Mom Fashion

Cashmere 101: The Everymom’s Ultimate Guide to Cashmere and Cashmere Alternatives

written by JESSICA WELSH

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best cashmere and cashmere alternatives"
best cashmere and cashmere alternatives
Graphics by: Anna Wissler
Graphics by: Anna Wissler

Growing up, I always thought that a cashmere sweater was the ultimate symbol of being a successful woman. My mom had one or two, and not only did my sister and I swoon over the incredibly soft material, she was always so careful with them that I knew they must be something special. Now, of course, I know that in the grand scheme of things a cashmere sweater is just another piece of clothing—but I can still appreciate the luxury of the softness and warmth.

Winter and holiday gifting season is upon us, so there’s no time like the present to dive into the best cashmere, cashmere blends, and cashmere alternatives that you can find online right now. From classics like Everlane and J.Crew to rising direct-to-consumer brands like Quince (and even a new cashmere alternative line from Gap) it seems like there’s cashmere and cashmere-adjacent pieces everywhere you look. That can be overwhelming, so we’re breaking down what cashmere even is—plus, sharing some of our favorite picks.

 

What is Cashmere?

Known for being incredibly soft, cashmere is a type of wool that comes from a cashmere goat. Cashmere is fine, silky, and lightweight, but also very warm. It’s sometimes blended with other types of material, such as merino wool or cotton, to add some weight and structure. It’s one of the pricier textiles available, because of  the production and manufacturing process. Most cashmere can be washed at home by hand or on a delicate cycle.

Many brands offer a variety of 100% cashmere at different price points, recycled cashmere, cashmere blends, and cashmere-like alternatives. Cashmere is great for winter months because of how warm it is—without the bulk of a heavier material. It’s also incredibly long-lasting, so these are pieces you’ll have for years to come.

 

Cashmere Under $100

Cashmere doesn’t have to cost the same as a designer bag. There are now plenty affordable options, especially with the rise of direct-to-consumer brands. Keep scrolling for a few of our favorite budget-friendly picks, including one that’s just $50.

cashmere sweater
Quince
Mongolian Cashmere Crewneck Sweater

At just $50 and with tons of five-star reviews, this sweater is a true steal.

10+ colors available
sizes XS-XL

Shop now
cashmere sweater
Quince
Mongolian Cashmere Duster Cardigan Sweater

5 colors available
sizes XS-XL

Shop now
cashmere sweater
Quince
Mongolian Cashmere Batwing Sweater

5 colors available
sizes XS-XL

Shop now
cashmere
J.Crew
Relaxed Cashmere T-shirt

9 colors available
sizes XXS-3X

Shop now
cashmere sweater
Nordstrom
Cashmere Crewneck Sweater

10+ colors/patterns available
sizes XXS-XXL

Shop now
cashmere sweater
Nordstrom
Cashmere Turtleneck Sweater

10+ colors available
sizes XXS-XXL

Shop now

 

Cashmere Over $100

Whether you’re looking for a personal treat-yourself item or something special to add to your holiday wishlist, these investment picks are ones that you can pass down to the next generation.

Quince
Mongolian Cashmere Oversized Boyfriend Cardigan Sweater

5 colors available
sizes XS-XL

Shop now
Quince
Mongolian Cashmere Fisherman Pullover Hoodie

5 colors available
sizes XS-XL

Shop now
J.Crew
Cashmere Crop Turtleneck Sweater

6 colors available
sizes XXS-3X

Shop now
J.Crew
Cashmere Classic-Fit Crewneck Sweater

10+ colors/patterns available
sizes XXS-3X

Shop now
Nordstrom | VINCE
Weekend V-Neck Cashmere Sweater

4 colors available
sizes XXS-XL

Shop now
Jenni Kayne
Cashmere Cocoon Cardigan

We know this one is an investment, but it's a cult-favorite that you'll have for years to come.

10+ colors available
sizes XXS-3X

Shop now

 

Cashmere Blends & Recycled Cashmere

For a little bit more weight to your sweater, opt for a cashmere blend that still feels just as luxe. Or if you’re looking for an eco-friendly option, check out Everlane’s ReCashmere line, made from recycled materials and with reduced carbon emissions.

Summersalt
Cashmere Blend Mix Stitch Sweater

4 colors available
sizes XS-2X

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Summersalt
Cashmere Blend Button Crewneck

2 colors available
sizes XS-2X

Shop now
Summersalt
Cashmere Blend Sweater Pant

2 colors available
sizes XS-2X

Shop now
Summersalt
Cashmere Blend Bishop-Sleeve Sweater

2 colors available
sizes XS-2X

Shop now
J.Crew
Ribbed Cotton-Cashmere Relaxed Turtleneck Sweater

5 colors available
sizes XXS-3X

Shop now
EVERLANE
ReCashmere Vest

4 colors available
sizes XXS-XL

Shop now
EVERLANE
ReCashmere Oversized Turtleneck

5 colors available
sizes XXS-XL

Shop now
EVERLANE
ReCashmere Boxy Crew

10 colors available
sizes XXS-XL

Shop now
EVERLANE
ReCashmere Polo

4 colors available
sizes XXS-XL

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EVERLANE
ReCashmere Ribbed Turtleneck

5 colors available
sizes XXS-XL

Shop now

 

Affordable Cashmere Alternatives

Gap’s new CashSoft line truly stopped me in my tracks. Not only are all these silhouettes insanely chic, but each piece is under $100—and often on sale. Made from an ultra-soft cotton blend, reviewers say this line lives up to its name.

GAP
CashSoft Sweater Hoodie

5 colors available
sizes XXS-XXL

Shop now
GAP
CashSoft Straight Sweater Pants

5 colors available
sizes XXS-XXL

Shop now
GAP
CashSoftBoyfriend Cardigan

5 colors available
sizes XXS-XXL

Shop now
GAP
CashSoft Puff Sleeve Cardigan

5 colors available
sizes XXS-XXL

Shop now
GAP
CashSoft Rib Mini Sweater Dress

2 colors available
sizes XXS-XXL

Shop now

 

Cashmere Accessories

Why stop at cashmere sweaters? Stay warmer than ever this winter with cashmere beanies, scarves, gloves, and socks (trust us, your feet will thank you). 

Quince
Cashmere Scarf

6 colors available

Shop now
Jenni Kayne
Cashmere Beanie

6 colors available

Shop now
Quince
Cashmere Gloves

6 colors available

Shop now
Jenni Kayne
Cashmere Socks

3 colors available

Shop now
J.Crew
Cashmere Touch-Screen Gloves

4 colors available

Shop now
J.Crew
Cashmere Beanie

8 colors available

Shop now
J.Crew
Ribbed Cashmere Scarf

5 colors available

Shop now
J.Crew
Cashmere Trouser Socks

7 colors available

Shop now
The Everymom’s Budget-Friendly Winter Capsule Wardrobe
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