The Best Men’s and Women’s Cashmere Sweaters Ultimate Guide

The Ultimate Guide of the Best Men’s and Women’s Cashmere Sweaters

Unmatched in softness and undeniably luxurious, a high-quality cashmere sweater is an essential and valuable addition to any wardrobe. Since it is also a significant investment, choosing one that combines visual appeal, lasting comfort, and durability is crucial.

After testing 30 cashmere sweaters priced between $50 and $500, we narrowed it down to six top picks. These include a men’s and women’s crewneck for under $100, a cozy $200 women’s turtleneck, a durable men’s sweater with a touch of wool, a chic boxy women’s sweater, a lightweight women’s cardigan, and an indulgent unisex sweater with standout designs.

Table of Content

  • Top Recommendations
      1. An affordable men’s and women’s cashmere crewneck under $100: Naadam The Original Cashmere Sweater
      1. A luxurious women’s turtleneck made from baby cashmere: Offbeat1 Baby Cashmere Relaxed Turtleneck Sweater
      1. A premium women’s turtleneck priced at $200: Italic Emma Cashmere Relaxed Turtleneck Sweater
      1. A practical and rugged men’s cashmere sweater: Patagonia Men’s Recycled Cashmere Crewneck Sweater
      1. Trendy and slightly cropped, boxy women’s crewneck: La Ligne Mini Toujours Sweater
      1. A lightweight open-front women’s cardigan: White + Warren Essential Cashmere Trapeze Cardigan
      1. A unisex, splurge-worthy sweater featuring statement designs: Leret Leret Crewneck Cashmere Sweater
  • How We Picked and Tested
  • Why is Cashmere So Expensive?
  • Other Cashmere Sweaters Worth Considering
  • The Competition
  • Summary

Top Recommendations

Unmatched in softness and undeniably luxurious, a high-quality cashmere sweater is an essential addition to any wardrobe. Here are the top picks:

An affordable under-$100 cashmere crewneck for men and women: Naadam The Original Cashmere Sweaters

The Naadam- Original Cashmere Sweater Men’s is the Best men’s cashmere sweater for under $100. Its featuring a soft texture and a snug yet comfortable fit, this affordable crewneck is an ideal introduction to high-quality cashmere. It also comes in an impressive range of sizes and colors.

Top pick for a women’s cashmere sweater under $100

Naadam- Original Cashmere Sweater for Women’s is the Best women’s cashmere sweater for under $100. Its featuring a soft texture and a snug yet comfortable fit, this affordable crewneck is an ideal introduction to high-quality cashmere. It also comes in an impressive range of sizes and colors. Naadam’s The Original Cashmere Sweater (for men and women) stands out as a rare gem priced under $100. Beyond its affordability, this lightweight crewneck boasts a timeless design, a slim yet flattering fit that isn’t too tight, meticulous detailing, and an incredibly soft texture. For $20 more, you can add a personal touch with a custom monogram of up to four characters embroidered on the chest.

Soft, smooth, and incredibly cozy, The Original cashmere sweater’s material feels far more luxurious than its price suggests. It’s supple and smooth without the slick, chemically processed feel of some cheaper cashmere options. The lightweight knit is cozy yet dense enough to block chilly breezes. On a 60-degree fall day, it provides warmth for a stroll through New York City, while in colder winter months, it serves as a perfect, slim layering piece under a coat.

With a slim but not overly tight fit, this classic crewneck offers a timeless design. Its long, streamlined silhouette provides ample space for layering a shirt underneath. Both male and female testers admired its relaxed style, noting that it achieves a slightly slouchy look without appearing messy.

Exceptionally well-made for its price, The Original sweater rivals the quality of options that cost twice as much. It features fully fashioned marks at the shoulders—raised reinforcements that reflect a superior, labor-intensive construction method compared to basic cut-and-sew techniques. The ribbed hems at the neck, cuffs, and waist are neatly finished, enhancing the sweater’s durability and longevity.

Naadam’s The Original Cashmere Sweater features well-constructed cuffs, a sturdy collar, and a durable hem. The cashmere used in The Original sweater is of exceptional quality. Crafted from long-fiber, Grade A cashmere, it features a 12-gauge knit and two-ply yarn. The material is sourced from the coats of Zalaa Jinst white goats in Mongolia, a breed renowned for its lightweight yet warm cashmere fibers. Naadam’s openness about their sourcing is impressive, especially at this price point.

After hand-washing The Original sweater, we noticed a slight increase in surface fluff, likely indicating a blend of long and shorter cashmere fibers. However, the material held up well during our tests. The knit bounced back to its original shape when we gently stretched the sleeve, and even after vigorous rubbing, only a small pill formed. This resilience is partly due to Naadam’s “proprietary finishing technique,” which helps minimize pilling. (Note: All cashmere will pill over time, but proper care and a cashmere comb can help manage it.)

Flaws but not dealbreakers

  • The sweater’s slight fuzziness and affordable price indicate that its fine, long cashmere fibers may be blended with shorter, more economical ones.
  • Two reviewers reported notable pilling within a few months of wear, while three others experienced only minor pilling after several years.

Sizes: Men’s XXS to XXL; Women’s XXS to XXL

Colors: 10 to 35, varying by season

A luxurious women’s turtleneck made from baby cashmere: Offbeat1 Baby Cashmere Relaxed Turtleneck Sweater

The Offbeat1 Baby Cashmere Relaxed Turtleneck Sweater is the ultimate women’s cashmere turtleneck, offering exceptional luxury and comfort. This elegant turtleneck is crafted from premium baby cashmere, making it ultra-soft and supple. With extra-long ribbed cuffs and a cozy collar, it delivers a high-end feel at an accessible price. However, we hope to see it available in a broader range of sizes, as it currently goes up to XL, and it tends to sell out quickly.

Few things rival the comfort of being wrapped in thick, luxurious baby cashmere, which is exactly what the Offbeat1 Baby Cashmere Relaxed Turtleneck Sweater provides. Its slightly slouchy turtleneck and velvety-soft knit keep you warm and stylish. While such quality and style often come at a premium, Offbeat1 makes this sweater impressively affordable.

The sweater feels far more luxurious than its price suggests. Made from Grade A baby cashmere, it has a refined, premium quality that stands out against competitors. Unlike chemically treated alternatives, its texture remains natural and smooth. The fabric bounces back to shape when stretched and shows minimal fuzz. Though all cashmere can pill, this sweater settles into a sleek finish after a few wears.

Exceptionally warm, the Offbeat1 turtleneck is crafted with a seven-gauge knit that is thicker and cozier than many others. Its turtleneck design offers versatility—wear it unrolled for full coverage or folded down for added warmth. The ribbing at the cuffs and hem provides effective cold protection, making it an ideal choice for cooler days.

The sweater is not just warm but also comfortable and flattering. Its relaxed fit, slightly tapered sleeves, and non-restrictive collar create a modern and versatile design. Enhanced by long, elegant cuffs, it combines practicality and sophistication effortlessly.

Careful attention to detail defines the Offbeat1 turtleneck. Raglan sleeves, attached diagonally to the body, offer a seamless fit at the shoulders, while fully fashioned knit sleeves lie flat and polished. Whether worn down or rolled up, the ribbing ensures they stay in place, maintaining a clean look.

Flaws but manageable

  • The Offbeat1 Baby Cashmere Turtleneck frequently sells out due to high demand.
  • While minor pilling may occur initially, the fibers smooth out with wear.
  • Currently available in a limited size range.

strong>Sizes: Women’s XS to XL

Colors: Twelve classic shades

A premium women’s turtleneck priced at $200: Italic Emma Cashmere Relaxed Turtleneck Sweater

The Italic Emma Cashmere Relaxed Turtleneck Sweater is the Best women’s cashmere turtlneck for $200. This elegant turtleneck is soft, supple, and feels far more expensive than its actual cost, with extra-long ribbed cuffs and a cozy collar. However, we wish it were available in more sizes, as it only goes up to XL, and it frequently sells out.

Few things rival the comfort of being wrapped in thick, luxurious cashmere up to your chin, which is exactly what the Italic Emma Cashmere Relaxed Turtleneck Sweater delivers. Its slightly slouchy turtleneck and velvety-soft knit keep the cold at bay. While such quality, warmth, and style often come at a high price, the Emma sweater is impressively affordable at around $200.

The Emma sweater feels far more luxurious than its price suggests. Made from Grade A Mongolian cashmere, it has a supple, premium quality that stands out among similarly priced cashmere sweaters, many of which felt unnaturally smooth due to chemical treatments. The fabric looks refined, quickly regains its shape when stretched, and generates minimal fuzz. Although all cashmere can pill, this sweater developed a smooth finish after just a few wears./p>

This sweater is exceptionally warm. Constructed with a seven-gauge knit, the Emma sweater is thicker and cozier than many others we tested. Its turtleneck adds an extra layer of comfort—wear it unrolled for full coverage or folded over for added warmth. The generous ribbing at the cuffs and hem effectively seals out cold air, making it an ideal choice for chilly days.

Comfortable, fashionable, and flattering, the Emma sweater avoids the restrictive feel of many turtlenecks. Its relaxed body, slightly fitted sleeves, and non-constricting collar combine to create a modern and easy-to-wear piece, enhanced by its long, elegant cuffs.

This sweater is carefully designed, featuring raglan sleeves that attach diagonally to the body for a seamless shoulder fit. The fully fashioned sleeves, which are knit rather than sewn together, lie flat and maintain a polished appearance. Whether worn down or pushed up, they stay in place thanks to the resilient, high-quality ribbing.

The Italic Emma Cashmere Relaxed Turtleneck Sweater features thick, durable ribbing at the cuffs and hem, offering both a stylish touch and excellent cold protection.

The Emma sweater is available for purchase with or without an Italic membership. Initially, Italic required a paid membership to shop, but this is now optional. Membership costs $60 annually and includes $60 in merchandise credit—$15 upfront and another $15 every quarter—along with free shipping, free returns, and access to exclusive discounts.

Flaws but manageable

  • The Emma sweater often sells out quickly.
  • While we observed slight pilling initially, the fibers smoothed out after a few wears.
  • It is only available in a limited size range.

Sizes: Women’s XS to XL

Colors: Five

A practical and rugged men’s cashmere sweater: Patagonia Men’s Recycled Cashmere Crewneck Sweater

The Patagonia Men’s Recycled Cashmere Crewneck Sweater is the Best men’s cashmere sweater for durability. This warm, thick men’s sweater combines the softness of cashmere with the added durability of 5% wool. Its classic and comfortable cut exudes casual elegance, though it lacks the refined finish of some other options.

Luxurious and soft? Absolutely. Rugged? Surprisingly, yes. The Patagonia Men’s Recycled Cashmere Crewneck Sweater embodies both qualities. With a medium-weight design, classic fit, and enhanced durability from 5% wool, it feels less delicate than our other picks. It’s perfect for packing on a weeklong trip or layering under a ski jacket for snowy excursions.

This sweater is notably durable. Made from 95% recycled cashmere—spun from pre-consumer scraps collected from European factories—it offers a lower environmental impact compared to virgin cashmere, blended with 5% wool for added strength. While cashmere is softer, wool provides thickness and natural elasticity. This combination creates a substantial, slightly fuzzy knit that feels indulgent and itch-free while being more resilient than pure cashmere.

With its thick, durable fabric, this sweater is less prone to tearing or stretching over time than others we tested. The reinforced, fully fashioned sleeves add to its longevity. During our tests, the snug ribbed collar maintained its shape perfectly, even after weeks of wear and frequent use by a tester with a larger head.

This sweater excels at retaining warmth. Its seven-gauge, two-ply knit kept us cozy during a chilly autumn morning in Southern California, making it perfect for layering during city walks, trail hikes, or snowboarding adventures. The sturdy ribbing at the collar, cuffs, and hem effectively blocks out cold air, enhancing its practicality. Blended with 5% wool, the Recycled Cashmere Crewneck is thicker and more durable than pure cashmere alternatives.

With a slightly relaxed, perfectly balanced fit, this classic crewneck-style sweater is neither too tight nor too loose. It fits true to size, providing ample room for movement and accommodating broader shoulders or an athletic build. On our 5-foot-9 male tester, the medium’s sleeves extended just beyond the wrists but could easily be rolled up. The ribbed neck is snug yet comfortable, adding to its overall appeal.

While this sweater leans toward a more casual style compared to our other picks, it still offers a polished look, making it equally appropriate for a stylish evening out or a brisk hike.

Flaws but acceptable

  • Some may find the sweater’s utilitarian design less appealing.
  • Its blend of 95% recycled cashmere and 5% wool lacks the silky softness and refinement of 100% cashmere, but this trade-off ensures greater durability and a smaller environmental footprint.

Sizes: Men’s XS to XXL

Colors: Four

Trendy and slightly cropped, boxy women’s crewneck: La Ligne Mini Toujours Sweater

The La Ligne Mini Toujours Sweater is the Best women’s cashmere sweater for a chic, boxy shape. This fashionable women’s cashmere sweater features a textured ribbed knit and intricate detailing. Its boxy silhouette is both versatile and flattering, with a dropped shoulder and slightly cropped length. However, the extra-long sleeves may require rolling for the perfect fit.

If your winter wardrobe needs a touch of elegance, the La Ligne Mini Toujours Sweater is an excellent choice. (Note: A men’s version, the La Ligne Mr. Toujours Sweater, became available after this guide was written and hasn’t been tested.) This chic, boxy crewneck features a sumptuous ribbed knit and slightly cropped design, exuding effortless elegance. While it is on the pricier side, its thick, luxurious cashmere and sturdy construction ensure lasting quality. The sweater is available in a variety of solid and striped colors to suit different preferences.

Similar to our Naadam cashmere recommendation, the Mini Toujours Sweater can be personalized. For $40, La Ligne offers monogramming of up to three initials on the lower left sleeve.

The boxy, slightly cropped silhouette of the Mini sweater exudes effortless style. Featuring dropped shoulders and extended sleeves, the sweater’s length ranges from 19 inches for a size XXS to 21.5 inches for a size XL. This design offers a casual yet refined vibe reminiscent of Parisian chic, pairing equally well with worn jeans and sneakers or a silk skirt and heels.

For our 5-foot-9 female tester, the Mini sweater’s hem fell right at the waist, with the size small fitting “just right.” Although the long sleeves extended past her hands, they were easily rolled up, staying in place thanks to the thick knit. The cuffed sleeves complemented the sweater’s relaxed and effortless aesthetic.

If you prefer a longer fit, La Ligne also offers full-length and turtleneck versions of this sweater, though we have not tested them. This sweater is warm, luxurious, and substantial. Its thick ribbed design feels soft and smooth against the skin, with no hint of itchiness. Among our top picks for warmth, it features a seven-gauge, two-ply construction with a chunky knit that adds texture and weight without being overly bulky. It layers easily under a coat for added versatility.

The La Ligne Mini Toujours Sweater’s extra-long sleeves look stylish when cuffed, with the thick ribbing ensuring they stay securely in place. The Mini sweater is built to last. Its substantial knit is both springy and resilient, showing no signs of stretching or unraveling at the collar, hem, or cuffs. The fully fashioned shoulder seams, a hallmark of knit-together rather than cut-and-sewn construction, add durability and a visually appealing design element.

Due to its durable craftsmanship, pre-owned versions of this sweater often remain in excellent condition. For example, we found one discounted by over 60% on La Ligne’s resale platform, Re-Ligne.

Flaws but acceptable

  • Priced above $300, this sweater is an investment; however, its quality rivals that of options costing twice as much.

Sizes: Women’s XXS to 3X

Colors: 11 solid and six striped

A lightweight open-front women’s cardigan: White + Warren Essential Cashmere Trapeze Cardigan

The White+Warren Essential Cashmere Trapeze Cardigan is the Best women’s cashmere sweater for light layering. Both flattering and luxurious, this lightweight, open-front cashmere cardigan provides warmth without added bulk. It is available in one of the most limited size ranges among our picks (women’s XS to XL).

Cashmere shouldn’t be limited to winter months. For a versatile option you can wear year-round, the White + Warren Essential Cashmere Trapeze Cardigan is ideal. Long, drapey, and open-front, it feels almost weightless. In our tests, this was one of the most frequently reached-for pieces—the kind you grab “just in case” before leaving home. However, its delicate and airy knit requires careful handling, especially considering its premium price.

This cardigan is a simple yet versatile layering piece. Lightweight enough for year-round wear, it provides breathable warmth on cool summer evenings and fits comfortably under a coat during colder months without adding bulk. Regardless of the season, it brings a touch of understated luxury to any outfit.

The Trapeze Cardigan features a long, flowing design with an open front that drapes gracefully down the body, typically falling around mid-thigh depending on height. Its breezy shawl collar adds elegance, while the fitted sleeves prevent it from appearing overly bulky. However, it comes in a limited size range (women’s XS to XL), and sizing up is recommended if worn over long-sleeve tops due to its slim arm design. For those who prefer a shorter style, the Trapeze Cardigan also comes in a hip-length mini version.

Delicate and lightweight, the Trapeze Cardigan is crafted from Grade A cashmere sourced from Inner Mongolia. Its seven-gauge, two-ply knit feels whisper-soft on the skin but lacks the warmth and durability of our other recommendations, making it more prone to snagging and stretching. This trade-off allows it to function as an excellent year-round layering piece. Given its delicate nature and high price, we suggest investing only if you’re prepared to hand-wash it and provide careful upkeep. The White + Warren Essential Cashmere Trapeze Cardigan features a long, flowing design, making it ideal for layering both over and under other garments.

The Trapeze Cardigan showcases impeccable craftsmanship with thoughtful details. Fully fashioned marks, small raised reinforcements along the seams, add strength to the shoulders. The shawl collar and front opening are elegantly finished with a wide knitted hem, while the bottom hem and cuffs feature a delicate rolled edge.

Flaws but acceptable

  • Similar to our Italic pick, this cardigan is only available in a limited size range (women’s XS to XL), and we wish it offered more inclusive sizing.
  • The lightweight design, while ideal for layering and year-round wear, compromises durability and makes it more prone to stretching compared to sturdier options.
  • It is also quite expensive, so consider purchasing only if you’re prepared to handle it with care.

Sizes: Women’s XS to XL

Colors: Nine

A unisex, splurge-worthy sweater featuring statement designs: Leret Leret Crewneck Cashmere Sweater

The Leret Leret Crewneck Cashmere Sweater No. 70 is the Best unisex cashmere sweater for unique designs. For those seeking cashmere with a bold personality and willing to invest, this soft and luxurious unisex sweater is a perfect choice. Each style is limited edition—while the snake design we tested is no longer available, many other striking graphic options are offered.

The Leret Leret Crewneck Cashmere Sweater stands out with its eye-catching unisex design. Among all the sweaters we tested, its bold, limited-edition graphic front garnered the most compliments and attention. Priced at $575, it is the most expensive on our list, but for those with the budget and a taste for unique, medium-weight cashmere styles, it offers warmth, luxury, and exceptional flair.

This sweater makes a bold statement. Its distinctive and playful graphic designs add a whimsical twist to the classic cashmere crewneck. We tested the snake-adorned No. 19, which has since sold out. Leret Leret releases new editions annually, with over 50 styles currently available. Notable designs include the mushroom-themed No. 28, the sunset-inspired No. 13, and No. 25, featuring a still life of oranges on a powder-blue background. For a subtler option, simpler stripe motifs are also available.

The Leret Leret crewneck offers a cozy, soft feel reminiscent of a cherished childhood blanket. Its smooth 12-gauge, two-ply knit provides excellent insulation without added bulk, while the sturdy ribbing around the cuffs effectively retains body heat and blocks cold air. Suitable for 55-degree days with just a T-shirt, it also layers comfortably under a wool coat in colder conditions.

Leret Leret’s cashmere is truly exceptional. Sourced from the resilient Capra hircus goats of Mongolia’s Gobi Desert, the Grade A cashmere is combed and hand-sheared, similar to the materials used by luxury brand Loro Piana. This premium cashmere feels sumptuous and soft, with a fine, smooth knit that easily springs back into shape when stretched. Its fully fashioned construction, where seams are knitted rather than cut and sewn, enhances both its durability and polished appearance.

We tested the Leret Leret Crewneck Cashmere Sweater in the limited-edition No. 19 design, featuring a striking snake graphic that drew plenty of attention. This particular style is no longer available.

This crewneck sweater features a relaxed, unisex design with a long and comfortable silhouette, offering extra room in the torso. For the ideal slouchy fit, refer to Leret Leret’s size chart, and if you’re between sizes, consider opting for the larger one.

Flaws but acceptable

  • This is our most expensive pick. While it feels genuinely special, the high price may be a concern, especially since all cashmere eventually pills.
  • The unisex cut may not work for everyone, as it can be too long in the torso for those with petite frames.
  • Its standout design, while a strength, may deter frequent wear, as its uniqueness could make it less versatile than a wardrobe staple.

Sizes: Unisex XXS to XXL

Colors: Over 50 limited-edition designs, with new styles released annually

How We Picked and Tested

With so many cashmere sweaters available, narrowing down our testing list was a challenge. We consulted designers and industry experts, read numerous reviews, and extensively browsed fashion websites to identify the best options. Our evaluation criteria included:

Given the often steep prices of cashmere sweaters, we set a price cap of $500 per item. All the sweaters we considered were made of 100% cashmere, except for one that included 5% wool.

In the first edition of this guide, we tested 22 men’s, women’s, and unisex styles using two testers: a 5-foot-9 female tester wearing a women’s small and a 5-foot-9 male tester wearing a men’s medium. In 2024, a 5-foot-6 female tester in a women’s medium revisited our Naadam pick, comparing it with three other sub-$100 cashmere sweaters in a direct matchup.

Our evaluation criteria for each sweater included:

  • Texture:: High-quality cashmere should feel soft, smooth, and completely itch-free. The finest, most durable cashmere yarns are made from the longest and thinnest fibers. While most brands don’t reveal the fiber length or diameter, the fabric’s texture can provide hints. If a sweater feels unnaturally soft or leaves a slick residue on your fingers, it’s likely been overwashed or chemically treated.
  • Warmth and weight: Known for its exceptional warmth, cashmere is ideal for various climates. We tested sweaters in different weights for comfort across seasons and assessed two key knitwear specifications: ply and gauge.
  • Ply: This refers to the number of threads twisted together to create yarn. Higher ply indicates increased warmth and durability. Our focus was on cashmere with two-ply or greater.
  • Gauge: This measures the number of stitches per inch in a sweater. Higher-gauge knits are tighter and often use finer yarn, resulting in a smooth, lightweight feel. Lower-gauge knits are chunkier and heavier. We prioritized cashmere sweaters crafted to seven-gauge and 12-gauge standards.
  • Style: We prioritized sweaters with both stylish appeal and comfortable, flattering fits. While timeless designs were essential, we also valued unique features like creative cuts, distinctive prints, patterns, and textured knits. Most of our selections offered a broad range of colors and sizes, though some brands lacked inclusive sizing options.
  • Construction: We evaluated each sweater for strong seams with no loose threads and durable ribbing at the cuffs, collars, and hems. Fully fashioned marks—small raised reinforcements often found at the shoulders or armholes—were another focus, as they indicate a knit-together construction for stronger, more aesthetically pleasing seams and a superior fit.
  • Durability: We tested each sweater’s resilience by gently pulling on the sleeves, looking for knits that returned to their original shape without stretching or distortion. We also inspected the fabric for surface fuzz, as excessive fuzz suggests shorter fibers that are more likely to pill, stretch, or tear. Though all cashmere will eventually pill, the extent depends on the material’s quality and how well the sweater is maintained. We rubbed the sleeves firmly to test for pilling, as sweaters that pill immediately are unlikely to last beyond a few seasons.

Why is Cashmere So Expensive?

Cashmere is derived from the ultra-soft undercoats of specific alpine goat species. Its quality and price depend on the length and fineness of the fibers, as well as the skill and care involved in its collection.

Top-quality cashmere for sweaters often originates from Mongolia and Inner Mongolia, where cashmere goats thrive in rugged, high-altitude environments. These goats develop a double-coated fleece to withstand freezing winters, with coarse outer wool and a dense layer of fine, soft undercoat beneath.

The finest and most sought-after cashmere is hand-combed or delicately sheared during spring, aligning with the goats’ natural shedding season. Expert producers selectively harvest the longest, thinnest undercoat fibers, which can be tightly woven into stronger, smoother yarn.

Annually, 15,000 to 20,000 tons of cashmere is harvested, but after the scouring and dehairing processes, only 6,500 tons of pure cashmere reaches the market. This is minimal compared to the 1 million tons of wool produced during the same period. Coupled with increasing global demand for luxury goods, this scarcity drives cashmere’s high price. The finest long-fiber cashmere is particularly rare, with heritage brands like Italy’s Loro Piana—where sweaters can cost thousands—acquiring much of the premium-grade supply.

In recent years, cashmere has become significantly more accessible, largely due to increased production efforts in China. During our testing, we focused on these more affordable options and found several high-quality picks under $100, including our Naadam recommendation and a $50 sweater from Quince.

To reduce costs, many inexpensive wool sweaters are made from yarn spun with shorter, coarser, or broken fibers, leading to reduced durability. However, even some higher-priced brands use low-quality cashmere, proving that price alone is not always a reliable indicator of quality.

Other Cashmere Sweaters Worth Considering

For ultra-soft cashmere at an unbeatable price, consider the Quince Mongolian Cashmere Crewneck Sweater (women’s, $50; extended women’s sizes, $60; men’s, $60). Made from Grade A, two-ply cashmere, this sweater offers excellent quality for the cost. Its whisper-soft texture, flattering fit, and snug ribbing at the hem are standout features. Reinforced with fully fashioned marks at the shoulders, it is also well-constructed. In September 2024, Quince enhanced this crewneck by increasing its cashmere content by 20%, incorporating more long fibers for a substantial, luxurious feel. While it still has surface fluff and pills more easily than ideal, these compromises are acceptable at this price. Available in women’s sizes XS to 3X and men’s sizes S to XXL, it comes in a variety of colors.

The competition

This is not a complete list of everything that we tested, just what’s still available.

Women’s

  • The Gobi $99 Cashmere Hat and Sweater Set includes a matching beanie and crewneck made from ultrafine Mongolian cashmere. While the sweater’s softness is impressive, it resembles the earlier, thinner version of the Quince Mongolian Cashmere Crewneck but with weaker ribbing, reduced stretch recovery, and more surface fuzz—all at twice the price.
  • The Saks Fifth Avenue Collection Cashmere Roundneck Sweater features a slim, flattering fit with a chic split hem. However, it pilled almost immediately, and we noticed a few loose threads during testing.
  • The Uniqlo cashmere Sweater offers a fine even knit with fully fashioned shoulder marks. However, we found the quality of Uniqlo’s cashmere inconsistent over the years. The 2023 version we tested felt itchy, was notably thin, and was almost transparent.

Men's

  • Everlane’s Grade-A Cashmere Crew offers a good fit and reliable warmth, with strong, reinforced ribbing at the neck and cuffs. Some testers found it slightly itchy, but for those less sensitive, it’s a solid option at a reasonable price. (As of late 2024, this sweater was on final sale with limited stock available.)
  • The Italic Mateo Cashmere Crewneck Sweater feels exceptionally soft but lacks structure and tends to feel overly delicate. Our test piece even showed signs of pilling upon arrival.
  • The J.Crew Men’s Cashmere Crewneck Sweater suffered from poor craftsmanship, with weak seams and an overly soft, nearly greasy texture.
  • The William Lockie Oxton cashmere sweater, crafted by one of Scotland’s few remaining cashmere mills, is designed to soften over time and last a lifetime. While the quality was undeniably excellent, its classic crewneck design lacked the uniqueness to justify its price tag of over $400.
  • Summary

    When I set out to find the best cashmere sweaters for both men and women, I tested 30 options priced between $50 and $500. My goal was to find sweaters that feel luxurious, look stylish, and offer great value. After thorough testing, I narrowed it down to six favorites that I think you'll love. If you're looking for something affordable, I highly recommend Naadam’s Original Cashmere Crewneck for under $100 and OFFBEAT1’s. It’s incredibly soft, lightweight, and versatile, perfect for both men and women. You’ll appreciate its timeless design and the fact that it feels much more expensive than it is.

    For women, the Offbeat1 Baby Cashmere Turtleneck is a must-have if you love luxurious comfort. It’s crafted from ultra-soft baby cashmere and has a cozy, elegant design. If durability and sustainability are important to you, the Patagonia Recycled Cashmere Crewneck is an excellent pick for men. It combines recycled cashmere and wool for a rugged yet soft feel.

    If you want to stand out, try La Ligne’s Mini Toujours Sweater. It has a chic, boxy cut that’s perfect for layering or wearing on its own. For lightweight layering, White + Warren’s Essential Trapeze Cardigan is an ideal year-round option. And if you’re ready to splurge, the Leret Leret Crewneck is an absolute showstopper with its bold, limited-edition designs.

    You may wonder why cashmere is so expensive. The finest fibers come from Mongolian goats, and their scarcity drives up the price. But I’ve also learned that price doesn’t always mean quality. Affordable options, like Quince’s Mongolian Cashmere Crewneck, offer surprising quality for just $50. No matter your budget or style, I’ve found something that will keep you cozy and stylish. With the right care, your sweater will not only feel amazing but also last for years. I’m confident you’ll find one you love from these picks!

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    Stella

    Date 11/25/2024

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    Date 11/25/2024

    Lucy

    Date 11/25/2024

    Mila

    Date 11/26/2024

    Riley

    Date 11/26/2024

    Bella

    Date 11/26/2024

    Aaliyah

    Date 11/26/2024

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