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The best cashmere sweaters are a winter essential—whether you’re bundled 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 $100 mark. In other words, there’s an iteration for every occasion and outfit.
Vogue’s Cashmere Sweater Wish List:
- The Classic Crewneck: Jardin des Orangers classic crewneck, $245
- The Roomy Turtleneck: Joseph grey turtleneck, $1045
- The Polished Polo: Khaite Joey Cashmere Sweater, $158
- The V-Neck: Guest in Residence The V cashmere sweater, $395
- The Sweater Vest: The Row Balhalm Cashmere Vest, $890
- The Striped Sweater: Everlane The Cashmere Boxy Crew Sweater, $198
- The Fair Isle Find: Suzi Kondi Jooshi Jacquared Knit, $2,195
- The Sustainable Sweater: Reformation Giusta cashmere cable-knit cardigan, $295
- The Lightweight Style: LouLou Daphne Cable-Knit Cashmere Cardigan, $495
This season, the trending splash of red takes shape in the form of a cherry-red crewneck cashmere sweater, which can even be worn as an accessory around the waist or over the shoulders. The classic stripe sweater makes its yearly comeback with La Ligne and The Elder Statesman, and Fair Isle styles are reimagined by Dôen, Suzie Kondi, and Khaite. Ivy-inspired looks are made complete with polo-style sweaters from Alex Mill and Lisa Yang, sweater vests and V-neck looks from Guest in Residence, and the forever-stylish, button-up cardigan from Agnés B. And finally, a few brands like Stella McCartney, Everlane, and Cuyana are reinventing how cashmere comes to life through new sustainable practices.
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.
Whether you’re looking for that trending splash of red or a new everyday stripe, the below edit meets all your cashmere needs.
Classic Crewnecks
The easy, comfortable fit of a classic cashmere crewneck cannot be understated. A standout of the season is Naadam’s statement red sweater that packs a colorful punch. J.Crew and Guest in Residence come through with timeless picks in navy and cream, while Jardin des Orangers’ black 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 Joseph and Nili Lotan; for a similar look for less, turn to a reliable favorite from Everlane. Pair any of these oversized silhouettes with a tapered trouser or a body-skimming maxiskirt for sartorial success.
Cozy Cardigans
Cozy cashmere cardigans are a favorite among the street style and celebrity set—and while it’s hard to forget the time Katie Holmes stepped out in a beige oversized pick from Khaite, it’s the prim and proper silhouettes we’ve seen on the runways that speak most to us right now. Other standout cardigans include La Ligne’s ribbed cashmere cardigan, The Elder Statesman’s pastel stripe, and a sleek black pick from Cuyana. Wear your cashmere cardigan of choice with a lived-in pair of baggy jeans and sleek black boots.
Polished Polos
Ivy dressing is always a top trend thanks to a crop of polished knit polos, like these cozy cashmere choices below. Alex Mill, Éterne, and Khaite keep it buttoned up, while Lisa Yang’s iteration features a deep V-neck. Whichever you choose, the polo sweater 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-Neck Sweater
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, or get the look for less with Everlane or J.Crew. Style it 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 few are as luxurious as these cashmere picks from Lisa Yang, The Row, 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, La Ligne, and Toteme 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 Dôen, Suzie Kondi, Khaite, 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 Extreme Cashmere, sustainability is a core value, as seen with this cozy cream sweater. Then, there is Nadaam’s elevated fisherman sweater, which is fully traceable and made from 100% Mongolian cashmere, meaning the fibers used are all from a single source.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.
Lightweight Spring Styles
Spring is around the corner (even though it may not feel like it is), which means transitional wardrobe pieces are key. Thinner cashmere sweaters are ideal for layering, and LouLou Studio seems to have written the book on versatile sweaters — their cable knit cashmere cardigan is an equally stylish and breathable look for spring. Eterne and Khaite also incorporated lighter styles into their collections this season, and the never-fail striped crewneck from Khaite is also an easy one to wear into warmer days.
