Wool is a commodity that has transcended cultures and eras, survived every fashion extreme. Wool is a fiber collected from different breeds of goats and sheep, consisting of their fur, and turned into textile fabrics later cut or spun into yarns. It is distinct from its brother fiber, cashmere, as it is coarser, and rougher. Wild sheep are more hairy rather than wooly and thus, the domestication of sheep aided in more being bread specifically for their wooly coats. Evidence for domestication and selection for Wookiee sheep has been found as far back as 6000 BC.
Prior to sheers Wool was gathered with bronze combs by hand. A great deal of a wool items value was in the dye job, and finishing of the product. The various methods and steps it took to create a wool garment eventually turned into different practices and trades. The textile trade for wool grew tremendously in the 15th century, however by the 20th century, especially with the creation of synthetic fibers and fabrics, wools value began to decline.
Because of wools delicate care requirements, and new technologies inability to meet these, wools popularity continued to decline, causing sheep farmers to seek alternate incomes from their flocks, such as going into the meat industry more heavily. However, there has been a steady rise amounts designers and wool producers to meet these concerns and find ways around them. Such as preshrunken wool, or even wool that could be washed at home in ones own shower (as is the case with a wool suit developed in Japan in there early 2000s). Wool is a commodity that has served purpose in a plethora of uses.
From insulation on garments, to creating warmer clothing or blankets, to being used in damp environments due to its ability to still keep the wearer warm when wet. Wool is a fabric that has a rich rich history and continues to grow with us. We will have plenty of incredible wool pieces at out mad about plaid event on August 19th, so don’t miss out on snagging yourself a ticket! Tickets go on sale tomorrow and can be purchased in store.
Most Everything Vintage 
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