When I think of an iconic leading man, I immediately picture his sweater. From Mark Darcy’s cringe-worthy reindeer knit in Bridget Jones’s Diary to Harry Burns’s effortlessly cozy cable-knit in When Harry Met Sally, a sweater can define a character. Maybe I watch too many rom-coms, but one thing’s for sure—a great sweater is essential. And if you want to level up your wardrobe, a classic cashmere sweater is the way to go.
Cashmere sweaters are the backbone of a solid winter wardrobe. They’re warmer than cotton, more luxurious than wool, and effortlessly stylish. Whether you’re lounging at home or heading out, a cashmere sweater makes you look polished with minimal effort. Think of it less as an indulgence and more as a necessity.
Below are my ten favorite cashmere sweaters, ranging from budget-friendly finds to high-end designer pieces. Whether you’re looking for an affordable staple or a splurge-worthy investment, I’ve got you covered.
Best Affordable Cashmere Sweater: Quince Mongolian Cashmere Crewneck
Price: $60 at OneQuince.com
Pros:
✔ Great price for 100% cashmere
✔ Wide range of colors
✔ Versatile styling—easy to dress up or down
Cons:
✖ Fitted silhouette, so consider sizing up
✖ Some buyers report pilling over time
This ultra-soft Mongolian cashmere crewneck is a total game-changer. It feels premium but costs less than $100—an absolute steal. Whether you’re aiming for effortless elegance or casual comfort, this sweater has you covered.
Best Under $100: Naadam Essential Cashmere Sweater
Price: $98 at Naadam
Pros:
✔ Feels luxurious without the luxury price
✔ Optional custom monogram
✔ Pairs perfectly with a white tee
Cons:
✖ Not the warmest option
✖ Slim fit makes layering tricky
I personally swear by this sweater. It’s soft, stylish, and affordable—a rare trifecta in the cashmere world. If you need a classic crewneck that won’t break the bank, this is the one.
Best Everyday Sweater: J.Crew Cashmere Crewneck
Price: $138 at J.Crew
Pros:
✔ Ultra-comfy
✔ Responsibly sourced cashmere
✔ Lightweight and perfect for layering
Cons:
✖ Some colors are slightly sheer
✖ Fabric is on the thinner side
J.Crew has been perfecting cashmere sweaters for decades, and it shows. This piece is warm yet breathable, luxurious yet reasonably priced. It’s the sweater you’ll reach for again and again.
Best Midweight Option: Todd Snyder Cashmere Crewneck
Price: $348 at Todd Snyder
Pros:
✔ Medium-gauge knit is a perfect balance
✔ Comes in a variety of colors
✔ Ribbed hem makes it easy to tuck
Cons:
✖ Pricey
✖ Slim fit may not suit everyone
For those who prefer a thinner but just-as-warm sweater, Todd Snyder delivers. It’s sleek, simple, and sophisticated—ideal for layering or wearing on its own.
Best Chic Option: Theory Hilles Cashmere Sweater
Price: $345 at Nordstrom
Pros:
✔ Stylish ribbed details
✔ Contemporary, slim fit
✔ Adds a pop of color to winter outfits
Cons:
✖ Runs tight
✖ Dry-clean only
A periwinkle cashmere sweater is the ultimate cool-weather remedy. The ribbed cuffs and hem add sophistication, making every day feel just a little more luxe.
Best Budget-Friendly Basic: Uniqlo Cashmere Sweater
Price: $80 at Uniqlo
Pros:
✔ Affordable yet high quality
✔ Designed to resist pilling
✔ Breathable fabric
Cons:
✖ Hand-wash only
✖ Runs long
Uniqlo consistently delivers top-notch basics, and their cashmere sweater is no exception. With its relaxed fit and durable fabric, it’s a staple you’ll want in every color.
Best Cable-Knit Cashmere Sweater: Polo Ralph Lauren Iconic Cable-Knit
Price: $498 at Ralph Lauren
Pros:
✔ Timeless preppy style
✔ Luxurious feel
Cons:
✖ Lacks the signature Pony logo
This sweater embodies the classic, cozy aesthetic. Whether you’re heading to a Sunday brunch or a business meeting, it’s an effortlessly stylish choice.
Best Luxury Cashmere Sweater: Brunello Cucinelli Ribbed Sweater
Price: $3,550 at MR PORTER
Pros:
✔ Unmatched elegance
✔ Exceptional craftsmanship
✔ A true investment piece
Cons:
✖ Extremely expensive
For those who want to experience the pinnacle of luxury, this sweater is it. If you love timeless elegance and don’t mind the splurge, this is your dream cashmere sweater.
Best Classic Crewneck: Sunspel Sea Island Cashmere Jumper
Price: $325 at Sunspel
Pros:
✔ Perfect for layering
✔ Lightweight and breathable
Cons:
✖ Not 100% cashmere
This Sunspel sweater is understated and effortlessly stylish. The cotton-blend fabric makes it more breathable, making it a great year-round option.
Best Versatile Cashmere Sweater: Banana Republic Cashmere Crewneck
Price: $150 at Banana Republic
Pros:
✔ Easy to dress up or down
✔ Wide color selection
✔ Available in Regular and Tall sizes
Cons:
✖ Hand-wash only
✖ Thick neck ribbing may not be for everyone
If you’re looking for a classic, no-fuss cashmere sweater, Banana Republic has you covered. With endless color choices and a timeless fit, it’s the ultimate wardrobe essential.
What to Consider When Buying a Cashmere Sweater
Before purchasing a cashmere sweater, think about how it fits into your wardrobe. If you love layering, opt for a lightweight option. If you need extra warmth, go for a thicker knit.
Cashmere fineness is measured in microns—14 microns is the softest, while 19 microns is thicker and more durable. Understanding this can help you choose the right balance of softness and durability.