If there’s one wardrobe staple that every fashion lover should have in their wardrobe, it's that of a cashmere jumper. Perfect for those days that aren't quite cold enough to rug up in a puffer coat, but a little chilly to go without an extra layer, let the humble yet luxurious cashmere jumper come to the rescue.
Cashmere is one of the world's most famed and sought-after wool blends as it's not only the warmest, softest and finest woollen fibre, but it’s also one of the more exclusive, due to the harvesting season taking place only once a year in the spring.
As all fashion lovers know, cashmere can also come with a rather hefty price tag, but lucky for you I've rounded up a few of our favourite affordable options which don’t lack warmth, fit, style or softness.
Worth the Splurge:
"Good quality cashmere is 100% worth it and is such a fabulous addition to your wardrobe," leading British luxury cashmere designer Madeleine Thompson tells H! Fashion, "Once you've experience the super soft, luxurious cashmere knit against your skin, it’s hard to go back to wool. It's never itchy, keeps its shape and if washed correctly and taken care of properly, will last a life time. All round, is a much nicer jumper and well worth the investment."
Likewise H! Fashion's Editor Natalie Salmon explains, "A cashmere jumper can be worth the investment if you value softness, warmth, and luxury. Cashmere is renowned for its incredibly soft feel, and the fibres create a lightweight yet warm knit." While cashmere is more expensive than other materials, it offers a premium experience in terms of comfort and durability (if well cared for). If you prioritise these qualities and are willing to follow proper care instructions, it can be a worthwhile purchase.
© GettyCashmere vs Wool in Warmth and Comfort:
"Cashmere is warmer than wool and that is largely due to the unique structure of the cashmere fibres which are finer and lighter than wool which means they trap more air and heat, insulating the wearer better. The amazing thing is they are softer and lighter but warmer," says Madeline. Indeed cashmere is generally warmer, despite being lighter in weight. Cashmere fibres are finer and yet have higher insulation properties, meaning they trap heat more effectively. This makes cashmere excellent for keeping warm in the cold. However, wool is still be a great option, especially for outdoors where heavier fabrics can be more practical.
What Makes It So Luxuriously Priced:
"The cashmere yarn comes from a specific goat which is only bred in northern, high-altitude regions," explains Madeline, "The highest grade cashmere is limited in supply, and involves complex processes from start to finish, by skilled craftsmanship."
1/8
Mia Cashmere V-Neck Jumper
Reiss
The Details
- Composition: 100% Cashmere
You can always rely on Reiss to produce quality garments at an affordable price. I love this v-neck jumper in this creamy neutral tone. This is the perfect layering piece or equally as effective worn alone.
2/8
Pure Cashmere Textured Crew Neck Jumper
Marks & Spencer
The Details
- Composition: 100% Cashmere
A pop of colour never hurt anyone and this lush pastel crew neck is an ideal layering piece both for your current wardrobe and the one you dream about. Throw it over a button-down shirt for a smart, casual look, or layer over a dress for a laid-back chic ensemble.
3/8
Pure Cashmere Jumper
COS
The Details
- Composition: 100% Cashmere
You can always rely on high street giant COS for capsule, affordable knitwear. Opt for a slate grey to easily slot into your existing wardrobe. We love this style with thick ribbed cuff sleeves and hem as it looks amazing on its own with a pair of black trousers or over a silky slip dress with a heel for a more formal occasion.
4/8
Plain Knit 100% Cashmere Sweater
Zara
The Details
- Composition: 100% Cashmere
High street favourite Zara is our first stop when it comes to adding new knitwear into our winter wardrobes for a purse friendly price. Green is set to be huge this season, so this piece is going straight in our basket.
5/8
Cashmere Crew Neck Jumper
Uniqlo
The Details
- Composition: 100% Cashmere
A basic black jumper is an essential in any capsule wardrobe. Uniqlo is our go-to for wardrobe basics and this crew neck jumper ticks every box.
6/8
Knit 100% Cashmere V-Neck Sweater
Massimo Dutti
The Details
- Composition: 100% Cashmere
If you’re looking for a light layer to style underneath a shacket or over a shirt as the weather gets warmer then I guarantee you that this lilac number will go with almost everything in your wardrobe.
7/8
Cashmere Boyfriend Sweater
Reformation
The Details
- Composition: 95% Recycled Cashmere, 5% Cashmere
Reformation is one of the most cultivated ‘it’ girl brands out there for a reason - because every garment they produce is just as dreamy as the previous. This oversized and relaxed silhouette in this bold red hue is the ultimate cool girl styling essential.
8/8
Cashmere Crew Neck Jumper
The White Company
The Details
- Composition: 100% Cashmere
If in doubt, opt for a quality brown cashmere crew neck. Easily styled up and down, for date dinners and city centre errand running, it will quickly become your most reached for piece.
How we chose the pieces:
- Price: Each item in this list is deemed an affordable cashmere option, however, the brand and composition of each item may affect the price tag. We've curated our cashmere jumper edit with style and affordability in mind.
- Style: When combing through the internet's top fashion sites for the best boho chic pieces, we made sure that each of our picks were chic and flattering whilst being 100% cashmere at an affordable price.
Why you should trust me:
I am H! Fashion's Style Writer, with seven years of experience within the fashion journalism industry. I have a love for fashion and spotting upcoming trends, coveted pieces and scouring online for irresistible new-in finds. Finding luxe-looking pieces on the high street is my forte and I love finding those hidden gems that look so much more expensive than they are.
HELLO!'s selection is editorial and independently chosen – we only feature items our editors love and approve of. HELLO! may collect a share of sales or other compensation from the links on this page. To find out more visit our FAQ page.
