Super soft cashmere is the ultimate Christmas gift and Maiyet’s knits make a difference in more ways than one.

Imagine a divinely tactile cashmere hoodie with just the right proportions and a pair of joggers to match, or knee grazing ivory white scarf with a ribbed knit that will protect you against polar climes? Or how about a deep burgundy dressing gown coat to wrap over a slip dress for evening or lounge around in at home? Our collaboration with Maiyet promises to fulfill those Christmas wish lists.

Maiyet is not just another brand. The American company is carving out an intelligent niche in the artisanal luxury field and has sustainability at the heart of its business. Maiyet sources from Kenya, India, Indonesia, Peru, Italy and New York in an effort to bring some of the world’s best craftsmen and ethically sourced materials - in this case the finest cashmere (called FAIR) from Outer Mongolia - under one fashion brand.

The company was set up in 2011 by an interesting cross web of talents. The founders are Kristy Caylor, a former head of merchandising for Gap Accessories and Product RED, Paul van Zyl, a South African human rights lawyer and entrepreneur, Daniel Lubetzky. Their mission was to seek out global craftsmen and translate their prowess to create a viable, modern luxury brand. A healthy business and mentoring would, in turn, help sustain employment in many areas of the world where the shift to mass manufacturing is wiping out artisanal as well as farming and herding skills.

This meshing of luxury and social consciousness is not easy to manage. Designs often fall into the granola bracket; or the ‘worthiness’ somehow pales the indulgence factor. “The product’s quality and design comes first and should stand on it’s own two feet so people would want to buy it regardless of craft and story that goes into it,” maintains Caylor. The collection focuses on pieces that would have longevity in one’s wardrobe – the type of fluid easy sweaters, wrap maxi cardigans and vests that one would wear and wear again.

All wrapped and waiting under a tree - we keep our fingers crossed and hope that Santa reads our Christmas lists.