If you’re unfamiliar with the material, 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.
What’s even better is that many designers and direct-to-consumer brands like Everlane and Stella McCartney have committed to ethical and sustainable cashmere practices so that you can not only look good in your cashmere of choice but feel good about it too. Below, we’ve pulled together a handful of stylish sweaters to invest in. This mix of classic silhouettes will stay fresh season after season and includes yummy oversized turtlenecks from Vince and Allude, crewnecks from Tory Burch and The Frankie Shop, alongside perfect polos from Alex Mill and Toteme and cult-favorite cardigans from Khaite and Proenza Schouler. Festive Fair Isle finds that easily transition from the streets to the slopes are also up for grabs.
Whether you’re planning for a winter weekend spent in the snow, snuggly staying put in the city, or just simply looking to treat yourself or a loved one this holiday season, here are 44 of the best cashmere sweaters to consider that are as chic as they are cozy.
Classic Crewnecks
The easy, comfortable fit of a classic cashmere crewneck cannot be understated. A standout of the season is Tory Burch’s statement red sweater that packs a colorful punch. Uniqlo and J.Crew come through with timeless picks in grey and camel, while Gabriela Hearst’s navy blue bouclé crew has all the makings of an heirloom addition.
Roomy Turtlenecks
In the colder months, there’s nothing like cozying up in a yummy oversized cashmere turtleneck. Treat yourself to sumptuous options from Vince and Allude; for a similar look for less, turn to reliable favorites Everlane and Cos. Pair any of these oversized silhouettes with a tapered trouser or a body-skimming maxiskirt for sartorial success.
Chic, Cozy Cardigans
Cozy cashmere cardigans are a favorite among the street style and celebrity set. Who could ever forget the time Katie Holmes iconically stepped out in the Khaite Scarlet cardigan with a matching bralette? Other cardigans that stand out just as much include Nili Lotan’s slate gray cashmere cardigan, La Ligne’s notably neutral knit, and a sleek black number from Cuyana. Wear your cashmere cardigan of choice with a lived-in pair of baggy jeans and sleek black boots.
Polished Polos
Prepster dressing is always a top trend thanks to a crop of polished knit polos, like these cozy cashmere choices below. Alex Mill keeps it buttoned up, while polos from Toteme and Banana Republic feature deep V-necks. Meanwhile, Loulou Studio Aksi polo is an It item in any industry insider’s winter wardrobe, styled best with a matching pleated pant and a pair of menswear-inspired penny loafers.
V-Necks
We can thank Bottega Veneta for bringing the V-neck sweater back. Take styling cues from the heritage brand and wear one from Guest in Residence, Naked Cashmere, or Lisa Yang with a minimalist midiskirt and a pair of over-the-knee boots. The result? A look that is both stylish and smart.
Sweater-Vests
For winter and beyond, it turns out that a sleeveless sweater-vest is as practical a layering piece as it is statement making. The vest in all its glory is having a moment now, but none are as luxurious as these cashmere picks from Lisa Yang, The Row, Jardin des Orangers, or Guest in Residence. Styling tip: Throw a well-loved white T-shirt underneath for casual, yet cool daytime look.
Boat Stripes
A statement striped sweater should be a staple in your winter wardrobe—or any wardrobe for that matter. Of course, Everlane’s striped cashmere classic is at the top of our list, though, the options from Kule, Anine Bing, and Extreme Cashmere are equally desirable. Think beyond nautical summer fashion and style yours for winter with suede boots and a chic camel coat.
Fair Isle Finds
The Fair Isle sweater has long been a cold-weather wardrobe essential, worn by skiers on the slope to stylish street stylers alike. This season, festive options from Khaite, Suzie Kondi, Cos, and more capture the winter spirit exceptionally well.
Hoodies and Zip-Ups
For an effortless daytime look, find any of these neutral-colored cashmere hoodies and zip-ups from J.Crew, Khaite, Linnea Lund, and more. The slouchy fit feels perfectly undone, pairing well with a sleek jean to even a leather midiskirt. You could even style the staple for nights out with a kitten-heel boot and minimalist handbag.
Sustainable Practices
When shopping for cashmere, it’s important to always consider its source. For House of Dagmar, sustainability is a core value, as seen with this luxurious black turtleneck. Then, there is Everlane’s elevated essential, which features the luxurious touch and feel of classic cashmere while using more than 90% fewer raw-material carbon emissions. Reformation is also committed to sourcing only environmentally conscious cashmere in its sweaters—and same goes for Stella McCartney, a brand best known for pioneering sustainable practices and designs.
Bonus Points: Cashmere Sweater Dresses
And for that all-in-one-outfit formula we all know and love, look to super chic cashmere sweater dresses from Chloé, Loulou Studio, Lisa Yang, and Reformation. A++ if you tie your newly-minted cashmere sweater over your shoulders, too.