The best cashmere jumpers will add a touch of luxury that will elevate any outfit. From a classic black roll-neck to a colourful cardigan, there's a style to suit all tastes, whatever your budget.
A cashmere jumper is a wise investment and will work hard as part of your winter capsule wardrobe. They may be more expensive than your best wool jumpers, but the feel and look of cashmere is second to none. If you look after your cashmere knitwear it will last for many years and will never go out of date. There are so many ways to wear a cashmere knit too. Comfy enough for off-duty days, yet smart enough to wear to the office (just add tailored trousers), a cashmere knit will make any look feel instantly pulled together. Team an oversized jumper with leggings at weekends and add the luxe-factor to your loungewear, or wear a neat cardigan over a silky evening dress as a chic alternative to a jacket.
"There’s nothing quite like slipping on cashmere," says Antonia Kraskowski, fashion editor and stylist. "The soft fibres feel super luxurious against your skin and that instantly cosy warmth can’t be beaten! When shopping for cashmere, there are so many brands to consider that you can find pieces at every budget if you hunt around!" These are our fashion team's top picks of the best styles to shop now and love forever.
Best cashmere jumpers, as chosen by our fashion experts
Looking to take the plunge and invest in some new cashmere? We’ve done the hard work for you and found the very best cashmere jumpers to invest in this season that will ensure your wardrobe is ready for any event. Whether you're looking for Christmas party outfits or need something extra warm that will work for what to wear skiing, you can't go wrong with these picks.
Whilst testing and choosing the best cashmere jumpers, I looked at everything from the quality and thickness of the yarn to colours and sizes available. While trying on the knitwear I thought about the quality of the complete article and looked at the way in which it was constructed. The feel of the cashmere was very important too, along with the design elements such as buttons/pockets etc. I also researched how sustainable the brand was and the price of the knitwear.
Best cashmere jumpers under £100
While cashmere is universally considered to be one of the world's most luxurious fibres, it is possible to enjoy wearing cashmere knitwear without having to raid your savings. "On the high street, there are some excellent options," says Antonia. "Uniqlo have lowered the cost of their cashmere this season, making it even more affordable and you can’t beat Marks & Spencer’s excellent offerings. My top tip is to head to the men’s section and snap up one of their cashmere crew neck sweaters in a classic shade such as navy or camel. The slightly oversized fit makes them look far more expensive than the price tag!"
A timeless classic, this roll-neck jumper is a quintessential wardrobe staple and comes in ten shades. If you are looking for the best size range, M&S are a great place to start, this jumper comes in sizes 6-24. If you are wondering how to wash a cashmere jumper M&S suggest hand washing this knit to keep it looking smart.
"It's no surprise that John Lewis have a great range of affordable cashmere in their winter collection, as they have a reputation for combining quality and value," says Fashion Director Paula Moore. "This cardigan is a smart investment for the cooler months ahead, their cashmere knitwear makes great gifts too."
Much like their iconic crossbody bag the knitwear at Uniqlo has a reputation for being both practical and stylish. Their 100% cashmere collection is no exception when it comes to affordability and simplicity. This V-neck knit comes in 12 colours in sizes XXS - XXL, with similar menswear styles available in larger sizes.
Best Cashmere Jumpers: Cardigans
There's a reason why fashion insiders love a cashmere cardigan - they are so versatile and can be styled in many ways. The epitome of country chic when worn with a tweed skirt and a silk scarf knotted at the neckline, this is a look that oozes old money. For a more contemporary spin wear a cashmere cardigan unbuttoned over a simple t-shirt and trending barrel leg jeans or belted over a sequin skirt for a glamorous evening look
"For cashmere, my favourite place has to be Reformation," says w&h Digital Fashion Editor Caroline Parr. "I bought a classic black jumper by the brand in a sample sale years ago and it's still my most-worn winter item. Then I added a camel version to my collection last year and it feels like a little bit of everyday luxury. It washes well, and I keep them looking fresh with an occasional debobble with my Philips fabric shaver. Next on my list is a navy cardigan."
RRP £119 | Think pink and give your neutral basics a lift in this candy coloured V-neck cardigan. M&S is definitely one of the best British clothing brands that won't break the bank, so you really can't go wrong with the retailer's cashmere offering. Save even more money on your next M&S purchase with woman&home's latest M&S discount codes.
Made from 100% recycled cashmere this cardigan helps to conserve resources and reduce waste. The recycling process does mean that the fibres become shorter and more fragile, so this cardigan will need to be carefully hand-washed to preserve the quality, but it's an affordable option if you are looking for an environmentally friendly cashmere knit. It also comes in camel and black, in sizes XS-XXL.
Best Cashmere Jumpers: Roll-necks
If you want to look elegant and classy you would be wise to consider adding a chic black roll-neck jumper to your knitwear collection. Worn with slim-leg cigarette pants and kitten heels, it's a look with a Sixties vibe. Alternatively wear a bolder colour with a pair of slimming jeans for a relaxed weekend outfit idea.
If you are going to invest in one cashmere jumper this winter make it this one. The relaxed fit will suit all body types and it is available in sizes XS-XL, regular and petite fit. It's a versatile shape that is roomy enough to wear over a long-sleeved top for additional warmth yet neat enough to work with tailored trousers or a skirt. Available in 4 additional neutral shades and made from 100% traceable and responsibly sourced cashmere.
With its extra deep ribbed cuffs and generous roll-neck this slouchy fit jumper feels super luxurious. It's available in 12 colours and up to a size 3L. woman&home fashion editor Hannah Hughes is a fan of the brand "My favourite cashmere piece is a Chinti & Parker jumper I've had for many years. It's such great quality, hand washes really well - I use Soak Laundry Soap liquid as you don't need to rinse it and it smells delicious.
Made from fully traceable cashmere in sizes XS-XL, with exposed shoulder seams and holes to slip your thumbs through, this jumper has design elements that set it apart from more classic styles. "If you are looking for a neater fitting, lightweight jumper you'll appreciate Jigsaw's signature Cloud Cashmere," says Janie Callaghan, creative director of The Stylist Service. "It feels incredibly soft and is perfect for layering."
Best Cashmere Jumpers: Sustainable
If you are wondering how to shop for sustainable cashmere and are concerned about the environmental impact of your purchases, there are many things you can consider that will help you to make an informed choice. Sustainable cashmere production ensures the welfare of the goats that produce the wool, and it is important to buy from brands that use fully traceable fibres. Look out for brands that have trusted accreditations from non-profit organisations such as the Sustainable Fibre Alliance (SFA) that set standards in sourcing and production.
This chunkier gauge cable jumper feels thicker than most high street cashmere knits and is really great for chilly autumn days. The cashmere used to produce this jumper has been certified by the The Good Cashmere Standard, an independent standard that encompasses all aspects of sustainable production.
Gobi is a 100% Mongolian cashmere brand that use groundbreaking 3D technology to craft their knits enabling them to consume the lowest possible energy and raw materials. The cashmere used can be traced back to the province of Mongolia where it was sourced and they work closely with local herders to ensure best practices in herd breeding and management.
Buying second hand, previously owned cashmere is by far the most sustainable option. All of the knitwear on this site are one-of-a-kind items, but with over 2000 women's products available there is a high chance that they will be selling the style and colour you are looking for. The company re-sell thousands of pieces of cashmere a year and each one is individually inspected and reconditioned to a high standard.
Best cashmere jumpers: patterned
While neutral colours are great for their versatility you may want to add a splash of colour and pattern to your winter wardrobe with one of these bright cashmere knits, guaranteed to add a dose of dopamine to your everyday dressing.
These eye-catching stripes are ideal for layering over a white shirt to give it a fresh new look. According to the site, "the yarn is brushed to make it even softer and give it a fluffier, wispier surface. The longer fibre length reduces the chance of pilling and extends the life of the yarn. We've worked hard to make sure this yarn is low pilling but our Knitwear Comb can be used to restore any natural light pilling."
Give dopamine dressing a go this winter with this multicoloured zig zag jumper that is sure to turn heads. With a slouchy boyfriend shape and relaxed fit, it offers comfort and practicality with a chic edge thanks to the vivid hue. You can always rely on Boden, one of the best knitwear brands, for clever colour combinations.
The leopard print trend is huge news right now, so we couldn't go without showing you how to go wild with your cashmere. This one is machine washable, and will soon become your everyday go-to, so it's worth splashing a bit more cash. Try it with wide leg jeans and your most comfortable trainers.
Best cashmere jumpers: luxury
On the look out for an extra special cashmere knit? Maybe you want to treat yourself to a designer label or invest in the highest quality cashmere yarn to ensure it lasts a lifetime. Cashmere jumpers make perfect gifts, here are the three we have on our wishlist!
British designer Madeleine Thompson founded her ready-to-wear label in 2006 crafting contemporary designs from the highest grade of cashmere yarn, using fully sustainable production techniques. Antonia says "If you are looking for an investment piece, Madeleine Thompson's designs are worth every penny."
Blending a traditional Fair Isle pattern with a modern colour palette this cardigan has a nostalgic vintage feel that will prove timeless. Made from Scottish cashmere fibres, the company have worked in the same historic mill for over 30 years and create exceptional long-lasting knitwear. No wonder Kate Middleton's a fan!
Made in Italy by the famous British luxury designer brand, this cardigan is uses the check pattern that features inside their iconic Burberry trench coats, loved by Princess Beatrice and Queen Camilla. If you want to make a designer statement this is the cardigan for you!
How to care for cashmere
Cashmere is precious and if you want your best cashmere jumpers to look good for years to come you will need to wash and store them carefully to avoid shrinkage, shape loss and being eaten by the dreaded moths! Julia Dee, founder of Total Wardrobe Care has the following tips, advice and essential rules to follow.
- Rest your cashmere: Do not wear the same garment too frequently - allow a few day's rest after wearing.
- Be mindful: Do not wear cashmere with metal necklaces, bracelets or rough belts, go for a silk scarf and pearls.
- Wash carefully: Always check the washing instructions, some cashmere can be machine washed but a cold water hand-wash is safest if you are unsure. The worst things for cashmere knitwear are lots of agitation and harsh detergent. Use mild detergent for both hand and machine wash, without bleach or enzymes. Our Laundry Liquid contains natural Aloe Vera & Rosemary Oil and is ideal for cashmere and other delicate fabrics such as silk.
- Dry carefully: Squeeze gently, do not twist or wring. Twisting the wet cashmere sweater would stretch the shape. Air dry flat after removing excess water, away from direct heat and sunlight.
- De-pill your cashmere: The first thing you are likely to find with wear is the appearance of small pills or bobbles caused by friction. These can be removed with a simple knitwear comb.
- Store your cashmere: Dry your cashmere completely before storing to prevent moths being attracted to the moisture in the cashmere fibres. Use storage bags to preserve the quality and ensure that no moths can come into contact.
- Protect your cashmere: Before storing items for the long term, make sure they are clean. Stains left for a long time can oxidise and are then impossible to remove. Food residues and skin cells attract clothes moths like nobody’s business. Use fragranced sachets scented with essential oils to repel moths.
FAQs
Why is cashmere so expensive?
Cashmere is a natural fibre that comes from the undercoat of cashmere goats. Cashmere jumpers are generally pricier than your average winter knit because of the scarcity of the material and the labour-intensive production processes. The finest cashmere fibres are collected by hand, which is time-consuming and expensive.
Is it worth investing in a cashmere jumper?
Cashmere fibres are exceptionally fine and fluffy, which allows them to trap more air and keep you warm. They feel slightly soapy when you touch them, which feels incredibly soft against the skin. A cashmere jumper is a luxury item, deciding how much to spend on one will depend on your personal budget. A more affordable option would be to buy a cashmere blend, this is where the cashmere fibres are mixed with wool to create a cheaper alternative.
How to style a cashmere jumper?
Cashmere jumpers are definitely an investment piece, but a cashmere jumper can stay in your wardrobe all year round. Unlike many man-made fibres, cashmere has great moisture-wicking properties, making it ideal to wear in the summer months or if you suffer from hot flushes. Neutral tones are ideal for your capsule wardrobe and will work with both smart and casual outfits. "My favourite cashmere jumper style has to be a round neck in a slightly oversized, boxy fit," says fashion editor and stylist Antonia Kraskowski. "I’ll wear it with a classic white t-shirt underneath to add a break between my skin and the coloured knit as it helps brighten your face. It’s an instant outfit elevator too – throw on with your best jeans and a pair of loafers for a pulled together yet casual look."
