Forget the itchy, uncomfortable sweaters of your childhood — cashmere is a total game changer for adults during the colder months. In fact, our transitional fall wardrobe would probably consist entirely of cashmere if it weren’t for one thing: the triple-digit price tag.
Fortunately, if you know where to look, it’s easy to find this popular fabric for a great price. Not only is cashmere a great option for staying cozy but it’s also gentle on sensitive skin. And if you’re in need of a last-minute gift, cashmere makes a timeless choice to surprise anyone (wink, wink).
After spending a pretty penny on your new cashmere pieces, it’s also important to learn how to care for them properly. Luckily, Shop TODAY consulted with multiple stylists to get their best tips on caring for this soft textile along with ways to extend its longevity. Spoiler alert: their insider advice actually works!
Below, we selected a few styles under $100, along with other swoon-worthy investment pieces our editors have personally tried and now love.
Keep reading to learn more about these expert care and styling tips for your new favorite cashmere sweaters.
What is the best grade of cashmere? | How to care for cashmere sweaters | Cashmere sweaters under $100 | Best luxury cashmere | How we chose | Meet the experts
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What is the best grade of cashmere?
Usually, the best way to tell the quality of cashmere is by touch. According to stylist expert Amanda Sanders, "Cashmere comes in grades A, B and C — A being the best and C being the worst. The grades measure the quality of the softness and micron width per cashmere hair."
"Grade A is the finest. Grade B is intermediate, around 18/19 microns per hair. Grade C measures around 30 microns per hair. Ultimately, the way to tell is by the softness of the touch," she adds.
How to care for cashmere sweaters
One of the biggest mistakes you can make with a cashmere sweater is to clean it in a washing machine. "Even the finest cashmere will pill or shed its fiber over time. Pilling occurs where there is friction with the cashmere, such as the arm or the shoulder where you might carry a handbag. Cashmere should only be hand-washed cold or dry clean," says Sanders.
Though cashmere is more delicate than other fibers, you can extend the wear of your garment by using a gentle baby shampoo.
"After hand-washing your cashmere piece, make sure to lay the garment flat so that the fibers do not stretch," adds Sanders. In addition, you can also freshen up the fabric after use in a plastic bag in your freezer.
"For all my cashmere, I get them dry cleaned to ensure they’re being cleaned the right way. For storing them I recommend folding them so the hanger doesn’t stretch them out," says stylist and personal shopper Elisabeth Kassab.
If you need to hang your cashmere, Kassab suggests using a felt hanger to prevent creases. "Steaming is okay if it’s on the lowest setting and not too hot. Same with ironing," she adds.
Expert-approved cashmere sweaters
Quince Mongolian Cashmere Oversized Crewneck Sweater
- Elevated basic
- Oversized without being boxy
- Reviews note pilling
Material: 100% Grade-A Mongolian cashmere | Sizes: XS-XL | Colors: 5
NYC stylist Halle Klum highly recommends this pick by saying, "Let’s go back to the basics — the perfect black sweater." Whether you'd want to dress it up with a black maxi skirt and trench coat or dress down with your favorite pair of jeans and a leather jacket, Klum says the possibilities are truly endless.
Madewell Cashmere Button-Front Cardigan Sweater
- Rich colors
- Soft, stretchable material
- Reviews note slim fit
Material: 100% cashmere | Sizes: XXS-XXL | Colors: 5
"Cardigans are one of the most versatile pieces in anyone’s wardrobe as they were made for layering," states Klum. "I love this cardigan from Madewell as the mint green feels refreshing and unexpected, making it an ideal choice to brighten up those gray winter days." And better yet, this pick also happens to be on sale!
Wilfred Isabelle Wool Cashmere Sweater
- Comfortably oversized
- Thick finish without the bulk
- Reviews note it runs long
Material: 70% wool, 30% cashmere | Sizes: XXS-XL | Colors: 7
Continuing on the train of endless styling opportunities, Klum is a huge fan of winter whites and adores this cashmere, wool blend thick sweater from Aritzia. "Add a cozy plaid scarf and a knit beanie, and you’re ready for brunch with friends or a stroll through the holiday markets."
Bloomingdale’s Mock Neck Cable Cashmere Sweater
- Premium thickness
- Warm weight
- Reviews note sleeves run long
Material: 100% cashmere | Sizes: XS-XXL | Colors: 3
Stylist Catherine Bibeau says cashmere is timeless and who are we to disagree? "This mock neck cable cashmere sweater is stunning in the color ‘Cloud’! Paired with a classic pair of Levi’s to give it a trendy, comfy look. The drop shoulders bring a careless vibe perfect for those cozy weekends," said Bibeau.
Nordstrom Crewneck Cashmere Sweater
- True to size
- Saturated and rich colors
- Reviews note some itchiness
Material: 100% cashmere | Sizes: XXS-XXL | Colors: 18
Another versatile pick that Bibeau recommends is this elevated basic from Nordstrom. "The fitted look creates an elegant, sophisticated style, allowing you to be able to dress it up or down for any occasion."
Cashmere sweaters for women under $100
Charter Club 100% Cashmere Women's Long-Sleeve Crewneck Sweater
- Variety of colors
- True to size
- Semi-sheer material
Material: 100% cashmere| Sizes: XS-XXL (petite available) | Colors: 21
For 60% off right now and available in 21 colors, adding this sweater to your cart is almost a no-brainer. With over 3,800 reviews, we think it's safe to say that customers can't get enough of this pick.
Quince Mongolian Cashmere Crewneck Sweater
- Unbeatable price
- Feels super soft
- Size up for a looser fit
Material: 100% Grade-A Mongolian cashmere | Sizes: XS-XL | Colors: 14
This super soft crewneck sweater made out of Grade A 100% Mongolian cashmere is everything you need for cooler weather. It recently won an award from our 2024 Gifts We Love as well! It comes in 14 different colors.
Naadam The Original Cashmere Sweater
- Feels buttery soft
- Multiple colors
- Sizing up is recommended
Material: 100% Mongolian cashmere| Sizes: XXS-XXL | Colors: 34
Naadam prides itself on sustainable cashmere. According to their site, the company pays Mongolian goat farmers 50% more than the industry standard and even invests in vaccination programs for their flocks. Naadam's bestselling sweater, which is unisex and available in crew neck and V-neck, comes in 20+ different colors.
Uniqlo Cashmere Crew Neck Long-Sleeve Sweater
- Comes in multiple colors
- Feels a bit itchy
Material: 100% cashmere | Sizes: XXS-XXL | Colors: 21
When you need to zhuzh up your work wardrobe, go for this classic fit from Uniqlo. The design comes in different hues and is a must-have sweater to keep you warm. While it's a bit roomy, this one offers a relaxed fit for a great layering system.
Brooks Brothers Silk-Cashmere Shawl-Collar Sweater
- Feels soft and lightweight
- It can pill easily
Material: 70% silk, 30% cashmere | Sizes: XXS-XL | Colors: 6
The combination of silk and cashmere will add a chic vibe to your ensemble. This is a great option if you need to upgrade your return-to-office wardrobe. The shawl-collar design also adds instant femininity to any look.
Best luxury cashmere brands
L.L. Bean Classic Cashmere Crew Neck
- Made from 100% Mongolian cashmere
- Preferably dry clean
Material: 100% Inner Mongolian two-ply cashmere | Sizes: XS-XL (petite, tall, plus available) | Colors: 12
This crew neck sweater, which comes in a dozen colors including a sable heather, boasts an impressive average rating from almost 2,000 reviews. It’s made of 100% cashmere from goats in inner Mongolia where, supposedly, the best cashmere comes from.
J. Crew Cashmere Shrunken Turtleneck Sweater
- Size inclusive
- Cropped length
Material: 100% cashmere | Sizes: XXXS-3X| Colors: 4
With the right amount of texture and warmth, this sweater will leverage your basic pieces. It feels luxurious and pairs well with high-waisted pants for a classy work attire. It also comes in different bold colors and doesn't itch, unlike other heavier-knitted cashmere tops.
Artless Forever Cashmere Crew
- Ethically made
- Versatile styling
- Limited sizes
Material: 30% cashmere, 70% wool | Sizes: XS-L | Colors: 2
Production coordinator Camryn Privette is a recent stan of Artless Forever's cashmere line. While she isn't a huge fan of wool, she says this blend isn't itchy and feels just as soft as other cashmere pieces in her wardrobe. She even has the matching pants to this crew and receives a minimum of five compliments per wear.
Lilysilk Cashmere Sweater With Rose of Side Buttons
- Neckline is adjustable
- Feels super soft
- Limited sizes and colors
Material: 100% cashmere | Sizes: S-L | Colors: 1
This cashmere sweater is worth the investment thanks to its soft and luxurious construction. First, you can adjust the turtleneck with its snappable buttons plus you can also wear it as a jacket. While it requires extra care compared to other designs, this sweater will add a sophisticated aesthetic to your basic pieces.
I (Jannely) own this sweater and is my new favorite acquisition. The texture is so soft and feels exclusive. Honestly, it's a true piece of art.
How we chose
Shop TODAY’s recommendations for the best cashmere pieces came from the advice and guidance of stylists and fashion professionals, as well as the opinions of team editors. While considering materials, quality and value, we selected the best cashmere sweaters for your style and preferences, keeping in mind editors’ recommendations.
Meet the experts
- Amanda Sanders is a fashion consultant and lifestyle concierge who has worked with many celebrities. Also, she works as a personal shopper in NYC.
- Elisabeth Kassab is a Michigan and NYC-based stylist and personal shopper specializing in street-style looks and wardrobe capsules.
- Halle Klum is a freelance stylist and photographer based out of New York City. Her experience spans womenswear, menswear, children’s clothing and beauty campaigns.
- Catherine Bibeau is a fashion stylist with over a decade of experience in the industry. She has experience working for Buffalo Jeans, Ferragamo, her own label, Nacre Voyage, and more.