair include:

• High sheen and brilliance

• Excellent thermal insulation (warm in winter, cool in summer)

• Natural elasticity and resistance to wrinkling

• Low felting properties (doesn’t shrink easily)

• Natural dye absorbency, allowing for vibrant colors

Mohair is harvested by shearing the goats twice a year, and the fiber quality varies with the animal’s age—kid mohair being the finest and softest.

Recommendations

• Choose mohair for outerwear: Its lightness and warmth make it ideal for oversized coats, jackets, and long cardigans.

• Opt for mohair blends: Pure mohair can be too fluffy or itchy for some; blends with wool, cotton, or synthetic fibers enhance comfort and durability.

• Consider mohair for layering: It adds volume and texture without heaviness—perfect for fashionable layering in cold seasons.

• Use mohair in accessories: Scarves, hats, and gloves made of mohair provide warmth and visual richness.

• Look for sustainably sourced mohair: Ensure ethical practices by choosing brands that support certified mohair producers (e.g., RMS – Responsible Mohair Standard).

Key Considerations

• Softness vs. itchiness: While mohair is smooth, some people may still find it itchy—especially in high-pile garments.

• Care instructions: Mohair garments usually require hand washing or dry cleaning. Use cold water and mild detergents to preserve softness and shape.

• Storage: Store folded, not hung, to avoid stretching or misshaping the garment. Moths are attracted to natural fibers—store with cedar or lavender.

• Pilling: While mohair is relatively resistant to pilling, high-friction areas may still develop surface fuzziness.

• Transparency: Some mohair knits can be semi-transparent due to the loose weave—consider layering for opacity.

• Seasonal use: While warm, mohair is breathable, making it suitable for transitional weather—not just deep winter.

Risks and Challenges

• Shedding: One of the most common complaints about mohair is fiber shedding, especially when new or heavily brushed. This can leave fuzz on other clothing.

• Allergic reactions: Although rare, people with wool sensitivity may react similarly to mohair.

• Cost: Mohair is more expensive than standard wool due to limited production and manual harvesting.

• Ethical sourcing: The mohair industry has faced scrutiny over animal welfare. Supporting certified farms is crucial for conscientious consumption.

• Durability concerns: While elastic, mohair fibers can break under repeated strain if not cared for properly.

• Color fading: Despite good dye absorption, long-term sun exposure can cause mohair colors to fade.

Similar Terms

• Angora: Comes from the Angora rabbit—not to be confused with mohair—and is even softer and fluffier but less durable.

• Cashmere: Another luxury goat fiber, from the Cashmere goat, known for ultra-softness and warmth but lacking mohair’s sheen.

• Alpaca: A smooth, silky fiber from the alpaca animal, offering similar warmth but a different handfeel.

• Brushed wool: Sometimes mimics mohair’s fuzzy appearance but is heavier and less lustrous.

• Bouclé: A textured yarn that can contain mohair, creating a curly or looped surface ideal for coats and suits.

Fashion Usage and History

Mohair has a long tradition in luxury fashion, dating back to its introduction to Europe in the 16th century, and its popularity surged in the 1960s and 1970s with fuzzy, colorful sweaters and mod-style coats. Today, it is embraced by both heritage brands and contemporary labels for its ability to combine comfort with high-impact visual design.

Modern fashion designers use mohair to:

• Add dimensional texture to minimalistic silhouettes

• Create bold, expressive knitwear in bright hues

• Elevate traditional tailoring with a tactile twist

• Introduce retro references, echoing past decades of mohair use

In menswear, mohair is often used in suit fabrics, especially in blends with wool, creating a soft luster ideal for eveningwear. In womenswear, designers incorporate mohair into romantic, oversized sweaters, drape knits, and vintage-style cardigans.

Summary

In the fashion world, Mohair is a premium natural fiber known for its shimmering finish, insulating properties, and distinctive texture. Sourced from the Angora goat, it serves as a cornerstone in both luxurious knitwear and high-end tailoring, beloved for its elegance and lightness. While it demands attentive care and ethical consideration, mohair remains a symbol of timeless sophistication and tactile richness—whether in bold runway looks or everyday winter staples.

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