The Best Cashmere Sweaters For Women
For generations, millions have revered cashmere sweaters for their uncanny softness, versatility, and surprisingly long lifespans. Using the billowy fur from the underside of cashmere goats, manufacturers weave these exceptional fibers to create some of the most luxuriously comfortable sweaters on the planet. Whether you're looking for a thick sweater for cold weather commutes or something lightweight for milder temperatures, let our list of the best cashmere sweaters for women be your guide.
What To Look For
Now that you’ve decided you want a cashmere sweater, it’s important to know what separates good cashmere from lesser cashmere. While scouring the market to bring you this piece, we sought out sweaters that exceeded our expectations in terms of softness, sourcing, and affordability. Any cashmere sweater worth wearing should utilize high-quality fibers that possess that instantly recognizable cashmere feel — preferably without forcing you to break the bank to own it. With that said, we feel Lands’ End crewneck sweater is the best of the bunch. This fashionable slim-fitting sweater features a durable two-ply fabric construction and utilizes first-rate sourcing from Mongolian cashmere goats. On the other hand, if you’re looking for something a little more affordable, Kallspin’s V-neck might be the ideal choice for you. This sweater might not be made of pure cashmere, but thanks to its remarkable softness, durability, and comparatively low price, it can make for a worthy alternative to costlier options. Keep reading to find out what works about the rest of our favorite sweaters.
Lands’ End Cashmere Crewneck
Slim-fitting softness
One of the most important factors to consider when purchasing a cashmere sweater is sourcing. Lands’ End crewneck utilizes fibers from Mongolian cashmere goats, which many consider one of the most luxurious types of cashmere in the world. This slim-fitting sweater features ultra-soft two-ply fabric and comfortable ribbed cuffs. What’s more, this sweater has a lightweight construction, making it versatile enough for layering or wearing by itself.
Pros:
- Available in multiple colors
- Sourced from high-quality Mongolian cashmere goats
- Comfortable slim-fitting design
Cons:
- Pricier than many comparable sweaters, but you can’t argue with the quality on display here
Jennie Liu Cashmere V-Neck
Head and shoulders above the competition
If you’re looking for a casual cashmere sweater with a relaxed fit and exceptionally soft fabric, it’s hard to go wrong with this pick from Jennie Liu. This V-neck sweater features densely knitted 100% cashmere fabric that feels soft to the touch with anti-pilling fibers to protect it from general wear and tear. Sourced from supremely soft Mongolian cashmere goats, this sweater feels just as luxurious as it looks. Not to mention, the price is surprisingly reasonable for cashmere of this caliber.
Pros:
- Ribbed cuffs
- Comfortable, relaxed fit
- Available in a wide array of colors
Cons:
- The size chart might run a bit small
Sangtree Soft Cashmere Turtleneck
Bundle up
The turtleneck has stood the test of time thanks to its classy aesthetic and ability to keep your neck cozy and protected. Made by Sangtree, this particular turtleneck features a cashmere, wool, and viscose fabric blend that feels soft enough to give pricier 100% cashmere alternatives a run for their money. The fit strikes a balanced midway point between relaxed and form-fitting, making this a versatile option that can complement many outfits in your wardrobe. We also appreciate the fact that Sangtree offers this turtleneck in an eclectic selection of color options.
Pros:
- Utilizes durable 12-gauge knit fabric
- Lightweight and breathable construction
- Highly affordable
Cons:
- While still a high-quality sweater, it’s not quite as soft as 100% cashmere
Kallspin Cashmere V-Neck
Cashmere on the cheap
While cashmere is incredibly soft and comfortable to wear, there’s no denying that it can be cost-prohibitive for many folks. Luckily, this affordable alternative from Kallspin features a cashmere/wool/polyester fabric blend that can provide you with much of cashmere’s softness without the hefty price tag. With a relaxed fit and deep V-neck collar, this sweater boasts a modern design quality that feels hip and fresh. And thanks to the wool present in the fabric blend, this V-neck offers plenty of insulation and warmth retention for low temperatures.
Pros:
- Considerably more affordable than 100% cashmere alternatives
- Machine-washable
- Lightweight, yet still insulative
Cons:
- The fabric may pill over time, but a sweater shaver can help
State Cashmere Crewneck
Lightweight breathability
Thanks to its breathable feel, cashmere is one of the few sweater fabrics that people enjoy wearing year-round. State Cashmere’s crewneck boasts a delightfully lightweight construction and ultra-soft fabric feel, making it a versatile option that can complement any number of outfits in your wardrobe. What’s more, State Cashmere sources its Grade A fabric from Inner Mongolia, which is home to some of the highest quality cashmere in the world. We also appreciate that the company utilizes sustainable packaging and manufacturing methods.
Pros:
- Hefty 12-gauge knit fabric
- Comfortable relaxed fit
- Available in multiple color options
Cons:
- Hand-wash only
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is cashmere usually more expensive than other sweater fabrics?
Primarily, cashmere’s hefty price tag has to do with scarcity. During molting season, a single cashmere goat can only produce about 200-300 grams of cashmere fibers. This means that it can take the fur of four goats to create only one cashmere sweater. Not to mention, manufacturers often source their cashmere from insulated locations such as Mongolia, which can increase the cost of shipping.
What is the cashmere grading system?
Manufacturers utilize three different grades of cashmere for their garments. Grade A cashmere is the highest quality, as it possesses the longest and finest fibers. Grade B comes next, with slightly thicker fibers measuring at 19 microns in diameter. And lastly, Grade C encompasses all cashmere fibers that measure 30 microns in diameter or wider. Generally speaking, the higher the cashmere grade, the softer the garment.
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