Is There Anything Better Than a Cashmere Sweater? Shop 30+ Styles for Luxe Layering by Kristina Rutkowski and Cortne Bonilla
The best cashmere sweaters are a winter essential (and a great gift for women)—whether you’re bundled up in Brooklyn or learning lessons of layering in San Francisco, it’s one seasonal staple that every city dweller can use. From classic crewnecks to cozy cardigans, the best cashmere sweaters can bring a soothing softness to the office commute, weekend adventures, and every activity in between. And despite their reputation for having a hefty price tag, direct-to-consumer brands are creating cashmere sweaters priced around the $200 mark (and don’t forget to keep an eye out on the Black Friday clothing deals as you might be able to find a similar luxe style on sale). In other words, there’s an iteration for every occasion and outfit.
Before we get to the styles, a little background on cashmere and how it’s made: Cashmere comes from the fluffy undercoat of cashmere and pashmina goats and has been used to make yarn, textiles, and, of course, clothing for centuries. Unlike sheep’s wool, cashmere is softer and more supple, cementing its place as a luxury staple in your wardrobe. When shopping for your choice of cashmere, there are a few helpful tips to consider: First off, determine what type of style, warmth, and weight you’re after—this will be a defining factor in your sweater’s durability over time. And finally, if possible, try and get a good look at your cashmere choice in person to check for any pills, test out its touch and feel, and inspect for any loose threads in the stitching. And when it comes to caring for your cashmere, avoid any unwanted visits from moths by always washing by hand. A cashmere comb is great to keep pilling at a minimum, too.
Now that you know what to look for, the fun part happens—choosing your silhouette. Whether you’re a minimalist, relying on mainstay favorites such as the fail-proof turtleneck or V-neck sweater, or you prefer something with a little more prep to get you through the colder days, like a collared, polo-style or knitted vest, we covered all the options to bring you the best in every cashmere category.
Keep reading to find everything from the now infamous, Katie Holmes-approved Khaite cardigan, to editor favorites from Suzie Kondi, Lisa Yang, and Toteme that are fashion-forward originals. Of course, every fashionista knows that stocking up on the best basics from J.Crew, Everlane, and Madewell is always a smart idea, and won’t break the bank either, and those who want to shop sustainably will find comfort in styles from Cuyana, Arch4, and Gobi Cashmere.
Go ahead—cozy up to these impeccably soft options with our edit below of the best cashmere sweaters to shop now.
Boat Stripes
A statement striped sweater should be a staple in your winter wardrobe—or any wardrobe for that matter. Of course, cool-girl brand Kule’s striped cashmere classic is at the top of our list, though, the options from Everlane and Madewell are equally desirable. Think beyond nautical summer fashion and style yours for winter with suede boots and a chic camel coat for long walks in the park or fashionable work attire for those days in the office.
Kule The Lucca sweater $358
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