The Distinctive Beauty of Donegal Cashmere

Heritage Threads, Modern Craft

At Johnstons of Elgin, craftsmanship has shaped our story for over two centuries. Among our seasonal offerings is our Donegal Cashmere Knitwear, a distinctive blend of natural fibre craftsmanship and richly textured character. Donegal represents a unique chapter in the story of Scottish knitwear - one that speaks of heritage, individuality, and understated luxury.

What Is Donegal Cashmere? 

Donegal yarn, traditionally spun in the northwest of Ireland, is renowned for its multicoloured neps and flecks, which create a beautifully mottled effect. Neps are small, colourful flecks or knots of fibre that are intentionally added to the yarn to create a textured, speckled appearance. These neps are typically a contrasting colour to the base yarn, giving the finished fabric a tweed-like effect. When these artisanal yarns are crafted in 100% pure cashmere by our expert teams in Scotland, the result is a knitwear collection that combines visual richness with extraordinary softness.

The irregularity of each yarn run ensures that no two garments are ever exactly alike. Each piece carries subtle nuances in tone and texture, making Donegal Cashmere not only enduringly stylish but also deeply personal. 

Why Choose Donegal Cashmere Knitwear? 

For those who appreciate knitwear with depth and story, Donegal is a compelling choice. It offers all the warmth and comfort of traditional cashmere, with an added layer of heritage-inspired texture. The tones and textures fond in Donegal are particularly suited to the cooler months, echoing the wild, natural landscapes that inspire our Autumn Winter collections. It feels familiar yet elevated—rugged refinement for city streets or countryside retreats alike.

Our Donegal Cashmere designs range from relaxed crew necks and fisherman knits to refined outerwear styles – no two pieces are the same due to the hand added neps which create a bespoke pattern in every piece. These are pieces designed to be worn, loved, and handed down. 

How is Donegal Cashmere made?

Each Donegal Cashmere garment is designed and made in Scotland using time-honoured techniques passed down through generations. We spin, knit, and finish every piece in our own mills in Elgin and Hawick, ensuring complete control over the quality, sustainability, and provenance of our products.