WHY CASHMERE IS PERFECT TO WEAR IN THE SUMMER

Ming Liu describes why cashmere's heat regulating and layering properties make it an essential part of any summer wardrobe.

Cashmere may be synonymous with winter but the material is earning a reputation as a summer essential too - and it's easy to see why. Cashmere's best qualities - fine, soft texture, beautiful lightness, unerring insulation - work wonders all year round.

Firstly, consider insulation. The allure of cashmere has always been that it's steadfastly warm but never hot - reliably taking one from skiing in sub-degree climates to cosying up by the fire with a schnapps. The material, by nature, is temperature regulating born from the ultra-fine undercoat hairs of cashmere goats that live mainly Inner Mongolia, where seasonal temperatures fluctuate widely. These insulating undercoats, sitting below an outer layer that keeps the goats dry, have been naturally developed so that the animals stay warm in winter but keep cool in summer. N.Peal uses the finest and longest cashmere fibres combed from goats' coats as they naturally shed when the weather warms in spring. Breathable and lightweight, cashmere in summer is ideal for layering - a dressing must for long summer days and balmy nights. N.Peal's superfine and fine-gauge cashmere sweaters and colourful, patterned pashminas are fabulous transition pieces between seasons as we enter into the summer. Draping and effortless, they're versatile travel companions, chicly taking one from an over air-conditioned hotel lobby to outdoor market shopping. They'll also look great on deck - working as a nonchalant cover-up by day and a stylish, stargazing warmer by night.

Now that we can venture out into the world again, cashmere is reminding us what an excellent piece it is for city living and daily life. Cue N.Peal's cashmere blazers and gilets for men that have a throw-on-and-go vibe - suitable for pounding the pavement running errands and then immediately looking smart for that afternoon Zoom call. The design is casual and sporty but, thanks to cashmere's finely woven threads, the blazers retain a structured silhouette, which keeps shape wonderfully to deliver that unique sense of relaxed tailoring.

There's something spontaneous and indulgent about wearing cashmere off-season, like having a fire going during the summer months. So wear your cashmere, unapologetically, all year round. For men, a good place to start building your summer cashmere collection is with N.Peal's chic, classic staples - the polo or crew neck T, or a fine gauge mock turtle neck or v-neck jumper - perfect for dinner alfresco. For women, opt for the sleeveless roll neck top, ultra-feminine wrap or a luxuriant cashmere maxi dress. All will have you feeling spoiled, pampered and - in the most welcome way - wishing for winter to come ASAP so you can layer up even more.

Be spontaneous this summer and add cashmere into your summer wardrobe. Shop N.Peal’s vast collection of cashmere pieces, including the wraps, sweaters and blazers Ming Liu recommends, and receive bespoke wrapping on all orders.

Ming Liu writes about luxury and style for How To Spend It, New York Times and CNN Style