What are cashmere sweaters made from?

Think cashmere is totally different from wool? Think again! Cashmere is a specific type of wool that’s made from specific goats (cashmere and pashmina goats, to be specific). Cashmere is known for its soft feel and warm, yet breathable nature.

How long do cashmere sweaters last?

It's said that a cashmere sweater could last at least 10 years if you take care of it properly. Usually, this means sticking to dry cleaning or hand washing with cold weather and drying flat.

Do cashmere sweaters shrink?

Cashmere is a naturally delicate material (this is part of why it's so enjoyable to wear), so it's very sensitive to being washed or dried incorrectly. Even washing cashmere in warm water can cause it to shrink (hot water is even worse, of course), as an article on the site Sewing Is Cool, explains. Stick to washing the cashmere in cold weather and avoid dryers and you should be good, though.

What's the best way to store cashmere sweaters?

As with any sweater, never store your cashmere sweaters on hangers as it could cause the items to stretch out over time and affect their shape/fit. Instead, neatly fold them and store them flat in a drawer or on a shelf. Waldman also suggests adding a cedar square to your sweater drawer as an alternative to mothballs, which are traditionally used to keep pests out of wool and other natural fiber clothing. Waldman also says to make sure to tell your dry cleaner to always fold the sweaters flat for pick-up (instead of placing them on a hanger with other items).

The 17 Best Cashmere Sweaters of 2023

Commerce Photo Composite — Byrdie / Lecia Landis

There’s just something about a cashmere sweater that feels special. Even just the idea of a cashmere sweater can convey a feeling of warmth, luxury, and style. This could be because owning a cashmere sweater can be a bit of an investment. Not only is the material itself expensive (though there are more affordable cashmere options than ever if you know where to look), but the idea of spending money on something that is very often dry clean-only feels pretty fancy, too. Throwing on a cashmere sweater can instantly elevate an everyday outfit or even just boost your mood in a way that other types of materials can’t.

Because cashmere can run more expensive than other types of materials or clothing, it can be overwhelming to know where to begin when it comes to finding your perfect sweater. Should you invest in the most expensive option, or find a sweater that gives you more bang for your buck? Should you go for a cardigan, crew neck, turtleneck, or V-neck? Needless to say, cashmere shopping can be overwhelming if you don’t know where to start.

Alex Waldman, the co-founder of Universal Standard, says the most important qualities to look for are fit and form. “Look for a sweater with a cleaner silhouette, so it offers ease when layering, but it is snug enough to wear without a base layer, allowing you to feel the softness of the cashmere against your skin.” After considering dozens of different options, and consulting with style experts for top-rated picks, we rounded up the best cashmere sweater options, in a range of styles and budgets.

Our Top Picks

Best Overall:

Universal Standard Essential Cashmere Crew at Universalstandard.com

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Best Budget:

Naadam The Essential $75 Cashmere Sweater at Naadam.co

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Best Turtleneck:

Polo Ralph Lauren Cable-Knit Cashmere Turtleneck at Bloomingdales

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Best on Amazon:

Jennie Liu 100% Cashmere Long Sleeve V Neck Sweater at Amazon

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Best Funnel Neck:

Cuyana Single-Origin Cashmere Funnel Neck Sweater at Cuyana.com

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Best Henley:

Leimere Tribeca Henley at Leimere.com

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Best Splurge:

Lafayette 148 New York Ribbed Cashmere Blend Turtleneck Sweater at Bloomingdales

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Best Polo:

Alex Mill Cashmere Polo Sweater at Alexmill.com

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Best Cardigan:

Jenni Kayne Cashmere Cocoon Cardigan at Jennikayne.com

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Best V-Neck:

J.Crew Cashmere Relaxed V-Neck Sweater at Jcrew.com

Jump to Review

In This Article

Our Picks
What To Look For
FAQ
Why Trust Byrdie?

Universal Standard

View On Universalstandard.com

Though Universal Standard just launched cashmere, it lands as the best overall option on this list for a few key reasons: At just under $100, it’s an affordable price point for cashmere, and with sizes 00-40 available, it provides a cashmere option for more bodies than any other brand on the market. In other words, it makes great-fitting, high-quality cashmere accessible to more people than ever. And what could be better than that?

Price at time of publish: $98

Material: 100% cashmere | Colors: Black, Charcoal, Forest Green, Oatmeal, Navy, Berry, Light Blue, Mustard | Care: Hand wash cold and lay flat to dry, or dry clean | Size Range: 00-40

Nadaam

View On Naadam.co

Nadaam is known for its affordable and high-quality cashmere, and this $75 is the brand’s most famous piece (it has more than 50,000 5-star reviews). Available in 11 colors and XXS-XXL, this is an everyday cashmere sweater that would be a "rich mom" wardrobe staple for decades to come.

Price at time of publish: $75

Material: 100% Mongolian cashmere | Colors: Mink, Powder Blue, Dusty Lavender, Merlot, Mustard, Mint, Sage, Holly Red, Burgundy, Pop Pink, Lilac | Care: Dry clean, hand wash cold, lay flat to dry | Size Range: XXS-XXL

Polo Ralph Lauren Cashmere Turtleneck Sweater

Bloomingdale's

View On Bloomingdales View On Ralphlauren.com

This turtleneck sweater would have been as chic in the ‘50s, ‘60s, ‘70s, ‘80s, and beyond as it is today, and that’s exactly why it’s such a good investment. Available in six colors and a wide size range, this slim-fit turtleneck would be great under a wool blazer or any other winter coat. Unlike a lot of other cashmere, this one is also machine washable, which is pretty awesome.

Price at time of publish: $598

Material: Cashmere | Colors: Martin Red, Chic Cream, Collection Camel Melange, Hunter Navy, Stadium Gray Heather, Polo Black | Care: Machine washable | Size Range: XXS-XXL

Jennie Liu Womenâs 100% Cashmere Long Sleeve V Neck Sweater

Amazon

View On Amazon

With almost 400 reviews and an average rating of 4.4 stars, Jennie Liu's V-neck sweater is one of the most popular, 100 percent cashmere sweaters on Amazon. Since this option is not too heavy or too lightweight, it strikes a happy medium.

Price at time of publish: $155

Material: 100% cashmere | Colors: Iced Berry Heather, Ocean Heather, Pine, Gray, Orange Heather, Cream, Purple, Petal Pink | Care: Hand wash cold and lay flat to dry, or dry clean | Size Range: S-XL

Cuyana

View On Cuyana.com

For a cashmere sweater that’s more on the loose, loungewear side of things, this funnel neck sweater would be excellent. Created in a family-owned Italian mill and factory that has been in business since 1885, this sweater is made from high-quality, easily traceable cashmere at a surprisingly reasonable price point.

Price at time of publish: $278

Material: 100% cashmere | Colors: Black, Camel, Cream, Green, Pink | Care: Hand wash cold and lay flat to dry, or dry clean | Size Range: XS-XL

Leimere

View On Leimere.com

Leimere creates super-cozy "cashmere-infused" staples, like this classic henley that would be perfect for layering underneath a winter puffer vest or blazer for extra warmth. While not as thick as other sweaters on the list, it's an everyday option that you can mix and match with all your fall and winter favorites.

Price at time of publish: $68

Materials: 50% modal, 25% cotton, 15% nylon, 10% cashmere | Colors: Black Heather, Fiesta, Oatmeal | Care: Hand wash or machine wash gentle cycle with like colors, tumble dry low | Size Range: XS-XL

Lafayette 148 New York Ribbed Cashmere Blend Turtleneck Sweater

Courtesy of Bloomingdale's

View On Bloomingdales View On Lafayette148ny.com

Cashmere tends to lean on the pricer side, but a quality sweater, like this one from Lafayette 148 New York, makes it all worth it. The sweater, which comes in a relaxed, ribbed pullover style, is made out of 100% pure cashmere that is soft to the touch and super warm to wear. It drapes beautifully over the shoulders, all the way down to the bottom of the ribbed hem, and flatters the silhouette.

Price at time of publish: $1,298

Materials: 100% cashmere | Colors: Date red, purple | Care: Hand wash or dry clean | Size Range: XS-XXL

Alex Mill

View On Alexmill.com View On Mohawkgeneralstore.com

With '70s trends on the rise, you won't look cooler nor more comfortable than in this cashmere polo from Alex Mill. It has a slightly relaxed fit and open collar style which makes it an effortlessly chic piece, and the colors offer everything from soft pink to versatile heather grey. It's also made with a luxe 2-ply cashmere (meaning, it has double the cashmere), and is washed for an extra soft feel and easy care.

Price at time of publish: $285

Materials: 100% cashmere | Colors: Heather Grey, Black, Pink, Oatmeal | Care: Hand wash or machine wash with no fabric softeners, hang to dry | Size Range: XS-XL

Jenni Kayne

View On Jennikayne.com

Who says cashmere cardigans are boring? This Jenni Kayne cardigan features an oversized body with a slouchy fit that make it stylish, unique, and (of course) ridiculously soft. Keep it at the office for when you're chilly (in fact, it makes a great addition to work pants) or layer it under your favorite puffer for weekend brunch.

Price at time of publish: $445

Materials: 100% cashmere | Colors: Multiple | Care: Dry clean only | Size Range: XXS-3X

Courtesy of J.Crew

View On Jcrew.com

V-neck sweaters are a must for date night, GNO, or any formal event this winter. They're simple to dress up or down, and still manage to keep you cozy as the temperature drops. J.Crew's version, in particular, was updated with an even more relaxed fit and a bit more room in the sleeves so you're always comfortable while you wear it.

Price at time of publish: $158

Materials: 100% cashmere | Colors: Multiple | Care: Hand wash | Size Range: XXS-2X

Ralph Lauren

View On Ralphlauren.com

Ralph Lauren's cashmere cable knit sweater was inspired by fisherman ropes to achieve this defining motif. It's construction is meant to be a symbol of collegiate style, so it is great to layer over white collared button-ups or draped over your shoulders if you're looking to add a preppy look to your everyday fit. You can even personalize the sweater with a monogram, too, for an additional $10.

Price at time of publish: $498

Materials: 100% cashmere | Colors: Multiple | Care: Dry clean only | Size Range: XXS-XXL

Courtesy of J.Crew

View On Jcrew.com

This fitted cashmere tank top is the perfect addition to any late fall outfits where you’re planning on layering. Imagine this paired with some high-waisted leather trousers and an oversized blazer, or even paired with some sweatpants for a low-key date night. It’s also a perfect example of how cashmere can be sexy, too.

Price at time of publish: $110

Materials: 89% cashmere, 10% polyamide, 1% elastane | Colors: Stone, navy, black, blue, charcoal, holiday red | Care: Hand wash only | Size Range: XXS-3X, runs small

Reformation

View On Reformation

If you're looking for a sweater that has sustainability in mind, then look no further. The Reformation Cropped Cashmere Turtle is crafted with 90% recycled and 10% virgin cashmere to reduce the carbon impact typically caused by conventional cashmere. Stay warm (even with its cropped, easy-to-layer style), while also being environmentally conscious.

Price at time of publish: $168

Materials: 90% recycled, 10% virgin cashmere | Colors: Multiple | Care: Dry clean or hand wash, dry flat | Size Range: XS-XL

Frame Stripe Ruched Sleeve Cashmere Sweater

Courtesy of Nordstrom

View On Nordstrom View On Bergdorfgoodman.com View On Frame-store.com

Short sleeves sweaters are a modern twist to your typical long-sleeve sweater, as they're great for when you don't want to layer or want to stay warm without sacrificing style. This one from Frame elevates short sleeves with voluminous ruched detailing on the sides, and a classic high crewneck.

Price at time of publish: $428

Materials: 100% cashmere | Colors: Off-white multi striped, black, magenta, brown | Care: Dry clean only | Size Range: XXS-XL

Italic

View On Italic.com

Italic surely brings the heat with their cashmere crewneck, as it is made from 100% 12-gauge Mongolian cashmere that is high-quality, super warm, and durable. For more context, the brand's cashmere is rated grade A, which means the longest cashmere fibers were used to ensure less piling and a softer feel overtime.

Price at time of publish: $140

Materials: 100% 12-gauge Mongolian cashmere | Colors: Navy, lilac, black, cream | Care: Dry clean only | Size Range: XS-XL

Courtesy of Alo Yoga

View On Aloyoga.com

What's comfier than a cashmere sweater? A cashmere hoodie, especially this one from Alo Yoga. Designed with a dropped shoulder, extended ribbed sleeve cuffs, and a kangaroo pocket, relaxation is the one word to define the hoodie's fit and feel. Make it a full set with their matching Jet Set Pants, or on its own with a pair of jeans or those comfy sweatpants of your choice.

Price at time of publish: $300

Materials: 100% cashmere yarn | Colors: Dove grey, black, navy, expresso| Care: Dry clean or hand wash in cold water, do not twist or wring, roll in towel to remove excess moisture, lay flat to dry, do not iron | Size Range: XS-L

Brochu Walker Nye Vest Layered Looker Shirt

Courtesy of Neiman Marcus

View On Brochuwalker.com View On Neiman Marcus View On Shopbop.com

Vests are easy to style in the winter as you can either wear them on their own or layered over your favorite blouse, but this one from Brochu Walker does all the work for you as it comes with a striped, button-up poplin shirt underneath. It is also designed to be oversized for easy layering, and versatile enough for you to reach for everyday.

Price at time of publish: $398

Materials: 70% wool, 30% cashmere | Colors: Otter melange | Care: Dry clean only | Size Range: XS-L

Meet the Expert

Alex Waldman is the co-founder and creative director of Universal Standard, which claims to be the most size-inclusive clothing brand on the market.

What to Look for in a Cashmere Sweater

Fit

Most people know that cashmere is a high-quality, specialty fabric, but not everyone understands why exactly that is, or how this fact should change how they shop for a cashmere sweater, for example. As Waldman explains, the most important thing to consider when cashmere shopping is fit.

“This is a piece you’ll have for years, so you want to ensure that the fit is just right,” Waldman explains, noting that at Universal Standard, the choice to design a cashmere sweater that wasn’t too loose or too tight was very intentional. “Look for a sweater with a cleaner silhouette, so it offers ease when layering, but it is snug enough to wear without a base layer, allowing you to feel the softness of the cashmere against your skin.”

Composition

Cashmere is luxurious because of its soft-to-the-touch feel, but also because of its breathability. Choosing a 100 percent cashmere sweater or cardigan means you get both of those qualities in one cozy package, but be sure to check the fabric makeup on any given item, as cashmere blends are quite popular as well. There are hundreds of high-quality, well-made cashmere blend pieces, but if you want 100 percent cashmere, then you should double-check that you’re definitely getting it.

FAQ

What are cashmere sweaters made from?

Think cashmere is totally different from wool? Think again! Cashmere is a specific type of wool that’s made from specific goats (cashmere and pashmina goats, to be specific). Cashmere is known for its soft feel and warm, yet breathable nature.
How long do cashmere sweaters last?

It's said that a cashmere sweater could last at least 10 years if you take care of it properly. Usually, this means sticking to dry cleaning or hand washing with cold weather and drying flat.
Do cashmere sweaters shrink?

Cashmere is a naturally delicate material (this is part of why it's so enjoyable to wear), so it's very sensitive to being washed or dried incorrectly. Even washing cashmere in warm water can cause it to shrink (hot water is even worse, of course), as an article on the site Sewing Is Cool, explains. Stick to washing the cashmere in cold weather and avoid dryers and you should be good, though.
What's the best way to store cashmere sweaters?

As with any sweater, never store your cashmere sweaters on hangers as it could cause the items to stretch out over time and affect their shape/fit. Instead, neatly fold them and store them flat in a drawer or on a shelf.
Waldman also suggests adding a cedar square to your sweater drawer as an alternative to mothballs, which are traditionally used to keep pests out of wool and other natural fiber clothing. Waldman also says to make sure to tell your dry cleaner to always fold the sweaters flat for pick-up (instead of placing them on a hanger with other items).

Why Trust Byrdie

Olivia Muenter is a fashion commerce contributor for Byrdie, and she has been published in Refinery29, Bustle, Fashionista, Glamour, and Woman’s Day, among others. Her research for this piece covered cashmere retailers of all types. For criteria, she evaluated customer reviews, size inclusivity, price point, and style.

According to our Diversity Pledge, 15% of products in our newly-published market roundups will feature Black-owned and/or Black-founded brands. At the time of publishing, we weren’t able to find enough cashmere sweaters from a Black-owned and/or Black-founded business to meet that percentage. If you know of one we should consider, please email us at contact@byrdie.com and we will evaluate the product ASAP.

These Are the 18 Best Winter Coats on Amazon, According to 6 Stylists

Best Overall

Universal Standard Essential Cashmere Crew

Best Budget

Naadam The Essential $75 Cashmere Sweater

Best Turtleneck

Polo Ralph Lauren Cable-Knit Cashmere Turtleneck

Best on Amazon

Jennie Liu 100% Cashmere Long Sleeve V Neck Sweater

Best Funnel Neck

Cuyana Single-Origin Cashmere Funnel Neck Sweater

Best Henley

Leimere Tribeca Henley

Best Splurge

Lafayette 148 New York Ribbed Cashmere Blend Turtleneck Sweater

Best Polo

Alex Mill Cashmere Alice Polo Sweater

Best Cardigan

Jenni Kayne Cashmere Cocoon Cardigan

Best V-Neck

J.Crew Cashmere Relaxed V-Neck Sweater

Best Cable Knit

Ralph Lauren Cable Knit Cashmere Sweater

Best Tank

J.Crew Cashmere Sweater-Tank

Best Cropped

Reformation Cropped Cashmere Turtle

Best Short Sleeve

Frame Stripe Ruched Sleeve Cashmere Sweater

Best Crewneck

Italic Essential Cashmere Crewneck Sweater

Best Hoodie

Alo Yoga Cashmere Jet Set Hoodie

Best Vest

Brochu Walker Nye Vest Layered Looker Shirt

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