12 Best Cashmere Sweaters for Women 2023

The 12 Very Best Cashmere Sweaters for Women From wardrobe staples to bright color-blocked sweaters.

In this article:

Best overall

Best turtleneck

Best striped

Best cardigan

Best polo

Best made out of recycled

Best fun

A cashmere sweater is a timeless, resilient, and seasonless investment that can last for decades (provided you protect it from moths). However, selecting the ideal one can be daunting since you're paying a premium for this inherently luxurious essential. The higher price tag for cashmere is due to the fact that cashmere yarn is sourced from the soft undercoat of cashmere goats, resulting in a more delicate and warmer fiber compared to sheep's wool. Interestingly, cashmere goats represent a type rather than a breed; as per the Cashmere Goat Association, nearly all goats can produce cashmere, but only selectively bred herds yield it "in significant quantities."

Numerous brands now offer more budget-friendly alternatives. To ensure you're not compromising quality for a lower price, I sampled sweaters from some of the leading affordable brands as well as a few luxury options to gauge their performance. I primarily evaluated the feel, weight, and durability of each sweater. (Please note: I've had the sweaters for varying durations, ranging from a couple of months to just one week. I'll provide updates on this aspect over time.) Additionally, I consulted with fashionable individuals to determine which sweaters they believe are worth the investment or fall short in quality. Continue reading to discover our selections across all price ranges.

What we’re looking for:

Sizing:

In our quest to find the best, we are seeking sweaters that offer a diverse range of sizing options to accommodate everyone. 

Quality:

As previously mentioned, the feel and weight of a cashmere sweater are essential factors to consider. Cashmere quality is distinguished by grades: A, B, and C. Grade C is the lowest, with each cashmere hair measuring approximately 30 microns in width. Grade B measures around 18 to 19 microns per cashmere hair, while Grade A, the highest, is no more than 14 microns in width. (For comparison, an average human hair strand is about 70 microns thick.) In essence, the finest quality cashmere results in softer and better-constructed sweaters. Although all cashmere sweaters will eventually pill, those made from lower-quality cashmere tend to pill more quickly and frequently. We've included the grade information when provided by the brand.

Style and details:

The majority of cashmere sweaters feature classic styles such as crewnecks, V-necks, and turtlenecks, as well as neutral colors, as they're intended to be long-lasting, investment wardrobe staples. However, if you're seeking a more eye-catching piece, there are numerous alternatives available that showcase unconventional cuts, colors, and patterns. While our list primarily focuses on classic styles, we've also incorporated some unique options we believe are worth considering.

Price:

As previously noted, cashmere usually carries a higher price tag compared to other natural fibers. However, we've made sure to incorporate a variety of budget-friendly choices that maintain quality standards. In the recommendations below, we've categorized them as $ (under $150), $$ ($150–$250), or $$$ (over $250) for your convenience.

Best overall cashmere sweater

Naadam The Essential $75 Cashmere Sweater $75

Sizing: XXS to XXL | Quality: Grade-A | Style and details: Crewneck | Price: $

Naadam has become a frontrunner in the affordable cashmere market, offering an extensive selection of 100% cashmere products, such as sweaters, cardigans, joggers, and even bike shorts, at prices significantly lower than competitors. I tested the brand's highly popular Essential sweater, retailing at just $75. Upon arrival, I noticed a few minor pills around the sleeves, but they weren't concerning. The sweater is soft without being overly mushy (a sign of lower-quality cashmere), although it does have a slight slickness. It features a classic fit with a crewneck and ribbing at the neck, cuffs, and hem. After wearing it twice, the sweater has held up well, with the arms stretching only slightly, likely due to my habit of rolling up sleeves throughout the day. Industry experts also commend Naadam's quality. Kate Mullin, Director of Brand Marketing and Global Communications at Anine Bing, says, "The quality, color variety, and, best of all, the prices make them one of my favorite places to buy cashmere sweaters." $75 at Naadam.

Best less-expensive cashmere sweater

Quince Mongolian Cashmere Crewneck Sweater $50.

Sizing: XS to XL | Quality: Grade-A | Style and details: Crewneck | Price: $

For a more budget-friendly cashmere sweater, consider Quince, a brand renowned for their soft sheets. They provide $50 crewneck and V-neck alternatives. Similar to Naadam, I sampled their most cost-effective choice and wore it on two occasions. The sweater features ribbing on the neckline, cuffs, and hem. Although the cuff ribbing on Quince's sweater is somewhat shorter, it is marginally tighter and maintains its shape better than Naadam's. The softness is comparable, but Quince's sweater is slightly lighter in weight. In terms of quality, it stands up well against the top-rated option. However, it falls short in size and color variety. Quince offers sizes from XS to XL (compared to Naadam's XXS to XXL) and 15 color options (as opposed to Naadam's 18).   $50 at Quince.

Best cashmere turtleneck

Brooks Brothers Cashmere Knit Turtleneck Sweater $398

Sizing: XS to XL | Style and details: Turtleneck, ribbed at the neck and cuffs | Price: $$$

Offbeat 1 writer Katie Morgan explored the top black turtlenecks for women and discovered Brooks Brothers' ribbed turtleneck, thanks to Dominique Porter, the founder of sleepwear brand The Glad Hours. She praises the cashmere turtleneck, saying, "It makes me feel like I'm in a Nancy Meyers movie in the best possible way. Who wouldn't want to feel like Diane Keaton?" Besides the classic black, this sweater is available in ivory, navy, and discounted camel and burgundy options. $398 at Brooks Brothers.

Best less-expensive cashmere turtleneck 

Italic Emma Cashmere Relaxed Turtleneck Sweater $180.

Sizing: XS to XL | Quality: Grade-A | Style and details: Turtleneck | Price: $$

Italic's prices are a bit higher than Naadam's and Quince's, but they remain reasonably priced. The turtleneck is heavier than the sweaters from the previously mentioned brands and has a more natural texture (as opposed to the slickness found in Naadam and Quince's products). Its cozy feel makes it a go-to choice on days when the temperature dips below 40 degrees. The neck ribbing is notably more substantial, with a weightiness and thicker ribs that suit a turtleneck sweater well. After wearing it around five times, it has maintained its shape and shown no signs of pilling. However, the sizing is somewhat restricted—ranging from XS to XL—and it comes in five neutral shades.   $180 at Italic.

Best striped cashmere sweater 

La Ligne Boyfriend Lean Lines Sweater $295

Sizing: XS to XL | Style and details: Oversized crewneck with stripes | Price: $$$

I sampled the oversized version of La Ligne's Lean Lines sweater, a luxury brand renowned for their signature stripes. Of all the sweaters I tried, this one was unquestionably the softest and exhibited the "buttery" texture you'd anticipate from cashmere without being mushy or slick. As a result, it's incredibly cozy yet lightweight enough for spring wear. It never feels stuffy, even when layered under coats. The jumper arrived without any pilling and has remained pill-free after two uses. In terms of fit, it is genuinely oversized (keep in mind, I'm five-foot-one and petite), yet it doesn't appear frumpy, which may be attributed to its overall luxurious feel. $295 at La Ligne.

Best less-expensive striped cashmere sweater

L.L. Bean Women’s Classic Cashmere Sweater, Crewneck Stripe $139.

Sizing: XS to XL in regular, petite, plus, and tall | Style and details: Crewneck | Price: $

In search of an alternative to the La Ligne sweater, I discovered L.L. Bean's striped crewneck. Since I've only recently acquired this sweater, I've worn it just once. It has a classic fit rather than an oversized one, and the petite XS fits my five-foot-one frame perfectly. The hem falls slightly below my hips, and the sleeves reach right to my wrists. This pullover offers one of the most extensive size ranges on the list, with regular, petite, plus, and tall options available. However, the texture is noticeably different from La Ligne's. While not as buttery soft, it remains comfortable. It isn't itchy, but it has more of a gritty feel, akin to the Italic turtleneck. Although not an exact replica of the La Ligne sweater, it's a fantastic option under $150. $139 at L.L. Bean.

Best oversize cashmere cardigan

Italic Billie Cashmere Boyfriend Cardigan $190.

Sizing: XS to XL | Quality: Grade-A | Style and details: Oversized v-neck with buttons | Price: $$

The cardigan has become my preferred choice for working from home days when I need something to wear that makes me feel more polished without being stuffy. It's lighter than the brand's turtleneck, but its softness and relaxed nature are its main selling points. Although I've only had it during the winter, I can easily see it transitioning into my spring wardrobe. I've worn it under my puffer jacket without breaking a sweat after hurrying to catch the subway (a common issue with thicker sweaters). Like the turtleneck, there's no pilling even after multiple wears. The cuffs are the only truly fitted part of the sweater, and they retain their elasticity effectively. $190 at Italic.

Best plus-size cashmere cardigan

Lands’ End Women’s Plus Size Cashmere Cardigan Sweater From $160.

Sizing: XL to 3XL | Style and details: Ribbed crewneck | Price: $$

Lands' End offers a plus-size cardigan in sizes XL to 3XL. Lauren Chan, the founder of clothing brand Henning, went in search of a plus-size version after seeing her favorite straight-size influencers wearing cardigans. The Lands' End cardigan met all her criteria. She describes it as "classic" and "simple," and notes that it "pairs perfectly with either light-wash jeans or gray sweats—a win-win situation." To top it off, the cardigan is available in four colors. From $160 at Lands' End.

Best cashmere polo sweater

Quince Mongolian Cashmere Polo Sweater $175.

Sizing: XS to XL | Quality: Grade-A | Style and details: Open collar with no buttons | Price: $

I also tried Quince's polo sweater alongside their crewneck. It possesses the same lightweight, buttery softness but with a distinct cut. I've had this one for about four months, so I've worn it more frequently than the crewneck. I found myself gravitating towards it during the past fall, even on unusually warm days, due to its airy and somewhat unconventional cut. After around two dozen wears, there has been slight pilling around the arms. However, given its attractive price, I believe it's still a worthwhile purchase. Like the crewneck, this sweater comes in sizes XS to XL but with a more limited color selection: ivory, navy, camel, black, and heather gray. $175 at Quince.

Best cashmere sweater made of recycled cashmere

Reformation Glenna Cashmere Sweater $198.

Sizing: XS to XL | Style and details: Sweetheart neckline and slit cuffs | Price: $$

Reformation, a relatively new contender in the cashmere market, launched their line in September. To differentiate themselves, they claim their sweaters are made from 90% recycled cashmere and just 10% virgin cashmere, aiming for a smaller carbon footprint than competitors. Intrigued, I tried some of their sweaters, choosing going-out styles rather than traditional crewnecks or V-necks for two reasons: first, they're less common in the cashmere world, and second, they align with the brand's overall aesthetic, in my opinion. Prices range from $128 for sleeveless styles to $348 for dresses. I selected the Glenna sweater as a balanced option and the Angel Cropped Cardigan (although it's been too cold to wear it). My favorite aspect of the Glenna is its ribbing and the flattering cut and fit. The sweetheart neckline and slit cuffs provide a refreshing change from the usual crewnecks and turtlenecks. I've worn it twice, and it has retained its shape remarkably well, despite my initial concerns about its fitted nature. Regarding quality, it's less soft and more lightweight than the other brands I tried, but it isn't itchy or see-through, so it doesn't bother me. $198 at Reformation.

Best splurge-worthy fun cashmere sweater

 Leret Leret No. 36 $475 .

Sizing: XXS to XXL | Style and details: Crewneck with checkered pattern design | Price: $$$

Leret Leret was highlighted by two experts for their range of patterned. Stylist Savannah White says, "They design really playful cashmere sweaters with fun prints for those seeking something more unique than a classic cashmere sweater, yet still high-quality." Nicole Berrie, founder of Bonberi and author of Body Harmony, also appreciates their "quirky" designs. She believes, "It's the best gift for someone who values quality and that 'It' factor." $475 at Leret Leret.

Best less-expensive fun cashmere sweater

Garin Blackhole Cashmere Sweater $395.

Sizing: XS to XL | Style and details: Crewneck, color-blocked design | Price: $$$

Megababe founder Katie Sturino chooses Garin for her cashmere sweaters due to their blend of everyday neutrals and vibrant patterns. Her favorites include the more playful designs, such as this crewneck featuring space-themed details. It's important to note that this isn't the least expensive on the list, but cashmere with unique designs typically cost hundreds of dollars, and this one sits at the lower end of that range, making it a reliable mid-priced option. Sturino also appreciates the brand's dedication to sustainability, stating, "Each sweater is animal- and eco-friendly and 100 percent biodegradable." $395 at Garin.

Some more women's cashmere sweaters we've written about.

 Reformation’s ‘classic-cut’ cashmere with unique details From $148 Buy at Reformation   Naadam’s ribbed, cropped cashmere sweater $135 Buy at Naadam   Everlane’s cashmere crew in six colors $145 Buy at Everlane.

Offbeat 1 offers the best luxurious tops. It’s the perfect addition to any wardrobe. Made from high-quality fabrics, this cardigan is incredibly soft and lightweight, making it perfect for layering over a collared shirt. The classic design features a button-up front and ribbed cuffs and hem, making it versatile enough for any occasion.   Investing in the best high-quality top is a wise decision that will last for years to come. Offbeat 1 offers a variety of options, ranging from classic crew-neck to modern quarter-zip.  No matter which style you choose, you can be sure that you will be investing in a timeless piece that will instantly love.