The 12 Very Best Cashmere Sweaters
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A Cashmere sweater is a versatile, durable, seasonless investment that can last decades (as long as you keep the moths away). But choosing the right one can be overwhelming because you're paying a premium price for an inherently luxurious staple. Cashmere comes at a heftier price because cashmere yarn comes from the fluffy undercoat of cashmere goats, which makes for a softer and warmer fiber than sheep's wool. (Fascinatingly, cashmere goats are a type and not a breed; according to the Cashmere Goat Association, almost all goats can grow cashmere, but only selectively bred flocks produce it "in significant amounts.")
Plenty of brands are now offering more affordable options. To make sure you're not sacrificing quality for price, I tried out sweaters from some of the top budget brands in that space as well as some luxury options to see how they hold up. I mainly tested each sweater's feel, weight, and durability. (Note: I've had the sweaters for as long as a couple of months and as short as one week. I'll have updates on that last point as time goes on.) I also reached out to stylish folks to see which ones they thought are worth the cost or skimp on quality. Read on to see our picks from every price point.
In our search for the best, we're looking for sweaters with an inclusive range of sizing options.
As mentioned, the feel and weight are important when shopping for cashmere. The quality is reflected by grades: A, B, and C. Grade C is the lowest grade, measuring around 30 microns width per cashmere hair. Grade B measures around 18 to 19 microns width per cashmere hair. And Grade A, the highest, measures no more than 14 microns width per cashmere hair. (For context, the average strand of human hair is about 70 microns thick.) All that to say, the best quality cashmere is finer, resulting in the softest and most well-constructed sweaters. And though all cashmere will eventually pill, lower-quality cashmere is prone to pilling faster and more frequently. We noted the grade if that information is provided from the brand.
Most cashmere comes in classic styles — crewnecks, V-necks, and turtlenecks — and neutral colors because they're meant to be investment, long-lasting closet staples. But, should you want a more statement-making piece, there are plenty of options out there offering less traditional cuts, colorways, and patterns. Our list leans classic, but we also included some fun options we thought were worth it.
As we've mentioned, cashmere typically costs more than other natural fibers. Despite that, we've included a range of affordable options that don't sacrifice quality. We denoted the recommendations below as either $ (under $150), $$ ($150–$250), or $$$ (over $250).
Sizing: XXS to XXLQuality: Grade-AStyle and details: CrewneckPrice: $
There's a reason Naadam is a leader in the affordable cashmere space. It offers a wide selection of 100 percent cashmere fittings — including sweaters, cardigans, joggers, and even bike shorts — for a fraction of what you'd pay elsewhere. I tested the brand's most popular sweater, the Essential, which retails at just $75. Upon receiving it, I did notice very minor pills around the sleeve, but they weren't enough to cause alarm. It's soft without being mushy (an indicator of lower-quality cashmere), but it does have a slight slickness to it. The fit is as classic as it gets: a crewneck with ribbing at the neck, cuffs, and hem. I've worn the sweater twice, and it's held up well so far. The arms have stretched out ever so slightly, but that's mainly because I roll up my sleeves at least a couple of times throughout the day. Experts we spoke to also praised the brand's quality. Kate Mullin, director of brand marketing and global communications at Anine Bing, says "the quality, the color variety, and, best of all, the prices make them one of my favorite places to buy cashmere sweaters."
Sizing: XS to XLQuality: Grade-AStyle and details: CrewneckPrice: $
For an even more affordable cashmere sweater, the brand Quince (notably known for its soft sheets) offers $50 crewneck and V-neck options. As with Naadam, I tried the brand's most affordable option and have worn it twice. It has ribbing on the neck, cuffs, and hem. While the cuff ribbing on Quince's sweater is slightly shorter, they are marginally tighter and don't stretch out as much as Naadam's. It's as soft to the touch, too, but Quince's seems ever-so-slightly lighter in terms of weight. So, quality-wise, I'd say it holds up next to the best-overall option. Where it does lack, though, is sizing and color options. Quince only offers sizes XS to XL (Naadam offers XXS to XXL) and 15 colorways (versus 18 at Naadam).
Sizing: S to XLStyle and details: Oversized turtleneck, ribbed at the neck and cuffsPrice: $$$
Mullin is also a fan of Naked Cashmere's sweaters, and she's particularly "obsessed" with the brand's turtleneck. "The quality and fit are amazing, and it just feels so luxurious from the sleeves to the neck," she says. The Noelle style has a relaxed fit along the neck and body, features extra long sleeves, and is slightly cropped for a more elevated look. It comes in five neutral colors: black, white, dark gray, moss, and beige.
$295 at Naked Cashmere
Buy
Sizing: Unisex XXS to 3XLStyle and details: Turtleneck, ribbed at the neck and cuffsPrice: $$
Uniqlo's prices are slightly higher than those of Naadam and Quince, but they're still affordable. Despite being a turtleneck, this one's lightweight. It's perfect for wearing on its own on warmer days and layered underneath chunkier sweaters. The texture is more natural-feeling (rather than having the slickness I found in Naadam and Quince's offerings), and mine hasn't pilled as much as my Naadam or Quince sweaters. One thing to note is that this comes in unisex sizing, so you may consider sizing down (for reference, I'm typically an XS and went with an XXS, which fits me just right). Like the above turtleneck, it has a boxier cut, but Uniqlo's neck is slightly tighter (without being restrictive).
Sizing: XS to XLStyle details: Crewneck with stripesPrice: $$$
After a few of her sweaters "were decimated by moths," former Strategist writer Hilary Reid bought this Kule cashmere sweater on sale. She says it's the "softest, most substantial-feeling cashmere sweater" she owns. It has an "ideal and elusive crewneck fit: It's cut comfortably close enough to wear on its own, but can still accommodate a shirt underneath without looking bulky." It comes in a wide range of classic patterns of black, white, brown, and navy stripes, as well as less-traditional patterns that feature fun multicolored stripes.
Sizing: XS to XLStyle and details: Oversized crewneck with stripesPrice: $$$
Since luxury brand La Ligne is known for its signature stripes, I tried an oversize version of the Lean Lines sweater. Out of all the sweaters I tested, this one was definitely the softest and closest to that "buttery" feel you'd expect from cashmere without being mushy or slick feeling. Because of that, it's very cozy, but it seems lightweight enough to wear through spring. It never feels stuffy, even when I wear it under my coats. It arrived without any pilling, and it hasn't pilled after two wears. As for fit, it's truly oversize (though note, I'm five-foot-one and petite) without feeling frumpy, which may be owing to its overall luxe feel.
Sizing: S to XLStyle and details: Crewneck button down cardiganPrice: $
I've had this State Cashmere button-down cardigan since February, and it's been the perfect transitional piece from winter to spring. I've worn it both on its own fully buttoned and thrown on top of tank tops or T-shirts on warmer days. Out of the box, it was incredibly soft but not mushy-feeling, and after being worn about a dozen times it hasn't pilled yet. It comes in four sizes: small to extra-large. And even though I'm typically a size extra-small, I found that the small fit me perfectly fine with a little extra room for layering. I own the undyed white colorway, and it also comes in black, gray, beige, and baby blue.
$135 at State Cashmere
Buy
Sizing: XL to 3XLStyle and details: Ribbed crewneckPrice: $$
Lands' End's plus-size cardigan comes in sizes XL to 3XL. "After seeing some of my favorite straight-size influencers in cardigans, I went on the hunt for a plus-size version," says Lauren Chan, founder of clothing brand Henning, and this Lands' End cardigan checked all the boxes for her. She calls it "classic" and "simple," and it "pairs super-well with either light-wash jeans or gray sweats — win-win," she adds. Even better, it comes in five colors.
Sizing: One sizeStyle and details: ShawlPrice: $$
Strategist contributor Diksha Basu first put this oversize J.Crew wrap on our radar last December. Unlike the other dozens of shawls she's tried, this one is both durable and stylish. "I have spilled hand sanitizer on it, my kids have touched it with fingers sticky with apple juice, Goldfish crumbs have adorned it," she says. "I just wipe things off with an unscented baby wipe and the shawl looks good as new." The piece transforms "harried morning school drop-offs" and chilly outdoor-dining outfits "from shabby to chic with my favorite amount of effort, both for what I put on and for maintaining its condition: almost zero." As for its feel, it's "soft and light, almost like muslin, but in a way that seems like magic, it's not flimsy at all." Maguy Le Coze, co-owner of Le Bernardin, is also a fan because its roomy oversized fit means she can "wrap it around my shoulders and cover my upper arms."
Sizing: XS to XLQuality: Grade-AStyle and details: Open collar with no buttonsPrice: $
In addition to the crewneck, I also tested Quince's polo sweater. It has the same lightweight and buttery softness, just with a different cut. I've had this sweater longer — about four months now — so I've been able to wear it more than the crewneck. I found myself reaching for it through this past fall, even on those unusually warm days, because it's breezy and a somewhat less conventional cut. After a couple dozen or so wears it has pilled very slightly around the arms. But it's such a good price that I think it's still worth it. Like the brand's crewneck, this sweater is available in sizes XS to XL but in just five colorways: ivory, navy, camel, black, and heather gray.
Sizing: XXS to XXLStyle and details: Crewneck with checkered pattern designPrice: $$$
Two experts we spoke to called out Leret Leret because it offers sweaters with a range of patterns. "They design really playful cashmere sweaters with fun prints if you're looking for something a bit more unique than a classic cashmere sweater that is still high-quality," says stylist Savannah White. Nicole Berrie, founder of Bonberi and author of Body Harmony, also likes its "quirky" designs. "It's the best gift for someone who values quality and that 'It' factor," she says.
Sizing: XS to XLStyle and details: Crewneck, color-blocked designPrice: $$$
Megababe's founder Katie Sturino turns to Garin for her cashmere sweaters because it offers a mix of everyday neutrals as well as colorful patterns. Her personal go-tos are its fun designs, like this crewneck with space details. It's worth noting that the sweater isn't the cheapest on the list, but design-y cashmere tends to run into the hundreds of dollars and this happens to be on the lower end, making it a solid mid-priced option. "I'm also a huge fan of the brand for their commitment to sustainability," Sturino adds. "Each sweater is animal- and ecofriendly and 100 percent biodegradable."
• Lilli Millhiser, stylist• Mina Alyeshmerni, owner of online boutique Maimoun• Kate Mullin, director of brand marketing and global communications at Anine Bing• Maxine Builder, Strategist editor• Titilola Sogunro, fashion blogger at Titi's Passion• Chloe Anello, former Strategist writer• Diksha Basu, Strategist contributor• Maguy Le Coze, co-owner of Le Bernardin• Dominique Porter, founder of sleepwear line the Glad Hours• Sabine Le Guyader, co-founder of Lady Grey Jewelry• Torie Tilley, founder of jewelry brand Common Era• Hilary Reid, former Strategist writer• Dominique Pariso, Strategist writer• Lauren Chan, founder of clothing brand Henning• Sonia Beyda Mosseri, founder and designer of NYC-based brand Still Here• Savannah White, stylist• Nicole Berrie, founder of Bonberi and author of Body Harmony• Katie Sturino, founder of Megababe
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14 Stylish Ways To Wear A Sweater Vest This Fall
In the Venn diagram of the '90s redux, the return of prep, and the tenniscore trend, one clothing item stands alone at the center: the sweater vest. Beloved by everyone from sitcom dads to hip-hop icons to Emma Chamberlain, the sweater vest has vast appeal. And although it has slipped in and out of style for decades, if you're wondering whether sweater vests are cool at the moment, the answer would be a definitive yes. The piece is firmly back in the fashion zeitgeist, and was seen in collections from Gucci to Ganni — not to mention on street style stars everywhere.
Now, if you're questioning just what to wear with a sweater vest, we don't blame you. There are a few elements to consider, from what top to layer underneath (if any), to what bottoms you pair with it. But you'll be happy to know the piece is much more versatile than you might have thought, and the options are nearly endless. What was once considered "geek chic" is now just "chic" — think slouchy, skater-inspired outfits, matching sets, cozy layered looks, and more.
Ahead, we've rounded up 14 ways to wear the sweater vest this fall, for every occasion and aesthetic.
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With a Denim Skirt Edward Berthelot/Getty Images '90s prints feel right at home with another signature piece from the decade, the denim maxiskirt. Layer the vest over a thin turtleneck for a sleek appearance, as well as a bit of added warmth as the weather gets chillier.02 of 14
Over a T-Shirt Edward Berthelot/Getty Images Also straight out of the '90s? A button-down sweater vest layered on top of a T-shirt. But when paired with It pieces like barrel-leg jeans, printed heels, and a micro bag, the outfit feels modern, not dated.03 of 14
Slouchy and Cool Edward Berthelot/Getty Images It can be tempting to pair a roomier sweater vest with more fitted bottoms, but you don't necessarily need to. Lean into the silhouette with baggy jeans, a loose-fitting tee, and sneakers or loafers for optimal ease.04 of 14
With All Knitwear Jeremy Moeller/Getty Images For all the cozy vibes, pair a cropped argyle sweater vest with an oversized cardigan and bodycon knit skirt. And don't worry about print overload; as fashion editor and stylist Gabriella Karefa-Johnson demonstrates here, mixing prints keeps the look unexpectedly fresh and fun.05 of 14
With a Satin Skirt Edward Berthelot/Getty Images On the other hand, you can also play with styling opposing textures, like cableknit and satin. Wear your sweater vest with a silk skirt for a juxtaposition that feels equally at home at a fancy event as it does at brunch.06 of 14
Open Over a Button-Down Edward Berthelot/Getty Images Instead of wearing a buttoned-up vest snugly layered with another top, you can wear it loosely for a more relaxed look. With this outfit, the vest adds a down-to-earth quality to an otherwise crisp button-down shirt, jeans, and heels outfit.07 of 14
With a Printed Dress Edward Berthelot/Getty Images A sweater vest over a dress is easy enough. But if you're nervous about pairing a loud color with an even louder print, don't be; the solid color actually helps temper the pattern in the dress. Keep the pieces in the same color family for a tonal vibe, or go for contrasting hues to make an even bigger statement.08 of 14
With Printed Pants Edward Berthelot/Getty Images It's no secret we're fans of a party pant around here, and that love applies to a sweater vest outfit as well. Teaming a whimsical pant style with a more subdued vest and a basic button-down creates balance, as does adding accessories with a similar color story.09 of 14
In Classic Black and White Edward Berthelot/Getty Images Black and white is a good way to dip your toes into any trend, this one very much included. Sure, the color palette may be simple, but it never misses. A white vest with black bottoms is easy and classic, but a black vest with white pants would be just as cool.10 of 14
In a Novelty Print Edward Berthelot/Getty Images Of course, sweater vests can come in every color of the rainbow, but there is a whole world of fun prints to explore too. If a statement style is outside of your comfort zone, you can always pair it back to jeans or black pants to let the top shine.11 of 14
With a Tennis Skirt Edward Berthelot/Getty Images The sweater vest's academic energy feels right at home with other sporty pieces like the tennis skirt. To keep the look from feeling like it won't work outside of a country club, style it with unexpected footwear like heels and knee-high socks, or even lug-sole boots.12 of 14
With a Sequin Skirt Edward Berthelot/Getty Images Like a satin skirt, a sequin piece can take just about anything into evening hours. We love the casual-meets-fancy pairing of a sweater vest and a paillette-covered skirt (and yes, you can wear it for a daytime event as well).13 of 14
With Patchwork Jeans Edward Berthelot/Getty Images Patchwork denim and sweater vests are similarly laid-back, and therefore look just right when worn together. That being said, we recommend keeping the vest on the simpler side to avoid overwhelming the patchwork details.14 of 14
With a Matching Skirt Edward Berthelot/Getty Images Fear not: The matching set trend doesn't exclude sweater vests. Pair your coordinating knits with accessories that stand out against the fabric, such as spangly jewelry and rubber rain boots.Cozy Up For Fall With Stylish Sweater Sets We Found At Amazon For Under $60
It's that awkward time of year when it's too warm to break out fall flannels, yet too cool for sundresses. Rather than sweat in the morning and freeze at night, opt for a sweater set. These sets are stylish enough to be worn in public and plenty comfy to double as loungewear.
Right now, you can find a slew of sweater sets with thousands of rave reviews at Amazon. Shoppers can pick up two-piece shorts sets and coordinated sweatsuits that are equal parts lightweight and cozy, making them ideal for the summer-to-fall transition period. The best part? They're all under $60 — and prices are up to 55 percent off.
Keep reading for the best sweater sets you can buy at Amazon right now.
Best Sweater Sets at Amazon PrettyGarden Two-Piece Crewneck Jumpsuit, $37.59 with coupon (orig. $46.99) Mafulus Two-Piece Off-Shoulder Top with Matching Shorts Set, $41.98 (orig. $59.98) Pink Queen Pullover and Wide-Leg Pants Sweatsuit, $31.19 with coupon (orig. $51.99) Fixmatti High-Neck Sweater and Wide-Leg Pant Sweater Set, $32.38 with coupon (orig. $53.97) PrettyGarden Two-Piece Solid Color Sweatsuit, $41.99 (orig. $50.99) Merokeety Oversized Batwing Sleeve Top and Shorts Set, $42.31 with coupon (orig. $49.99) Anrabess Two-Piece Pullover Top and High-Waisted Pants Sweater Set, $55.99 Viottiset Casual V-Neck Knit Sweater and Wide-Leg Pants Set, $36.39 with coupon (orig. $69.99) Chartou Cable Knit Long Skirt Two-Piece Sweater Set, $39.55 with coupon Luvamia Fuzzy Fleece Sweater Set, $46.05 with coupon (orig. $58.99) Ekouaer Long Puff Sleeve Top and Shorts Two-Piece Sweatsuit, $32.93 with coupon (orig. $46.99) Anrabess Long Sleeve Pullover and Drawstring Pant Sweater Set, $47.69 with coupon (orig. $57.99) PrettyGarden Two-Piece Crewneck Jumpsuit, $38 with Coupon Amazon Whether you're looking for loungewear, a new work-from-home uniform, or something more stylish than sweatpants for running errands, this two-piece set is the move. With a minimalist crewneck pullover and matching high-waisted joggers (both made from a polyester and spandex blend), it's an outfit that's as comfy as it is cute. Consider it the Goldilocks of sweatsuits: Not too baggy, not too tight, but just right. Available in 26 colors — including styles with "Be Kind" emblazoned on the front — it comes in women's sizes S–3XL. With more than 11,000 five-star ratings, it should come as no surprise that it's a customer-loved sweater set. Many people describe it as "very comfortable," with users praising how roomy and lightweight it is. One shopper went so far as to say that it "feels like" they're "wearing pajamas," while another added, "I wear it everywhere!" Mafulus Two-Piece Off-Shoulder Top with Matching Shorts Set, $42 Amazon Those still in summer mode should consider this breezy two-piece set, which comes in both long-sleeve and sleeveless styles. Made of a forgiving spandex and breathable knit blend, the top has a slouchy, off-the-shoulder silhouette. The pull-on drawstring shorts are equally comfortable with a relaxed cut. Available in 30 colors, the sweater set comes in women's sizes S–XXL. Tip: Size up if you like an oversized fit. It comes highly recommended by more than 2,100 shoppers. According to reviewers, the material is "very stretchy" and "lightweight," making it ideal for that tricky transition season. "These are perfect for Texas fall weather," one shopper explained, noting that they stay comfortable when it's cool in the morning and hot in the afternoon. Pink Queen Pullover and Wide-Leg Pants Sweatsuit, $31 with Coupon Amazon One of the highlights of this sweatsuit is that you can wear it as a matching set or as separates — which means you're essentially getting three outfits in one. The crewneck top has playful batwing sleeves and side slits to allow for movement, while the high-waisted wide-leg pants are finished off with an elastic waistband. Available in 30 colors — including beige, blush pink, and wine red — it comes in women's sizes S–XL. More than 1,300 Amazon shoppers have given the sweater set a five-star rating, with many saying they've bought multiples in different colors. "Seriously the comfiest thing I've ever worn," one person gushed. Another reviewer liked how "even though it's pants and long sleeves, the material allows [for] great air flow and doesn't make me hot." Fixmatti High-Neck Sweater and Wide-Leg Pant Sweater Set, $32 with Coupon Amazon The elegant high neckline and wide-leg pants make this sweater set an outfit you can easily dress up or down. Slip on the knit pullover — which features a ribbed hem and center seam accent — to lounge around the house on a lazy Sunday or add some ankle booties to the relaxed-fit pants for brunch. Available in 29 colors, the set comes in women's sizes S–XL. It's a hit with more than 600 shoppers who have given the sweater set a five-star rating, claiming the fabric is "substantial" and "not flimsy." "I feel dressed up even though it's not formal," one shopper said, while another confessed they've even worn it to work (and received compliments!). Keep reading for more customer-loved sweater sets you can buy at Amazon. PrettyGarden Two-Piece Solid Color Sweatsuit, $42 (Save 18%) Amazon Merokeety Oversized Batwing Sleeve Top and Shorts Set, $42 with Coupon Amazon Anrabess Two-Piece Pullover Top and High-Waisted Pants Sweater Set, $55 Amazon Viottiset Casual V-Neck Knit Sweater and Wide-Leg Pants Set, $36 with Coupon Amazon Chartou Cable Knit Long Skirt Two-Piece Sweater Set, $40 with Coupon Amazon Luvamia Fuzzy Fleece Sweater Set, $46 with Coupon Amazon Ekouaer Long Puff Sleeve Top and Shorts Two-Piece Sweatsuit, $33 with Coupon Amazon Anrabess Long Sleeve Pullover and Drawstring Pant Sweater Set, $42 with Coupon Amazon Do you love a good deal? Sign up for PEOPLE's Shopping newsletter to stay up to date on the latest sales, plus celebrity fashion, home decor and more.
