It’s happening again: a cold snap, a morning scramble for mittens, and—if you’re like me—pulling out all of my cashmere sweaters. And I am a longtime lover of cashmere. Cashmere is warm, soft, and is one of the few fabrics I have worn to both black-tie events and the ski slopes. In winter, I wear cashmere sweaters daily – either lounging at home with sweatpants (yup, I’ve even slept in cashmere), running errands in the cold, or going out at night, whether fancy or casual.
There are few closet pieces that get as much use as my cashmere sweaters.
Wearing: sweater (s) | jeans (29)
Not only does cashmere drape beautifully – one reason it never looks out of place at fancy events – but it has some serious performance cred, too. Like most technical fabrics, cashmere is made for exercise. Why? It’s moisture-wicking and breathable, so you can wear it for sweaty endeavors like skiing (It’s the best midlayer I own) or even cold-weather hiking. Since cashmere is a natural fiber, it washes up beautifully, and doesn’t take on bad smells like other performance fabrics.
My Cashmere Sweater Quick Hit List
- Best Cashmere Sweater Overall – this one
- Best Cashmere, Runner Up – this one
- Best Affordable Cashmere Sweater – this one
- Best Cashmere Turtleneck – this one
- Best Cashmere V-Neck – this one
- Best Cashmere Cardigan – this one
- Best Recycled Cashmere Sweater – this one
- Best Cropped Cashmere Sweater – this one
- Best Under $100 – this one
- Best Cashmere Fisherman Sweater – this one
- Best Plus-Size Sweaters – one | two
- Best For Work – this one
- Best For Parties – this one
- Best Cardigan For Dressing Up – this one
- Best For Apres Ski – this one
The Best Women’s Cashmere Sweaters of 2026
Each year, in order to create this guide, I spend months researching, ordering, trying on, and sending back dozens of cashmere sweaters for women. At this point…I’ve tried on hundreds of cashmere sweaters over the years, and put many brands through some pretty long-term (years-long?) tests.
The reason I think this research is so important is because a cashmere sweater can be, in general, something of a splurge. And the price of cashmere varies greatly: some sweaters can be had for as little as $99, while others are as high as…$5000??!! (Admittedly, that’s the coolest fair isle I’ve ever seen…but still.) Once again, the price of cashmere sweaters have shot up significantly – more than $20 per sweater!!
So which cashmere sweaters hit that sweet spot of quality + price?
For the purposes of this guide, I’m only focusing on cashmere sweaters for women under $550. After trying on almost all cashmere known to man (haha), I think cashmere over $550 is rarely worth the extra cost (and some are even kind of terrible). Simply put – there are too many incredibly delicious cashmere sweaters under $550 to focus on – without compromise – and some of my favorites below are less than $300.
The Best Cashmere Sweaters (Including Chunky Knits, Boxy Pullovers, Cardigans, Fisherman, and Stripes)
If you read this guide every year, you’ll likely recognize some of the brands – per usual, Jenni Kayne and Quince are back (they feel like permanent fixtures at this point). That said, there are a couple of pretty big changes. First of all, the top pick in last year’s guide, Reformation’s Cove Cashmere Sweater now contains 5% wool which does change the feel somewhat, so it has been relegated to honorable mentions. New to the guide this year? Aritzia and Banana Republic. Banana seems to have (mostly) fixed the technical construction issues that plagued them last year, and Aritzia’s cashmere was a really nice surprise – it’s softer and thicker than I expected, especially for the price.
Let’s get into it!!
1. Best Cashmere Sweater Overall: COS Rounded Pure Cashmere Crewneck Sweater
Why we love it: Literally the softest, thickest, most delicious sweater of them all.
- ETHICS: no certification listed
- SIZE RANGE: XS–XL
- COLORS: brown mélange, gray mélange, dark green, cream
- FIT: TTS (I’m wearing a medium)
- PRICE: $349
If you are looking for a seriously thick, like, old-school-deliciously-warm cashmere sweater…it’s this one. COS nailed everything about this sweater, including the fit. It feels oversized and is roomy through the body, but it’s not overly long, so the banded waistband creates a little shape. And the sleeves are generous, the lines and drape are just phenomenal.
The color range is pretty limited (there’s no black, for example), but the brown (above) and gray, in particular, are stunning, with a subtle variation to the knit that looks really high-end. I also really liked the dark green, too.
The only problem I have with COS cashmere in general is that it tends to sell out quickly. And I get it – the price is almost shockingly low, compared to everything else out there.
NOTE: I’ve gotten some questions about COS’s “regular” cashmere sweater (a thinner version of the one I’m wearing above). Bottom line? Skip it. At $279 the price is too high for what it is – you’re better off going with Quince’s Mongolian Cashmere Sweater.
2. Best Cashmere Sweater Runner Up: Loulou De Saison Baltra Cashmere Sweater
Why we love it: Parisian nonchalance, but in cashmere – thick, refined, and seriously so cool.
Where To Buy: Nordstrom (navy) | Net-A-Porter (tan,navy) | Bergdorf (‘peppered’ gray) | Farfetch (black!) | SSense (‘peppered’ gray)
- ETHICS: OEKO-TEX® Certified
- SIZE RANGE: XS–XL
- COLORS: tan, navy, black, peppered anthracite
- FIT: TTS (I’m wearing a small)
- PRICE: $420
French-girl brand Loulou de Saison has my freaking NUMBER. The tailoring is impeccable – curved hems, perfectly designed sleeves, some sort of cool shoulder seam detail, the most nonchalant drape – and then there’s the cashmere itself: thick enough (more than most, less than COS), soft and cozy. While LouLou doesn’t share sourcing details (it’s OEKO-TEX® certified but not recycled or GCS-certified), the quality is fantastic. Photos do NOT do this piece justice. It’s the kind of piece I put on and Marisa, my photographer, literally gasps, “OHHHHHHHH….”.
sweater (s) | jeans (28) | boots
This sweater ended up being the sweater I reached for – over and over – when I wanted to look GOOD. I cannot recommend it highly enough. If you only buy ONE cashmere sweater…it’s this one.
3. Best Affordable Cashmere Sweater: Quince Mongolian Cashmere Crew
Why we love it: 100% Mongolian cashmere that looks and feels luxe (for a fraction of the price).
Where To Buy: Quince
- ETHICS: 100% Mongolian Cashmere
- SIZE RANGE: XS–XL
- COLORS: 12 solid colors
- FIT: TTS, but slightly oversized (I’m wearing a size small)
- PRICE: $120
I’ve tried on a lot of Quince cashmere, and this one – with its oversized, boyfriend cut – is Quince’s best. Unlike most affordable cashmere, Quince’s Oversized Mongolian Cashmere Sweater is shockingly thick (for only $120!!), super soft, and bananas cozy. The heft and cut both feel like a much more expensive sweater, and many of the colors look high-end. Quince didn’t skip on the sleeves, either – they’re nice and long – and this sweater, overall, is an absolute steal.
These sweaters were probably my most-worn sweaters last year. The combination of looks and price is so freaking good – not only did I wear these cashmere sweaters out and about (and travelling!!), but I used them as skiing midlayers, too. Or throwing on over workout gear. Or to take a nap. 🙂 Considering how hard I wore these sweaters – especially the black one – along with a wash or two, it’s looking pretty darn good, one year later. The photo on the left is from last year, the photo on the right is now.
That said, this sweater does pill faster than really high-end cashmere. Pilling doesn’t necessarily bother me – all cashmere pills eventually – but you may need to invest in a cashmere sweater shaver.
This sweater comes in a bunch of colors, too – it’s one of the few pieces I do own multiples of.
sweater (s) | jeans (30) | boots | earrings (coming soon)
4. Best Recycled Cashmere Sweater: Reformation Cove Oversized Cashmere Crew
Why we love it: Recycled cashmere is still a win – the fit, drape, and thickness still make it a standout.
Where To Buy: Reformation
- ETHICS: 100% Recycled fibers (95% recycled cashmere / 5% recycled wool)
- SIZE RANGE: XS – XL
- COLORS: 9 solids, 6 patterns (varsity stripe & argyle)
- FIT: TTS for a perfectly oversized fit (I’m wearing a size small)
- PRICE: $298
This has been one of my most-worn sweaters, three years running. I did throw a slight tantrum when Reformation changed the fabric to a cashmere/wool blend (instead of 100% cashmere, like the original), but…after wearing this blend around for a year, I’m OK. It’s OK. [deep breath] It’s gonna be OK.
After a bit of research and testing….the 5% addition of wool (new for this year: recycled wool) is needed because recycled cashmere fibers are shorter, so the 5% addition of wool just helps the sweater keep its shape. And while I absolutely can tell a difference on bare skin…I’ll admit that the difference is pretty slight (and I have very sensitive skin).
What hasn’t changed? The silhouette, drape, and coziness of this sweater is phenomenal – I own it multiple colors, and it’s been one of my most-worn sweaters overall.
sweater (s) | jeans (28) | boots
It’s oversized and slouchy, yet fits under most of my winter coats just fine. It also washes well – I machine wash mine on cold, then lay them flat to dry. (The sweaters get a tiiiiny bit shorter after washing, but the change is barely noticeable.)
5. Best For Dressing Up: Reformation Easton Cashmere Sweater
Why we love it: One of the most elegant sweaters I’ve ever tried.
Where To Buy: Reformation
- ETHICS: 100% Recycled fibers (cashmere / wool blend), GCS-certified
- SIZE RANGE: XS – XL
- COLORS: Ivory, black
- FIT: TTS (I’m wearing a size small)
- PRICE: $348
Another sweater in a 95% recycled cashmere / 5% recycled wool blend, this one would’ve been one of my very top picks had it been 100% cashmere. This sweater is, quite simply, jaw-droppingly gorgeous. The cashmere is thick and soft, and the lines are so chic. A truly stunning piece.
sweater (s) | jeans (28) | boots
6. Best Turtleneck: Banana Republic Relaxed Cashmere Turtleneck Sweater
Why we love it: The easiest, wear-everyday shape + really unique colors
Where To Buy: Banana Republic
- ETHICS: The Good Cashmere Standard® certified
- SIZE RANGE: XXS – XXL
- COLORS: 8 solid colors
- FIT: TTS (I’m wearing a small)
- PRICE: $248
This turtleneck sweater has such a perfect shape – it’s one I wore a ton last year, so I’m thrilled to see BR bringing it back in 8 seriously good colors (at the same price as last year!). This was a sweater that I got a bunch of unexpected compliments on. The colors are like a breath of fresh air – they manage to feel completely current yet unique – and the shape is dead easy. This is the turtleneck version of a throw-on-and-go sweater, with great lines, good details, and – most importantly!! – a turtleneck that drapes perfectly, and doesn’t overwhelm, itch, or feel like a neck brace (haha but seriously – I hate when sweaters do that!).
7. Best Cropped Cardigan: Maria de la Orden Leti Cardigan
Where to buy: Maria de la Orden
- ETHICS: 100% cashmere (no certification listed)
- SIZE RANGE: XS – L
- COLORS: 4 different two-tone options, 1 solid
- FIT: TTS (I’m wearing a small)
- PRICE: $331
This cashmere cardigan is from a small Madrid-based brand known for playful, retro shapes and really unique pieces. It’s a very IYKYK European brand, and this cashmere sweater is an easy example. The two-tone color options are all seriously cool, and the shape is perfect: boxy, not too cropped, with a great sleeve length. The cashmere is lofty, thick, and delightfully soft. While the brand styles this cardigan for work (over one of their really cool button-up shirts), I’ve been wearing it like a shirt. It’s a really unique piece that I’ve been getting a ton of compliments on.
8. Best Cashmere Fisherman Sweater: Jenni Kayne Cashmere Fisherman
Why we love it: Cozy luxury in a timeless shape, wildly versatile & sustainably sourced
Where To Buy: Jenni Kayne
- ETHICS: 100% Mongolian Cashmere (no longer GCS-certified)
- SIZE RANGE: XS–3XL
- COLORS:
- FIT: TTS (I’m wearing a medium for extra slouch)
- PRICE: $395
Jenni Kayne’s Fisherman Sweater is still the one to beat. While I’m disappointed that this sweater is no longer made from GCS-certified cashmere, she did drop this price this year from $425 back down to $395 (although, for this price, I’d rather a slight increase to keep the Good Cashmere Standard®). That said, this sweater is seriously thick & cozy…yet refined, too. The drape is next-level, and it feels ridiculously soft against even the most sensitive skin. Despite the wear and tear I’ve put on it, my sweater holds its shape season after season. I reach for mine constantly – errands, dinners out, travel, skiing, all of it. Available in an inclusive range of sizes (yay!!), and spun from long-fiber yarns for exceptional softness and minimal pilling.
While this sweater fits TTS, I suggest sizing up one size for extra slouch.
Sizing: Small Vs Medium
And because I know you’re going to ask…how does Jenni Kayne’s Fisherman sweater compare to the almost-identical Quince fisherman sweater ?
Jenni Kayne Vs. Quince Fisherman Sweaters
Side-by-side, the difference is subtle – at first! If you look closely, the Jenni Kayne sweater has stitches that almost look “prettier” because they’re using a higher-quality yarn (it’s finer, the longer fibers spun evenly) and the knit gauge is balanced – not too tight, not too loose. Each stitch looks defined and dimensional. This gives the sweater that impeccable drape it’s known for.
Comparatively, the Quince sweater stitches look tighter, more uniform. They’re knitting with a slightly thinner yarn, at a slightly looser gauge. These stitches, in comparison, look neat but flat. This construction means that the Quince sweater doesn’t drape as well as Jenni’s, and it pills much faster. Additionally, the cuff and hem finishes on the Quince sweater aren’t as refined (or durable) as the Jenni Kayne.
9. Best Novelty: Naadam Apres Ski Sweater
Why we love it: Ridiculously thick and soft, with vintage ski vibes.
Where To Buy: Nadaam
- ETHICS: 100% Mongolian Cashmere (no longer GCS-certified)
- SIZE RANGE: XXS – 3XL
- COLORS: also in pine green or blue
- FIT: TTS for an oversized fit (I’m wearing a small)
- PRICE: $348
One of my all-time favorite sweaters from the past two winters, I’m THRILLED that Nadaam brought it back again this year, in additional colors!! The vibe is pure vintage ski sweater, but instead of scratchy wool (like actual vintage ski sweaters) or acrylic (like most novelty ski sweaters), this one has been made with 100% cashmere. In fact, this sweater is part of Nadaam’s Super Luxe line, which means that it’s among the thickest and softest cashmere I’ve ever worn. And while it’s no longer GCS-certified, it’s one of the few sweaters this year that hasn’t increased in price.
Nadaam’s return process, however, is a little annoying – in the past I’ve had to process returns for each piece individually (and readers have complained about this, too). That said, this sweater is one of their very best (and it’s honestly hard to beat), and the sizing is really forgiving, so returns may not be such a risk. I wear mine alllll the time.
sweater (s)
What is The Good Cashmere Standard® (Or GCS-Certified)?
It was created by the AbTF (Aid By Trade Foundation) to improve transparency and animal welfare in the cashmere supply chain.
To be certified, herders and mills must follow guidelines covering:
- Animal welfare: goats are combed (not shorn), kept in good health, and have sufficient grazing land.
- Environmental stewardship: limits on over-grazing and land degradation.
- Social responsibility: fair pay and working conditions for herders.
- Traceability: every bale of cashmere can be traced back to its origin farm.
It’s basically the cashmere world’s equivalent of “organic + fair-trade,” and it’s one of the only third-party verifications that tracks animal care and supply chain integrity.
10. Best Ladylike Cardigans: Reformation Clara & Caspia Cardigans
Why we love it: The perfect ladylike cardigan shape, yet decidedly unfussy.
Where To Buy: Reformation | Nordstrom
- ETHICS: 95% recycled cashmere and 5% virgin cashmere
- SIZE RANGE: XS – XL
- COLORS: 15 solids, 4 stripes, 2 argyle
- FIT: Runs big (I’m wearing a XS)
- PRICE: $198
I now own Ref’s Clara cashmere cardigan in two colors and it’s great. Ref nailed the shape and the length: it’s *almost* cropped, which means that it doesn’t look dowdy thrown over a dress, but just long enough to wear as a shirt (with the barest hint of skin peeking out of low-rise jeans). It can also be tucked into a pair of high-rise jeans or trousers, too. I find that this cashmere sweater runs a bit big – I wear an XS (and I almost never wear an XS in anything).
Reformation also makes a similar cardigan, the Caspia Cropped Cashmere Cardigan, in the exact same cashmere (weight, softness and 95/5 recycled and virgin cashmere) but the Caspia has an even more shrunken, ladylike shape. I own both the Clara and the Caspia, but I find that I reach for the Caspia more when dressing up. The Caspia fits TTS (I’m wearing the size small).
cardigan (s)
Lastly, I also appreciate that – regardless of the color you choose in either style – the buttons match. It’s a small detail, but really elevates these ladylike cardigans, and speaks to the overall thoughtfulness and quality!
11. Best Everyday Cardigan: Jenni Kayne Cropped Cocoon Cardigan
Why we love it: Gahhh because it’s PERFECT, OK?
Where To Buy: Jenni Kayne
- ETHICS: The Good Cashmere Standard® certified
- SIZE RANGE: XS–3XL
- COLORS: 9 solid colors
- FIT: TTS (I’m wearing a medium for extra slouch in the darker color, small in the lighter)
- PRICE: $445
This is one of the greatest cashmere cardigans ever. Not only is this cardigan wildly soft (even Kat, who is notoriously picky, gave it a nod in her plus-size review of Jenni Kayne), but the overall design is impeccable. It’s easy to see why this sweater put Jenni Kayne on the map. I’ve worn this sweater alone, like a shirt (the low neckline is sexy!), but I’ve also layered it over a big ‘ol graphic tee, too – these sweaters layer like a dream…yet they still fit under a jacket. They’re the goldilocks of cashmere sweaters.
That said…once again, I was pretty bummed to see Jenni Kayne departing from The Good Cashmere Standard®. While she did lower the price (it’s now $445 instead of $475 like last year), I’d really like to see her find a supplier that is GSC-certified. It was something I always admired about this brand.
While Quince does make a very similar piece, the difference between this Jenni Kayne sweater & the Quince one is pretty stark – at least, once you put it on (and especially if you have a larger chest). The Jenni Kayne sweater has been cut to lay perfectly on the body, and the balanced, even stitches make the drape next-level.
Additionally, the sizing is wildly forgiving. The darker color I’m wearing (‘shadow’) is a size medium, but I also have the oatmeal color in size small. Both work!
sweater (s) | jeans (28) | boots
12. Best Texture: Haven Well Within Open Stitch Cashmere Sweater
Where to buy: Haven Well Within
- ETHICS: 100% cashmere (no certification listed)
- SIZE RANGE: XS-XXL
- COLORS: Also see this open knit
- FIT: Runs small (wearing a medium)
- PRICE: $288
If you haven’t yet heard of Haven Well Within (one of Oprah’s fav brands, fyi), it’s basically Talbots’ casual little sister. The fits are a bit more traditional than oversized, but their big standout – according to, uh, moi (haha) – are their cashmere sweaters in these gorgeously textured knits. The softness is next-level, and the open-weave is not nearly as delicate as others I’ve tried. Nobody is doing textured cashmere nearly as well, especially for the price. I love the stripes (she always loves the stripes), but it might be worth also checking out their open-knit crewneck sweater in merlot or taupe or – if you want texture without skin showing – their cashmere ‘exploded cable knit’ sweater. Stunning.
13. Best U-Neck Cashmere Sweater: Reformation Joanie Scoop Neck Sweater
Where to buy: Reformation
- ETHICS: 95% recycled cashmere and 5% recycled wool
- SIZE RANGE: XS – XL
- COLORS: 5 colors
- FIT: Runs big (I’m wearing a S)
- PRICE: $398
This is one of the most exciting new cashmere sweaters out there. It’s a slightly looser weave than Reformation’s other sweaters, but incredibly soft and lofty. The necklace is so freaking cool and is such a fun, sexy upgrade to a cozy cashmere sweater. The sweater runs big overall, but is deliciously cozy. I love it.
14. Best Grandpa Cardigan: Quince Luxe Baby Cashmere Cable Knit
Why we love it: Absolutely delicious cashmere with a surprisingly sexy fit…and affordable price.
Where To Buy: Quince
- ETHICS: 100% mongolian cashmere
- SIZE RANGE: XS-XL
- COLORS: gray, ivory, tan, dark charcoal gray
- FIT: TTS (but I sized up for extra slouch – wearing a medium)
- PRICE: $249
This cardigan has been sold out for months, and only recently came back in stock! So many readers had reached out about Quince’s Baby Cashmere line that I had to try…and this cardigan was my favorite piece. It’s wildly soft and incredibly thick – in fact, it’ actually one of the thickest cashmere sweaters in this entire guide. And while this sweater may be pricey for Quince…it’s an absolute steal given the quality. Quince doesn’t always get it right, but this piece is truly a wow.
14. Best V-Neck Sweater: One Gray Day
Where to buy: One Gray Day
- ETHICS: 100% cashmere, no certification listed
- SIZE RANGE: XS-XL
- COLORS: 10 solids, 1 stripe
- FIT: TTS (but I sized up for extra slouch – wearing a medium)
- PRICE: $278
Laura was the one who first discovered this sweater and…whoa. It was the fit that got me. The sleeves are an absolute win – I love when they pool like that – and the neckline is *almost* off the shoulder. This cashmere is thinner and looser knit than the other sweaters featured here, but still lofty and super soft. This sweater is almost a tiny bit sheer, too, but very wearable – I love it.
What’s the Deal With Brushed Cashmere??
I know these soft, fluffy sweaters are trending – literally everyone from J.Crew to Lisa Yang is coming out with brushed cashmere sweaters – but I’m not including them in this guide. Why?
The brushed effect is created with fine metal rollers that literally brush up the fibers to create that fuzzy texture, but it also means that these cashmere fibers are shorter, looser, and rub together more easily, which means more pilling. Brushed cashmere can look festive – but it’s more like a special top (read: only wear occasionally), rather than a hardworking, wear-everyday cashmere sweater.
15. Aritzia Essential Cashmere Relaxed Crew
Why we love it: surprisingly thick and soft for the price, with a minimalist shape that feels elevated.
Where To Buy: Aritzia
- ETHICS: GCS-certified
- SIZE RANGE: 2XS – 2XL
- COLORS: 6 solid colors, 2 really cool stripes
- FIT: TTS (I’m wearing a size small)
- PRICE: $178
On a happier note, Aritzia’s cashmere sweater was such a pleasant surprise!! For under $200, this sweater is thick, cozy, and deliciously soft. Available in a wide range of colors (with a serious commitment to tan – haha, much respect), I love how this sweater walks the line of oversized and classic. It’s a really nifty, easy-to-wear cut that vibes like an oversized sweater, but is actually nicely reined in.
16. Quince Mongolian Cashmere Boxy Crewneck Sweater
Why we love it: The best cashmere sweater under $100.
Where To Buy: Quince
- ETHICS: 100% Mongolian Cashmere
- SIZE RANGE: XS – XL
- COLORS: 8 solid colors
- FIT: Runs small (I’m wearing a medium)
- PRICE: $80
I almost didn’t order Quince’s Boxy Cashmere Crew because it looked so boring & unflattering on Quince’s website. But, I took a chance – sizing up was the key!! – and was surprised by how good it is in person! It has a similar shape to Everlane’s boxy crewneck sweater, but is slightly longer (and softer initially). Like other Quince sweaters, it’ll pill quickly, so have a sweater shaver on hand.
The color selection is also fantastic – I’m partial to this fun red, but all of the colors have a sophistication to them that really helps to elevate this under $100 gem.
17. Vince Funnel-Neck Cashmere Sweater
Where To Buy: Nordstrom | Saks
- ETHICS: Unknown
- SIZE RANGE: XS – XL
- FIT: TTS (Wearing a size small)
- PRICE: $448
This Vince funnel neck sweater has made it into every cashmere guide we’ve published since we started five (six?) years ago! There are two things that make this sweater really special and unique: First, this sweater is knit from a boiled cashmere wool, which makes this sweater denser, thicker, and softer than most cashmere sweaters. It’s a truly dreamy sweater and sooo warm.
Second, the funnel neck is so sophisticated. Wear this sweater to work, pop it on for a zoom call, or make your tired, messy bun look intentional and chic.
18. Nordstrom Brand Cashmere
Why we love it: Easy & affordable
Where To Buy: Nordstrom Brand Sweater
- ETHICS: None listed
- SIZE RANGE: XS – XXL
- COLORS: 20 solids
- FIT: Runs small (I’m wearing a large)
- PRICE: $169 but almost always on sale for under $100
These cashmere sweaters are great for just knockin’ around. My trick is to wait until I spy a color that makes my heart beat fast, and then size up 2 sizes.
These sweaters washes like all of my other cashmere sweaters (in a mesh bag, on cold, lay flat to dry).
19. Best Cozy V-Neck Sweater: Quince
Why we love it: Wildly thick and soft, looks much more expensive than it is.
Where To Buy: Quince
- ETHICS: 100% Mongolian Cashmere
- SIZE RANGE: XS – XL
- COLORS: brown, oatmeal, black
- FIT: Slightly oversized (but I’m wearing my usual size, small)
- PRICE: $120
Again, Quince just kills it with these oversized Mongolian cashmere sweaters. This one is freaking good, and is wildly similar to Ref’s Jadey V-Neck sweater (which is now only 95% cashmere). But if you’re looking for a big ol’ cozy cashmere sweater to throw on (and we’re willing to deal with some pilling)..this one. They even got the colors right – this brown is gorgeous.
Cashmere Sweater FAQs
First of all, RARELY. I spot clean when I can, and try to keep the washing to a minimum. When I do wash them, it’s either hand-washing in cold water (with a little detergent from the Laundress, for example), or, for a sweater I’ve successfully washed before, I throw it into a front-loading washing machine (gentle cycle, cold water) in one of these mesh laundry bags. Lay flat to dry.
Handwashing is safest, but machine wash *most* of my cashmere. That said, I have a front-loading washing machine, and I only wash on gentle, cold cycles with my cashmere in this mesh laundry bag.
All cashmere pills eventually!! To slow it down, stick with higher quality, long-fiber cashmere, avoid friction from bags or rough coats, and give sweaters a rest between wears (I never do this, haha). My favorite way to keep cashmere from pilling is simply to use a sweater shaver. These gadgets WILL work on cashmere if you go slow, and dump out the fuzz often.
It means the textile was tested for harmful chemicals and dyes. OEKO-TEX focuses on human safety, ensuring the finished garment is non-toxic and skin-safe – not necessarily on animal welfare or sourcing ethics.
OEKO-TEX® = chemical safety for humans.
The Good Cashmere Standard® = animal welfare, land use, and traceability.
Together they cover both the health and ethical sides of cashmere production.
I like it…but it’s usually not quite as soft. Also, because the fibers are shorter, it may pill sooner, but blended versions (like 95% recycled + 5% virgin cashmere) balance eco-cred with wearability, and there’s some data that says blends like Reformation’s Cove Sweater (95% recycled cashmere + 5% wool) might be more durable, too.
Fold it, don’t hang it. Store clean sweaters in a breathable cotton bag with cedar or lavender to repel moths. In summer, seal them in an airtight bin for extra protection.
Each goat only produces a few ounces of down per year. Collecting, sorting, and spinning those fibers takes time and skill.
The region’s extreme climate helps goats grow longer, finer fibers, which produce especially soft, warm, and durable cashmere. Many top brands source from Mongolia for this reason.
This is tricky! Look for mentions of long-staple fibers, dense two-ply knits, and certifications like GCS or OEKO-TEX®. Also, you can try gently stretching the fabric – it should spring back, not sag.
If you made it this far….GOLD STAR. Thanks for hanging in there with me. 🙂
And if you’re curious about anyyyyy other cashmere sweater, there’s a decent chance I’ve tried it on at some point. Drop me a comment and I’ll do my best to remember!!
xo,
S
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