Tuesday, January 24, 2023

The 15 Best Cashmere Sweaters For Channeling Nancy Meyers’ Movie Energy

Sweater aficionados know that cashmere is the premium cold-weather fabric with its superior warmth and softness. The prized fiber is made from cashmere goats, whose cold home requires their coat to be extra thick and warm to survive. Once turned into thread, however, it can be woven or knitted into varying thicknesses. So no matter how you prefer your cozy — perhaps as a ribbed cardigan, a fitted pullover, or even a light, sleeveless shell — the ways in which you can layer and wear it are limitless. 

The thing about cashmere, however, is that it’s expensive — it's a rare fiber, after all. With the majority of the world’s supply coming from goats specifically living in the Gobi Desert, there’s a relatively long-ish supply-chain process linked to producing sweaters and the like. To that end, the best cashmere sweaters generally veer toward basic or neutral (for versatility’s sake) — and it's only fitting that they're often purchased as investment pieces. (On the flip side, if a style is too-good-to-be-true cheap, the sweater is likely sus or blended with other not-as-soft materials.)

With so many fashion retailers and brands throwing around the “100% cashmere” language around, it’s hard to sort out where to find the sweaters worthy of your hard-earned dollars. So, for this edition of Hype Machine, we scanned countless sites to filter out the highest-rated cashmere layerables, according to serious cozy-seekers like you. (And, while Uniqlo doesn’t partake in customer reviews, we feel the retailer’s collection of cashmere crewnecks still deserves an honorable mention here for its longstanding level of quality and affordability.) Now that we’ve got all that out of the way, click on to see the best cashmere sweater styles the world wide web has to offer.

Welcome to Hype Machine, our hit-list of the top reviewed products across the web — according to a crowd of die-hard shoppers. Call this your 4-star & up only club, with entry granted by our devoted-to-the-goods shop editors.

At Refinery29, we’re here to help you navigate this overwhelming world of stuff. All of our market picks are independently selected and curated by the editorial team. All product details reflect the price and availability at the time of publication. If you buy or click on something we link to on our site, Refinery29 may earn commission.

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Jenni Kayne Cashmere Cocoon Cardigan


The Best Cashmere Cardigan Sweater

The Hype: 4.8 out of 5 stars; 1,621 reviews on JenniKayne.com

Though this cashmere sweater is on the pricier end, this very beloved, very luxurious Jenni Kayne ribbed cardigan is worth every dollar, according to the designer's rabid fanbase. Plus, it has over 1,500 reviews, which says it all.

"The coziest of coziest! There’s a reason why they call this cardigan a cocoon," writes a reviewer. "It literally wraps you in warmth. It’s also extremely versatile — wear it buttoned, unbuttoned, tucked into jeans or pants, you name it and the sweater delivers."

Jenni Kayne Cashmere Cocoon Cardigan, $, available at Jenni Kayne

Quince Mongolian Cashmere Duster Cardigan Sweater


The Best Cashmere Duster Sweater

The Hype: 5 out of 5 stars; 370 reviews on OneQuince.com

If you want your cashmere sweater to look, feel, and fit more like outerwear, this open-front duster is the perfect grab-and-go jacket for fall. And, as with all of Quince's cashmere, this style is made entirely from Grade A Mongolian cashmere.

"I've been looking for a sweater like this for months," shares a reviewer. "The cashmere is thicker than I thought it would be. It's super soft, high quality, and a really neutral style that I'll wear constantly."

Quince Mongolian Cashmere Duster Cardigan Sweater, $, available at Quince

Free People Paloma Cashmere Cardi


The Best Collared Cashmere Cardi

The Hype: 4.4 out of 5 stars; 20 reviews on FreePeople.com

The options are endless with this versatile cardigan. Wear it solo as a top or use it to layer in the colder months.

"I received my sweater today and I immediately put it on. I didn’t find it itchy at all. I love the fit. I purchased a large. I usually wear a medium but wanted the sweater to flow over my tummy. I would love to purchase in other colors."

Free People Paloma Cashmere Cardi, $, available at Free People

J.Crew Cashmere Classic-Fit Crewneck Sweater


The Best Classic Cashmere Crewneck

The Hype: 4 out of 5 stars; 220 reviews on JCrew.com

Is there anything more classic than a perfectly tailored crewneck sweater? J.Crew has updated its previous cashmere crewneck style with a slightly relaxed fit. Did we mention it also comes in 16(!) colors?

"This classic cut cashmere sweater fits much more flattering than the slim fit in previous years. I love my cashmere slightly oversized and this sweater does the trick," explains a reviewer. "With that said, it is true to size. But, if you want to feel extra cozy, size up! I will be buying more colors soon!"

J.Crew Cashmere Classic-Fit Crewneck Sweater, $, available at J.Crew

Naked Cashmere Joslyn Turtleneck Cashmere Sweater


The Best Cashmere Turtleneck Sweater

The Hype: 4.9 out of 5 stars; 117 reviews on NakedCashmere.com

This perfectly slouchy turtleneck styles well with any outfit, and it's so soft and warm that you might never want to take it off! Wear it with a pair of your favorite jeans or trousers — it's timeless piece is a little bit of luxury that will stay with you.

One reviewer raves that this is "the best cashmere turtleneck I have ever owned. I bought 3 colors. The quality is soft and the perfect weight. The oversized fit is comfortable. Looks great with jeans, a skirt, or tights. True to size. Fairly priced for the quality."

Naked Cashmere Joslyn Turtleneck Cashmere Sweater, $, available at Naked Cashmere

Anthropologie Alani Cashmere Mock Neck Sweater


The Best Mock Neck Cashmere Sweater

The Hype: 4.1 out of 5 stars; 171 reviews on Anthropologie.com

Not quite a turtleneck and not quite a crew neck, this cashmere mock-neck sweater is an easy style to throw on for layering. Plus, take a look at all of the vibrant gemstone colors and prints!

"Super snuggly! I love the way this sweater hangs on my body. It's super soft and not too thick of a fabric," writes a reviewer. "I'll most likely layer it with an undershirt during cooler weather. The floral pattern looks vintage and I'm super happy with my purchase!"

Pilcro The Alani Cashmere Mock-Neck Sweater, $, available at Anthropologie

Summersalt The Coziest Cashmere Crew


The Best Two-Tone Cashmere Sweater

The Hype: 4.4 out of 5 stars; 56 reviews on Summersalt.com

For the most part, all solid-colored cashmere sweaters tend to look similar — which is why this Summersalt knit with bold, contrasting hems truly stands out.

"Comfortable, classy and unique. I love this sweater and always look forward to putting it on," shares a reviewer. "It looks great plain or with a necklace even though it has a decorative neckline."

Summersalt The Coziest Cashmere Crew, $, available at Summersalt

Everlane The Cashmere Stroopewafel Turtleneck


The Best Lounge-At-Home Cashmere Sweater

The Hype: 4.27 out of 5 stars; 318 reviews on Everlane.com

Envision a chilly, windy day. You're bundled up next to the fireplace with a book in hand and a warm drink. Everlane's waffle knit sweater encases you in its warm, relaxed-fit sweater. Sounds too good to be true, right? So go ahead and let the daydream come to life.

"The sweater is beautifully soft and great as the nights are getting older," writes a reviewer. "It has great subtle details and I appreciate the extra length in the back."

Everlane The Cashmere Stroopwafel Turtleneck, $, available at Everlane

Gentle Herd Oversized Cashmere Turtleneck Sweater


The Best Long Cashmere Sweater

The Hype: 4.5 out of 5 stars; 763 reviews on Gentleherd.com

Since this tunic-style cashmere sweater covers your hips and butt, it's a great choice for keeping you extra warm.

"What a beautiful thick and cozy sweater! I love how it sits just a bit below your hip so you can pull up or down," exclaims a reviewer. "It's definitely a good buy, and I'll be wearing this sweater a lot this year!"

Gentle Herd Oversized Cashmere Turtleneck Sweater, $, available at Gentle Herd

L.L.Bean Classic Cashmere Crewneck


The Best Everyday Cashmere Sweater

The Hype: 4.4 out of 5 stars; 2,448 reviews on LLBean.com

When the weather dips, treat yourself to a cozy and soft cashmere sweater that you can wear every day of the week. There are 11 neutral and pastel hues to choose from and it also comes in plus, petite, and tall fits.

"I have been purchasing LL Bean's cashmere sweaters for what seems like forever. Presently, I have at least five of them in my closet," writes a reviewer. "I cannot travel without them. They are incredibly lightweight and cozy to wear."

L.L. Bean Classic Cashmere Crewneck, $, available at L.L. Bean

Nadaam Recycled Cashmere Open Neck Polo


The Best Collared Cashmere Sweater

The Hype: 5 out of 5 stars; 34 reviews on Naadam.com

Polo shirts and half-zip sweaters are making a huge comeback — and this sweater satisfies both trends in one. Plus, it comes in six colorways and sizes XXS-3X.

"It's very soft while keeping a structured fit that is flattering," writes a reviewer. "Cashmere quality is superior to high-end stores and very affordable."

Naadam Recycled Cashmere Open Neck Polo, $, available at Naadam

Nap Cashmere Hooded Sweater


The Best Hooded Cashmere Sweater

The Hype: 4.83 out of 5 stars; 359 reviews on Naploungewear.com

Just look at the relaxed fit of this cashmere sweater, perfect for lazy days. The attached hood and softness of the yarn that comes from cashmere goats just scream cozy!

"It’s so soft and comfy! It’s a bit of an oversized fit but that’s what I love so much about it. It’s extremely soft, fits perfectly, and is very comfy," writes a reviewer.

Nap Loungewear Cashmere Hooded Sweater, $, available at Nap Loungewear

Quince Mongolian Cashmere Full-Zip Hoodie


The Best Cashmere Hoodie

The Hype: 4.9 out of 5 stars; 1051 reviews on OneQuince.com

The Full-Zip Hoodie is another Quince item that we can't forget to list. If you live in a baggy hoodie all throughout the cold months and want to continue on your cozy-comfy journey, grab one of these hooded cashmere sweaters — perfect for cocooning your head from the cold air.

"I love this hoodie! It's very comfortable and warm," writes a reviewer. "It's the perfect hoodie to wear when I want to look casual, not like I'm going on a hike! I would definitely recommend it."

Quince Mongolian Cashmere Full-Zip Hoodie, $, available at Quince

Jennie Liu Women's 100% Pure Cashmere Crew Neck Sweater


The Best Cashmere Crewneck On Amazon

The Hype: 4.4 out of 5 stars; 418 reviews on Amazon.com

Amazon can be a hit or miss, but this cashmere sweater is certainly a hit, according to the over 400 reviewers who rated this sweater an overall 4.4 out of 5 stars. If that doesn't pique your immediate interest, then one of its many, colorways surely will.

"I bought three of these cashmere crew neck sweaters and they are the most luxurious treat to wear. It's like wearing a soft, gentle hug all day long," a reviewer raves. "They are of excellent quality and they hold up well to cold water wash (in a garment bag), air drying, and light ironing. I expect them to last many years and to be a staple of my winter wardrobe."

Jennie Liu 100% Pure Cashmere Crew Neck Sweater, $, available at Amazon

Madewell Plus (Re)sponsible Cashmere Relaxed Sweater


The Best Responsibly-Sourced Cashmere Sweater

The Hype: 4.2 out of 5 stars; 10 reviews on Madewell.com

Sustainable, soft, and a staple. This boxy-fit sweater does it all.

"I love this sweater," writes one reviewer. "It fits TTS. I haven’t had it laundered yet, so I can’t speak to that but I have worn it a handful of times. I love the style overall and the weight of the material is light but substantial. I’ve received compliments every time I’ve worn it."

Madewell Plus (Re)sponsible Cashmere Relaxed Sweater, $, available at Madewell

Nap Loungewear Chunky Oversized Crew Sweater


The Best Oversized Cashmere Sweater

The Hype: 4.9 out of 5 stars; 246 reviews on Naploungewear.com

Just look at the super wide, boxy silhouette of this cashmere sweater! If getting swathed by cashmere goodness is your top priority, let this one envelop you in ultimate softness.

"Excellent quality. It's warm, but not overly thick and hot. I love the cashmere sweater," writes a reviewer.

Nap Loungewear Chunky Oversized Crew Sweater, $, available at Nap Loungewear

Mott & Bow Cashmere Oversized V-Neck Willow


The Best V-Neck Cashmere Sweater

Mott & Bow offers a few cashmere sweater styles, but this slightly cropped V-neck sweater just edges out the crew neck for its easy, over-the-head pullover fit and wear.

The Hype: 4.25 out of 5 stars and 21 reviews on mottandbow.com

What Cozy Seekers Are Saying: "Like the cut of this versatile cashmere V-neck. When it first arrived I put it on and didn’t want to take it off cuz it was so soft and comfortable. Not too thin or thick. Wear alone or under a jacket. Like where the V hits on my chest."

Mott & Bow Cashmere Oversized V-Neck Willow, $, available at Mott & Bow

Free People Skye Cashmere Pullover


The Best Sleeveless Cashmere Sweater

If you're down with the sweater vest trend, but want to specifically invest in a lux cashmere style, this top-rated pullover from Free People is worth a look.

The Hype: 4.3 out of 5 stars and 12 reviews on freepeople.com

What Cozy Seekers Are Saying: "A delicious, sophisticated hug! I have come to love cashmere for its lightness and incredible warmth... as I am often chilled. This piece, though sleeveless, is like getting a beautiful hug when I slip it on. The red is vibrant, and the material is perfect for wearing alone or over a blouse/turtleneck. Dressy, classy, and fun! There is ample room and it flows and settles nicely. I ordered an XS and it was billowy and chic! LOVE IT!"

Free People Skye Cashmere Pullover, $, available at Free People

Madewell (Re)sourced Cashmere Ribbed Mockneck Pullover Sweater


The Best Recycled Cashmere Sweater

This comfy ribbed sweater is made from Madewell's Do Well materials, which includes 70% recycled cashmere and 30% recycled wool. So, while this isn't a hundo cashmere, you can still feel fuzzy-good that this sweater's kinder to the environment.

The Hype:
4.8 out of 5 stars and 14 reviews on madewell.com

What Cozy Seekers Are Saying: "I ordered this in a size up to have an oversized/slouchy feel, and it's perfect! I would definitely say it's true to size if you're going for a less slouchy look though. The color is exquisite, like the perfect taupe/oatmeal/cream color mix. I am six months pregnant and feel like this sweater, even with the slight crop, will be something I'll be able to wear throughout my whole pregnancy. Can't wait to pair it with some cute black jeans and a jean jacket!"

Madewell (Re)sourced Cashmere Ribbed Mockneck Pullover Sweater, $, available at Madewell

lululemon Cashlu Sweater Wrap


The Best Machine Washable Cashmere Sweater

While this isn't a 100% cashmere sweater (you knew there had to be a catch with the "machine washable" part), this long cardigan, cashmere-blend knit from lululemon is still soft enough for getting cozy with and warm enough for post-workout layering.

The Hype: 4 out of 5 stars and 86 reviews on lululemon.com

What Cozy Seekers Are Saying: "If you're looking for the perfect Sweater, look no further!!! The Cashlu™️ Sweater Wrap is the perfect addition to your Fall/Winter wardrobe. This cozy wrap sweater is perfect for running to class or just running errands. It's soft, cozy, providing a little warmth but cool enough for those who tend to run more warm. As a pilates instructor, I'm constantly jumping on and off the equipment to demonstrate and this wrap is perfect from throwing on & off quickly. Plus, who the deep pockets are great for carrying my phone & lip gloss. I hope Lulu makes this more colors because this is my new staple!"

Lululemon Cashlu Sweater Wrap, $, available at Lululemon

Everlane The Belgian-Waffle Pocket Pullover


The Best Cashmere With Pockets

Everything's better with pockets and this recycled cashmere style from Everlane is no exception. Bonus points for the waffle-knit texture, blouson sleeves, and slightly cropped relaxed cut.

The Hype: 4.58 out of 5 stars and 50 reviews on everlane.com

What Cozy Seekers Are Saying: "This sweater was a little out of my price range but I'm glad I splurged and got it. This sweater is everything. So soft, such a cute cropped cut, and POCKETS! which make everything cute. Get this sweater. I wear anywhere between an XS and an M in Everlane but got this in a small and it fits perfect."

Everlane The Belgian-Waffle Pocket Pullover, $, available at Everlane

Athleta Aspen Turtleneck Sweater


The Best Cashmere Turtleneck

There may be nothing that'll keep you warmer than a thick cashmere sweater with a chunky turtleneck.

The Hype: 4.6 out of 5 stars and 137 reviews on athleta.com

What Cozy Seekers Are Saying: "Love this sweater. Because of the length, it is flattering, and it is also cozy. Both the brown and the pink were very pretty. I had a hard time deciding which one to get. I ended up choosing the brown."

Athleta Wool Cashmere Aspen Turtleneck Sweater, $, available at Athleta

Wilfred Jara Luxe Cashmere Sweater


The Best Cashmere Turtleneck Sweater

The Hype: 5 out of 5 stars; 49 reviews on Aritzia.com

There may be nothing that'll keep you warmer than a slouchy cashmere sweater with a cozy turtleneck. The timeless piece looks so luxurious that you can simply style it with a pair of your favorite jeans or trousers.

"This should be in everyone’s wardrobe! The cut is perfect and the sweater is so soft," writes a reviewer. "I’m normally an XS but from experience cashmere stretches, so I went with the XXS. The boxy fit is still great for a light tuck into pants or to hang untucked."

Wilfred Jara Luxe Cashmere Sweater, $, available at Aritzia

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