The Best Men's and Women's Cashmere Sweaters: My Review and What I Recommend

The Best Men’s and Women’s Cashmere Sweaters: My Personal Review Picks for Quality, Comfort, and Style

If you're like me, you've probably felt that thrill when you put on a truly luxurious cashmere sweater. There’s something about the warmth, softness, and elegance of cashmere that’s unmatched. I wanted to find the best cashmere sweaters for both men and women that deliver on quality, comfort, and style without breaking the bank—or, in some cases, as an investment piece worth every penny.

In my search, I tested a range of cashmere sweaters from budget-friendly options to splurge-worthy favorites. After trying 25 options and evaluating each one based on factors like texture, warmth, construction, and style, I’m here to share my top six picks. Whether you’re looking for a classic crewneck, a cozy turtleneck, or something with a little more personality, I think you’ll find something here that fits the bill.

Table of Contents

• 1. Best Affordable Cashmere Crewneck for Men and Women: Naadam The Original Cashmere Sweater
• 2. Best Luxury Turtleneck for Women: Italic Emma Cashmere Relaxed Turtleneck Sweater
• 3. Most Durable Men’s Cashmere Sweater: Patagonia Men’s Recycled Cashmere Crewneck Sweater
• 4. Chic Boxy Women’s Crewneck: La Ligne Mini Toujours Sweater
• 5. Year-Round Women’s Cardigan: White + Warren Essential Cashmere Trapeze Cardigan
• 6. Splurge-Worthy Unisex Statement Sweater: Leret Leret Crewneck Cashmere Sweater
• What Makes Cashmere So Special?
• Why Cashmere Costs So Much
• Other Cashmere Sweaters Worth Considering

1. Best Affordable Cashmere Crewneck for Men and Women: Naadam The Original Cashmere Sweater

If you’re diving into cashmere for the first time or just want something classic and versatile, Naadam’s The Original Cashmere Sweater is a fantastic choice. I have to say, I was initially skeptical about the quality of cashmere priced under $100, but Naadam exceeded my expectations. Both the men’s and women’s versions of this sweater offer a flattering fit with a classic crewneck style that works well on its own or layered with other pieces.

Naadam sources its cashmere directly from Mongolian goats, and you can feel the quality. The material is light but cozy, and it has that soft, natural feel that’s sometimes missing in lower-priced cashmere pieces. Yes, you may notice a bit of fuzzing after a few wears, but that’s typical for cashmere. I found that with proper care—hand washing and using a cashmere comb for pills—this sweater looks fantastic for a long time.

What I appreciate most is the attention to detail, especially at this price point. Naadam uses fully fashioned marks at the shoulders (a small but significant feature) that show how the sweater is crafted with durability in mind. The ribbing around the cuffs, hem, and collar adds a finished look that makes the sweater feel more expensive than it is.

Plus, you can even personalize it! If you want to add a monogram for an extra $20, Naadam offers that option. It’s a great touch if you’re looking for a unique piece or a thoughtful gift.

2. Best Luxury Turtleneck for Women: Italic Emma Cashmere Relaxed Turtleneck Sweater

I have a soft spot for turtlenecks, and the Italic Emma Cashmere Relaxed Turtleneck Sweater is an absolute dream. With Grade A Mongolian cashmere, this sweater has a refined, high-end feel that rivals much pricier options. I found the texture to be both soft and sturdy, with a slight sheen that’s a hallmark of high-quality cashmere. Priced at around $200, it’s a steal considering the craftsmanship.

What I love most about the Emma sweater is its comfort. The turtleneck is snug enough to keep you warm but not tight, and the cuffs are long and ribbed, which adds a cozy feel. The relaxed fit makes it incredibly wearable—I’ve worn mine with everything from jeans to skirts, and it works well for both casual and slightly dressier looks. The slightly slouchy fit means you don’t feel restricted, and the turtleneck itself can be rolled or worn high.

If you’ve been thinking about getting a turtleneck that’s stylish, comfortable, and a bit of a showstopper, this is the one. Italic’s business model lets you buy it with or without a membership, so you have some flexibility. And with five colors to choose from, there’s something for every wardrobe.

3. Most Durable Men’s Cashmere Sweater: Patagonia Men’s Recycled Cashmere Crewneck Sweater

When I first heard about the Patagonia Men’s Recycled Cashmere Crewneck Sweater, I was intrigued. I’ve always associated cashmere with luxury, not rugged outdoor wear, but Patagonia’s approach is refreshingly different. This sweater combines 95% recycled cashmere with 5% wool, creating a piece that’s warm, soft, and surprisingly durable.

One of the reasons I love this sweater is that it’s environmentally friendly. Patagonia sources recycled cashmere scraps from European factories, so this sweater has a lower environmental impact. The wool adds a bit of elasticity, making the sweater resistant to wear and tear. It’s also medium-weight, so it works well as a standalone piece in mild weather or as a layering option in colder temperatures.

The fit is classic and relaxed, with enough room to wear over a base layer. I wore it for a day outdoors, and it kept me warm without feeling bulky. The ribbed collar, cuffs, and hem are snug and help seal in warmth. It’s the kind of sweater I’d throw in my backpack for a weekend getaway or wear around the house on a chilly day.

4. Chic Boxy Women’s Crewneck: La Ligne Mini Toujours Sweater

For anyone looking to add a bit of effortless style to their wardrobe, the La Ligne Mini Toujours Sweater is a real gem. There’s something undeniably chic about this sweater’s boxy, slightly cropped fit—it has that “I just threw this on, and it looks perfect” vibe. Made from thick, luxurious cashmere, the Mini Toujours is warm, cozy, and feels incredibly soft against the skin.

I was drawn to this sweater’s ribbed texture, which gives it a substantial feel and a bit of extra warmth. The slightly cropped length hits just right, making it perfect for pairing with high-waisted jeans or skirts. I also love the versatility of this sweater—you can dress it up with a skirt and heels or keep it casual with jeans and sneakers.

La Ligne offers this sweater in a range of colors, and if you want to personalize it, you can add a monogram. While it’s on the pricier side, this sweater’s quality and timeless style make it a worthwhile investment. If you’re someone who values classic pieces with a modern twist, the Mini Toujours is a must-have.

5. Year-Round Women’s Cardigan: White + Warren Essential Cashmere Trapeze Cardigan

Sometimes, you need a cashmere piece that’s light enough for year-round wear, and the White + Warren Essential Cashmere Trapeze Cardigan fits that bill perfectly. I reach for this cardigan more often than I expected because it’s incredibly versatile. It’s light enough to layer over a blouse in spring or summer but still warm enough for autumn and winter.

What makes this cardigan special is its flowy, open-front design. The trapeze cut drapes beautifully, giving it an effortless, elegant look that works for both casual and more polished outfits. The shawl collar adds a touch of sophistication, and I appreciate the close-fitting sleeves that balance the draped silhouette.

One thing to keep in mind is that this cardigan is delicate. Cashmere this light is prone to snagging if you’re not careful, so you’ll want to handle it with care. But if you’re looking for a layering piece that adds a bit of warmth and luxury to any outfit, the Trapeze Cardigan is a fantastic choice.

6. Splurge-Worthy Unisex Statement Sweater: Leret Leret Crewneck Cashmere Sweater

If you’re in the mood to treat yourself to something truly special, the Leret Leret Crewneck Cashmere Sweater is a one-of-a-kind find. Each sweater features a unique, limited-edition design that adds a splash of personality to your wardrobe. Made from Grade A cashmere, Leret Leret’s sweaters are buttery soft, warm, and crafted with exceptional attention to detail.

I tried the Leret Leret sweater with a fun, bold design and instantly fell in love with it. This is the kind of sweater that grabs attention in the best way possible. The designs are refreshed regularly, so you have the chance to find one that really speaks to your style.

The construction is impeccable, with a 12-gauge, two-ply knit that feels both luxurious and durable. Yes, it’s a splurge, but if you’re looking for a statement piece that combines quality and artistry, it’s hard to go wrong with Leret Leret.

What Makes Cashmere So Special?

Let’s talk about why cashmere is worth the investment. Cashmere fibers come from the undercoats of certain breeds of goats, particularly those in Mongolia and Inner Mongolia. These goats grow long, fine hairs to protect against harsh winter conditions, and those soft fibers are what give cashmere its unique qualities: warmth without weight, softness without bulk, and a smooth, luxurious feel.

In my testing, I focused on several factors: texture, warmth, construction, and durability. Quality cashmere should be soft to the touch with a slightly springy feel. It should also be dense enough to provide warmth without feeling too heavy. Cashmere that pills too quickly or feels scratchy is usually made from shorter, coarser fibers, so I avoided those options.

Why Cashmere Costs So Much

There’s a reason cashmere tends to be pricey—it’s rare and labor-intensive to produce. Each year, only a small amount of pure cashmere is harvested, as the process involves carefully combing or shearing the goats’ undercoats. This work requires skill and patience, as only the longest, finest fibers are retained for premium cashmere.

Then, the cashmere is washed, spun, and knitted, often by skilled artisans. The best cashmere pieces come from regions like Mongolia, where the goats are raised in harsh conditions that produce superior fibers. That’s why cashmere from brands like Loro Piana can cost thousands of dollars.

But you don’t have to spend a fortune to enjoy quality cashmere. There are affordable options that provide great value, like Naadam’s sweater, and if you’re open to investing a little more, there are luxurious options like Leret Leret’s statement pieces.

Other Cashmere Sweaters Worth Considering

• Quince Mongolian Cashmere Crewneck Sweater: For around $50 to $60, this is an excellent entry-level cashmere piece. The quality isn’t quite as high as more expensive options, but it’s soft, flattering, and surprisingly well-made for the price.
• Everlane Cashmere Crew: Everlane’s Cashmere Crew is another good choice, with a wide range of colors and a classic fit. It has reinforced ribbing around the collar and cuffs, and it feels soft and warm, though it can be slightly itchy for some.
• Equipment Sanni Cashmere Crew Neck Sweater: This sweater has a cool, slouchy fit that’s great for a laid-back look. The fabric is thinner than some other cashmere pieces, so it’s best suited for mild weather or as a layering piece.

Cashmere is an investment, but it’s one that pays off in comfort, style, and durability. Whether you’re buying your first cashmere sweater or adding to your collection, these picks offer a mix of quality, affordability, and design that make them worthwhile. I hope you find something you love as much as I do—because life is just better with cashmere!