FALLing in love with Brora cashmere

It is Wool Week in these parts and since my minor in University was Fiber Arts, you can bet I am celebrating! Thanks to the Brora A/W 2011 preview invite from my lovely twitter friend and neighbor- London fashion blogger Ashley fromPink Julep Abroad, I am celebrating in cashmere.

The event was held at the Chelsea Brora store just off the King's Road last Thursday where a small group of bloggers gathered to indulge in champagne & macaroons while looking at the new A/W line and getting a chance to learn about the company from the inspiring company founder Victoria Stapleton.

Victoria hand picks the blends of cashmere fibers that make up Broras color palette, about 20 a season, and those colors are pulled through the entire collection as chunky-knit cardigans, tweed waistcoats and dresses with re-worked Liberty of London prints. All come together for a very on-trend collection. As proof positive Florence Welch of Florence and the Machine has even lent a hand in one of their print designs. Some of my favorite picks from their color story this year are Blueberry, Peacock, Spice & Mustard, but you can pick out yours here.

Brora cashmere is made in Scotland at mills which make cashmere for big luxury brands like Chanel. The cashmere at Brora has the same quality of those brands, but retail for a tiny fraction over the price. Besides price, the major difference between Brora and other luxury fashion brands is its small-family-business atmosphere. With almost all the products being made in Britain, the mills, factory and design team all work closely together with Victoria to produce their fantastic products. As an added bonus, and my favorite detail, Brora baby hats, booties and some cardigans are hand knit by Scotsman. Its these personal touches mixed in with literally the thickest, softest cashmere that really make Brora special.

Since autumn has seemed to hit London this week, I am enjoying my lush new Brora cashmere lace tights in 'chocolate' to stay warm & cosy. Oh and since you asked, I would like this cardigan for my birthday next month:

I think it would be the perfect pumpkin replacement for Starbucks pumpkin spice lattes which are sadly missing from this fair isle.

Brora fall items are online here but since these jawns are begging to be touched & tried on- check out the line at the Brora London's Fashion Night Out tomorrow in their Marlybone shop and you'll meet the super-nice Victoria Stapleton yourself!