The 11 Finest Cashmere Sweaters, Examined and Reviewed


Cashmere is the Chardonnay of sweaters: it’s easy, buttery tender, and opulent. That mentioned, whereas it’s often regarded as a higher-end product, it’s by no means been extra accessible. Whether or not your finances is $50 or $500, you don’t must look far or huge to discover a sweater so as to add to your journey wardrobe. I reside in Montana, some 5,000 miles from Mongolia (the place the world’s finest cashmere comes from), however I’ve not less than a dozen cashmere sweaters in common rotation. 

As a result of cashmere isn’t an entry-level materials like cotton, searching for a cashmere sweater might be intimidating. But it surely doesn’t must be. I just lately collaborated with Journey + Leisure editors, who’re additionally big followers of this premium material, to check and distinction one of the best of one of the best for touring. We examined and traveled with an array of cashmere sweaters representing completely different types, suits, and value factors. Beneath are our high picks, together with a 100% cashmere sweater for lower than $100 from Naadam, a sustainable cashmere model based by two school children who backpacked round Mongolia in 2013 and returned with an excellent enterprise concept.  

Naadam The Original Cashmere Sweater

PHOTO: Naadam

When you requested AI to create a cashmere sweater that checks all of the containers, affordability being one of many containers, it might provide you with Naadam’s Authentic cashmere sweater. The one motive somebody wouldn’t like this sweater can be in the event that they had been allergic to cashmere. A medium weight that isn’t too skinny or too thick, it’s the sweater even the additional discerning Goldilocks would have settled on. Whereas the value has come up a bit because it debuted at simply $75, it’s nonetheless a steal, and it’ll by no means exit of fashion. T+L editor Hillary Maglin can see it being a wardrobe workhorse for a decade or extra.

Select from greater than two dozen colours, together with an array of restricted version seems to be similar to electrical pink, tomato crimson, and brown sugar. It’s the perfect size for a entrance tuck, and it runs true to measurement. Undecided what measurement you might be? As a substitute of simply that includes chest and hip measurements, Naadam’s useful measurement information allows you to enter your top, weight, and age to calculate your bust measurement and subsequent measurement. What does Naadam imply? Naadam is a conventional pageant held yearly in Mongolia. In reality, it’s acknowledged for its intangible cultural heritage by UNESCO, which says the occasion’s rituals and customs “intensify respect for nature and the surroundings.” Naadam sources its sustainable cashmere from the Gobi Desert, the place the model’s founders as soon as discovered themselves staying with herders whereas backpacking within the East Asian nation. 

The Particulars: 2XS to 2XL | 100% Mongolian cashmere

Everlane The Boxy Crew in Cashmere

PHOTO: Everlane
What to Take into account

  • Some buyers, together with our tester, discovered it runs barely giant; measurement down if you happen to’re in between sizes. 

Even when we’d introduced in a tailor, senior editor Jackie Cucco couldn’t have been extra glad with this sweater’s match. She discovered the relaxed fashion to be actually comfortable and simple to put on. And because of the outsized silhouette, it is easy to pair with virtually every part she examined it with, together with trousers, denims, and clothes. The additional-thick ribbing on the hems provides some texture, and the sleeves are a bit on the lengthy aspect, so you possibly can roll them up if you happen to like that look. 

Select from greater than a dozen colours, together with contrasting stripes, and take into account that it’s a mid-weight sweater, so it’s finest for shoulder season days. Whereas the Good Cashmere Commonplace-certified cashmere on this sweater comes from Mongolia, Everlane is clear about the truth that the sweater itself is made in China. Nonetheless, the model is simply as clear about which particular manufacturing unit it really works with. It employs greater than 700 folks and has been a associate of Everlane’s since 2011. 

The Particulars: 2XS to 2XL | 100% Grade A Mongolian cashmere mix, together with 70 p.c recycled cashmere and Good Cashmere Commonplace-certified cashmere

State Cashmere The Ribbed Crewneck Cashmere Sweater

PHOTO: State Cashmere

Craftsmanship is what separates this thicker ribbed sweater from different ribbed sweaters. Select from 4 colours, all neutrals, and relaxation assured, you gained’t have purchaser’s regret. T+L affiliate editor Anna Popp has traveled with it on numerous journeys, and regardless of the frequent use, it nonetheless seems to be prefer it’s in mint situation. Along with being sturdy, this best-seller from State Cashmere is flexible, making it not simply a journey wardrobe staple, however a wardrobe staple basically. Whereas the ribbed look immediately elevates, it’s not misplaced at Complete Meals or a yoga studio. 

I’ve been an enormous fan of State Cashmere because it was based in New York Metropolis practically 10 years in the past, and I really like that it was the brainchild of an American school pupil with Mongolian heritage. In reality, Hao Rong’s grandparents raised cashmere goats. In contrast to firms that mass produce in big portions, Rong hones in on high quality and “acutely aware consumption,” even when it impacts the model’s backside line. State Cashmere’s complete ladies’s assortment options simply 16 merchandise, solely obtainable in a handful of colours. 

The Particulars: S to XL | 100% interior Mongolian Cashmere

White+Warren Cashmere Crewneck

PHOTO: White+Warren

Depart it to White+Warren — whose prospects embrace the likes of Emma Stone, Angelina Jolie, and Jennifer Garner — to create a cashmere sweater so heat you’ll end up welcoming a chilly spell. Just like the model’s iconic journey wrap, a best-seller since 1999 and one among our favourite journey blankets, this cashmere crewneck is as tender as it’s cozy. It’s additionally not fundamental, which makes it simpler to justify the larger value. “I like that the collar and sleeves have accent patterns so it’s not one huge knitted design,” T+L editor Taylor Fox mentioned. The again additionally has a pleasant ribbed element working down the center. 

Select from eight colours, and observe that you could be have to roll up the cuffs because the sleeves are additional lengthy. In reality, we discovered your complete sweater to run giant. Nonetheless, that’s good if you happen to plan on carrying a layer beneath. Whereas the White+Warren Cashmere Crewneck sweater doesn’t include a coupon without cost dry cleansing, it does include a complimentary cotton mud bag for journey and storage. 

The Particulars: XS to XL | 100% responsibly sourced Mongolian cashmere

Ravella Winslet Cashmere Cardigan Coat

PHOTO: Ravella

When you’re searching for a trendy cardigan that doubles as a coat, can triple as a gown, and is so top quality it can grow to be a household heirloom, you’ve discovered it. Cucco says there isn’t any comparability between the Ravella Winslet Cashmere Cardigan Coat and the cheaper cashmere sweaters she owns. Maybe it’s as a result of Ravella solely makes use of Mongolian cashmere from Capra Hircus goats, the identical premium breed, trusted by designer manufacturers like Loro Piana, whose Parksville Cashmere Crewneck will set you again a cool $1,450. 

We additionally love that, along with wanting elegant, this sweater options slouchy pockets — a characteristic most cashmere sweaters don’t have as a result of they’re expensive so as to add. The elegant rib detailing additionally takes it from mid to modish, and by way of heat, the Ravella Winslet Cashmere Cardigan Coat is unquestionably on the thicker aspect. It runs true to measurement and is lengthy sufficient to cowl your thighs. Select from seven colours. Professional tip: keep away from pure white and pure oatmeal if you happen to assume you’ll be sitting someplace soiled, like on public transportation. 

The Particulars: XS to XL | 100% luxurious Mongolian cashmere from Capra Hircus goats

Jenni Kayne Cropped Cashmere Cocoon Cardigan

PHOTO: Jenni Kayne

Between its 4 trendy outsized buttons and boxy-ish match that layers properly over a wide range of tops and pairs properly with much more bottoms, the Jenni Kayne Cropped Cashmere Cocoon Cardigan is a shoo-in for one of the best cardigan we tried. That mentioned, it may additionally win the softest sweater superlative. Popp felt “tremendous comfy” residing in it, together with on a cross-country flight, whereas touring for six straight weeks. And regardless of all that put on, it reveals little tear. “The cashmere is tremendous luxe, which provides it a high-quality look and feel,” she famous. Select from eight colours, all neutrals, as Jenni Kayne prefers to make use of eco-friendly processes that require fewer chemical compounds. 

The Particulars: 2XS to 3XL | 100% Mongolian cashmere

Quince Mongolian Cashmere Crewneck

PHOTO: Quince

Like clockwork, I deal with myself to this sweater in one other coloration each spring and fall. Luckily for me, it’s obtainable in 17 attractive hues similar to mauve mist, pale denim, and a butter yellow I want I may pull off with my pale pores and skin tone. Initially, I used to be skeptical of the standard, however I used to be mistaken. Whereas I gained’t say this sweater is so well-constructed that it warrants tacking one other zero onto the tip of the value, I’ve but to get a gap in any of mine. And I’m not the exception to the rule.

By way of softness, it’s simply as tender as my costlier sweaters. That mentioned, it’s lots thinner. I don’t actually put on it in winter as a result of it’s not heat sufficient (I reside in Montana), but it surely’s the primary sweater I attain for once I’m touring someplace heat like Miami or Costa Rica the place I desire a light-weight layer to tie round my neck or stash in my bag once I’m out sightseeing and to slide on over my head once I step indoors and am greeted by the arctic blast of an over-eager AC unit. 

The Particulars: XS to XL | 100% Grade A Mongolian cashmere

Lilysilk Eshe 2-in-1 Cashmere Detachable Hoodie

PHOTO: Lilysilk

A cashmere sweater with a removable hoodie? Signal us up. Hopefully, Lilysilk gave the designer who got here up with this good concept a elevate, or on the very least, a devoted parking spot. Popp, who shouldn’t be often a fan of hoodies, is now a convert. She’s even gone as far as to say this sweater has grow to be her “go-to airplane high” and he or she wears it with the matching pants to maximise consolation. 

The hood detaches by way of buttons, immediately turning this sweater right into a basic crewneck for a wholly completely different look. Whereas Lilysilk is finest recognized for its signature silk, the model added a cashmere line in 2019. It’s a proud associate of The Good Cashmere Commonplace, an arm of the Support by Commerce Basis, which goals to make the cashmere business extra sustainable. 

The Particulars: XS to 2XL | 100% Mongolian cashmere 

Naked Cashmere Ethel Brushed Cashmere Turtleneck Sweater

PHOTO: Bare Cashmere

Popp, who likes to sport sweaters on flights since they’re the bulkiest high they pack, says carrying this brushed cashmere turtleneck is like “wrapping your self in a luxe journey blanket.” She discovered it roomy sufficient to put on a layer beneath, which is useful since this sweater isn’t meant for many who run sizzling. And in contrast to tighter turtlenecks, you’ll by no means get claustrophobic when placing it on or taking it off, and it’s much less more likely to mess up your coiffure. 

In fact, our favourite factor about this sweater is the brushed look. The ten-karat gold-tone customized attraction on the aspect additionally doesn’t go unnoticed. You should definitely observe the restricted sizing obtainable basically extra-small/small and medium/giant choices. 

The Particulars: XS/S to M/L | 100% brushed cashmere 

From Future Short Crewneck Sweater

PHOTO: From Future

From Future’s Brief Crewneck Sweater has earned me compliments on all seven continents. I purchased it at Le Bon Marché in Paris (From Future is a French model) in 2021. 4 years later, I’m nonetheless reaching for it repeatedly, although I’ve added not less than a dozen extra cashmere sweaters to my closet since then. In contrast to each different crewneck sweater I personal, this one has a wonderfully cropped match. It’s not so quick that my abdomen reveals, but it surely’s quick sufficient that I can comfortably put on high-rise pants and showcase my waist. 

I’m additionally an enormous fan of the three to 4 inches of ultra-wide ribbing on the hemline, collar, and cuffs. It provides a noticeable texture, like what you’d discover on a chunky cable knit sweater. Whereas I wouldn’t describe it as cumbersome, this sweater options four-ply cashmere, so it’s positively the thickest and warmest cashmere sweater I personal. Like Ravella, From Future solely makes use of premium fibers from Capra Hircus goats. Select from 5 colours; they promote out quick, so if you happen to see one thing you want, don’t sleep on it. 

The Particulars: XS to XL | 100% GCS-verified cashmere 

Quince Mongolian Cashmere Tee

PHOTO: Quince

In two phrases, Cucco sums up the Quince Mongolian Cashmere Tee as a “good worth.” Certainly, for the price of a sit-down lunch on the airport, you possibly can have a 100% cashmere important that appears simply as at dwelling on a Boeing 747 because it does within the boardroom. At round 16 microns thick, it’s fairly skinny. That mentioned, it’s removed from see-through, and since it’s so light-weight, it means you possibly can nonetheless be sporting cashmere come summer time. In any case, tees are supposed to be worn 12 months per yr. 

Granted, not like common tees, this one is additional tender and fitted and options high-quality ribbed detailing on the neckline, hem, and sleeves. When you’ve got an older Quince cashmere piece — the model has been in enterprise since 2018 — simply know this cashmere is an improved model. Quince spent two years re-engineering it to make it extra sturdy. Select from 15 colours, together with ivory that you could be end up carrying greater than your favourite white tee. 

The Particulars: XS to XL (additionally obtainable in 1X to 3X) | 100% Grade A Mongolian cashmere

Our Testing Course of

The entire cashmere sweaters we examined are owned by T+L editors and writers who’ve worn them extensively, whether or not at dwelling or on the highway. Even when we’ve solely had them for a number of months, they’ve traveled the world with us and have been put to the check in a wide range of environments. Softness, match, consolation, fashion, and sturdiness are among the many attributes we’ve checked out, and we’ll proceed to gather and evaluate our insights within the coming months. Personally, I personal cashmere sweaters from 5 of the manufacturers talked about above, and lots of extra from manufacturers whose sweaters didn’t make the lower. 

Ideas for Shopping for a Cashmere Sweater

Search for 100% cashmere

Today, cashmere is a little bit of a buzzword, and lots of sweaters marketed as cashmere are literally cashmere blends that includes lower-quality (and scratchier) materials. If you’d like one of the best, search for a cashmere sweater that’s labeled as 100%. Very similar to champagne should come from a sure area in France, cashmere is barely cashmere if it comes from particular breeds of goats. Most cashmere is sourced from China and Mongolia, the place finest practices (for the goats, herders, and environments) aren’t all the time used. For that motive, attempt to purchase from manufacturers that supply sustainable cashmere. Respected manufacturers might be clear about the place they get their cashmere from and label their merchandise as Good Cashmere Commonplace-certified

Outline your finances

Make your search much less nerve-racking by crunching the numbers earlier than you begin including something to your procuring cart and even take into consideration stepping foot in a becoming room. Most cashmere sweaters price over $100. With 100% sweaters beginning at round $40, Quince persistently has probably the most reasonably priced possibility. That mentioned, when figuring out how a lot you possibly can spend, remember the price of maintenance. For instance, I spend $9 per sweater each time I dry clear it (roughly three to 4 instances per yr). 

Regularly Requested Questions

  • How do I wash a cashmere sweater?

    Like many delicate materials, cashmere should be washed in chilly water utilizing a light detergent. Most tags on cashmere merchandise say “hand wash solely,” however there’s a studying curve. When you’re not comfy handwashing and subsequently laying out your sweater to air dry, positively take your cashmere sweater to the dry cleaner. It gained’t be low cost to wash, but it surely’s often pristine when it’s returned. I’ve but to have a dry cleaner mess up any of my cashmere sweaters, whereas I’ve shrunken a number of sweaters and been upset by lingering odors after hand washing at dwelling. 

    Some sources on-line will say you possibly can wash cashmere in washing machines with out a middle agitator. Nonetheless, I’ve by no means been glad with how they arrive out, and so they have a tendency to tablet extra once I wash them at dwelling in comparison with when the dry cleaner washes them. When you do resolve to scrub a cashmere sweater in a washer, contemplate investing in a mesh bag to maintain it contained. And once more, ensure you use a light detergent with no harsh chemical compounds or bleach. 

  • How can I inform if cashmere is high-quality?

    The quickest technique to inform if cashmere is high-quality is to really feel it. Larger-quality cashmere isn’t scratchy. When you have a look at it intently, it must also have a tighter weave and retain its form if you happen to stretch it. Sadly, it’s onerous to inform if cashmere is high-quality simply by it, and if you happen to purchase it on-line, you gained’t have the ability to really feel it. Luckily, firms and types that use premium cashmere will often have info on their web sites; usually talking, the extra particulars offered — size of fibers, ply, and gauge — the higher the sweater. 

  • What’s one of the best ways to retailer cashmere sweaters?

    Neglect felt hangers. One of the best ways to retailer cashmere sweaters is to fold them and retailer them in a canvas bag or field. Ensure they’re clear — soiled sweaters can entice unwelcome critters — and utterly dry (you don’t need mildew both). Personally, I preserve mine in a paper-lined cedar chest as a result of cedar oils naturally repel moths. That mentioned, my cedar chest is fairly full at this level, so I’ll both have to get one other one or look into choices like these cashmere sweater storage baggage.

Why Belief Journey + Leisure

For this story, Katie Jackson and T+L editors divided and conquered to check an array of cashmere sweaters representing 11 completely different classes. Jackson grew up elevating sheep on a ranch in rural Montana, and whereas she hated shearing them (her favourite chore was bottle-feeding lambs), she realized to understand pure fibers at a younger age. She’s labored as a full-time journey author since 2015 however has but to cross Mongolia off her bucket checklist. On the high of her Christmas checklist, in the meantime, is all the time a present certificates to her native dry cleaner (whom she’s on a first-name foundation with).

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