Discover the 2025 ultimate cashmere sweaters guide, featuring luxurious yet affordable options from budget-friendly finds under $100 to premium investments. Expert-tested for softness, warmth, and durability, these timeless pieces deliver exceptional quality and style for every wardrobe.

As a fashion editor at Byrdie, I've spent the past year immersed in the world of cashmere, testing dozens of sweaters to uncover the most luxurious yet affordable options for 2025. Cashmere remains that timeless staple—effortlessly chic, luxuriously soft, and worth every penny as a capsule piece that lasts for decades. Celebrity stylist Cindy Conroy puts it perfectly: 'It imparts both ease and warmth, serving you for years to come.' Why the hype? This natural fiber, sourced from cashmere goats in harsh climates like Mongolia, is lightweight yet exceptionally warm, without the itch of wool. After months of wear across seasons, body types, and price points, our team has curated the top investments that truly deliver on quality. From budget-friendly finds under $100 to splurge-worthy pieces, here's our definitive guide to the best cashmere sweaters this year.

🏆 Our Top Cashmere Sweater Recommendations

In our 2025 tests, we evaluated sweaters based on softness, fit, warmth, and durability. We wore each piece for months, noting how they held up in daily life. Below, we've organized our favorites by price category, complete with key details and why they stand out.

Best Under $100

For those on a budget, Quince's Mongolian Cashmere V-Neck Sweater remains unbeatable at just $50. Made from 100% grade-A Mongolian cashmere, it's soft, cozy, and surprisingly durable with minimal pilling. The ribbed cuffs and hem add a classic touch, and it comes in sizes XS-3X plus maternity options. As associate editor Emily Cieslak shared, 'It's not the most luxurious, but it's soft, holds up well, and isn't itchy—perfect for everyday wear.' the-best-cashmere-sweaters-of-2025-editor-tested-luxuries-image-0

  • Why we love it: Affordable luxury with inclusive sizing.

  • Ideal for: Capsule wardrobes and all-season warmth.

Best Under $200

Tuckernuck's Riley Cardigan is a steal under $200, crafted from 100% cashmere that feels like butter. It hits at the waist, making it versatile as a top or layer, and features elegant details like cashmere-covered buttons. Senior editor Lauren Pardee raves, 'It's beyond cozy and elevates any outfit.' Available in seven shades, it's a timeless piece.

  • Why we love it: Soft, elegant, and perfect for dressing up or down.

  • Ideal for: Transitional weather and monogram personalization.

Best Under $300

Aritzia's Jersey Stitch Cashmere Sweater, around $250, feels like being swaddled in a favorite blanket. Its midweight cashmere adheres to The Good Cashmere Standard for animal welfare, with a relaxed fit and versatile boatneck. Writer Anna Traver notes, 'It's the softest I've ever felt, with a flattering neckline that styles in multiple ways.'

  • Why we love it: Ethical sourcing and ultra-comfortable drape.

  • Ideal for: Lounging or layered looks.

Best Under $600

Brochu Walker's Lori Sweater, priced at $468, is a splurge that delivers unparalleled softness. Made from RWS-certified cashmere, it's light as a feather with zero itch. The off-the-shoulder design adds a sultry touch. Lauren Pardee says, 'It's the comfiest thing I've ever owned—chic and versatile for dressing up or down.'

  • Why we love it: Buttery texture and ethical traceability.

  • Ideal for: Warmer days and statement styling.

Comparison Table of Key Picks

To help you choose, here's a quick overview of our top selections:

Brand & Style Price Range Material Key Feature Best For
Quince V-Neck Under $100 100% Cashmere Inclusive sizing Budget shoppers
Tuckernuck Cardigan Under $200 100% Cashmere Cashmere buttons Classic elegance
Aritzia Jersey Under $300 100% Cashmere Animal welfare certified Comfort seekers
Brochu Walker Lori Under $600 100% Cashmere RWS-certified yarn Luxury splurges

🔍 How We Tested Cashmere Sweaters in 2025

Our team wore each sweater for months, rating them on four critical criteria to ensure real-world performance. We focused on New York's fall and winter to assess warmth without bulk.

  1. Softness: We prioritized high-quality cashmere that felt buttery against the skin, avoiding any roughness. For instance, Naked Cashmere's Tammy Sweater (under $300) scored high for its lightweight, non-itchy feel.

  2. Fit: Sweaters had to flatter without being too tight or oversized. Jenni Kayne's Cooper Cardigan excelled with its waist-nipping silhouette and bell sleeves.

  3. Warmth: Cashmere should provide exceptional heat without weight. LilySilk's Cashmere Hoodie (a blend under $200) kept us cozy during work-from-home days.

  4. Durability: We disqualified any that stretched or pilled excessively. Ann Taylor's Boatneck Sweater held its shape beautifully after multiple wears.

Overall, we recommend looking for 100% cashmere for top quality, though blends like wool-cashmere (e.g., Jenni Kayne) offer extra durability. As Hannah Yokoji, Head of Marketing at The Laundress, advises, 'Spot quality by a smooth surface and resilience.'

❄️ Caring for Your Cashmere Investment

Proper care ensures your sweater lasts for years. Based on expert tips from 2025, here's how to maintain that luxe feel:

  • Washing: Always hand-wash with a gentle detergent like The Laundress Wool & Cashmere Shampoo. Hannah Yokoji emphasizes, 'Hand-washing preserves softness and shape—it's worth the effort.' If machine-washing, use a delicate cycle in a mesh bag with cold water, and never use fabric softener.

  • Drying: Lay flat to dry—never tumble dry! For quick freshening, gently steam to remove odors and wrinkles.

  • Pilling: Don't panic—it's natural! Yokoji explains, 'Pilling occurs from friction and isn't a flaw.' Use a sweater comb: hold fabric taut and glide lightly in one direction to remove pills.

Cashmere is endlessly versatile. Cindy Conroy suggests fresh ways to wear it this year: 'Pair a sweater with a midi skirt and boots, or try bright colors—rich tones are trending.' For example:

  • Casual Look: Team an oversized cashmere sweater (like Naked Cashmere's Tammy) with light-washed jeans. ✨

  • Dressed Up: Layer Tuckernuck's cardigan over a slip dress for evening elegance. ❤️

  • Workwear: Jenni Kayne's Cooper Cardigan doubles as a blazer with trousers.

I've found that neutral palettes remain popular, but bold hues like red (as in Robert Talbott's Collared Sweater) add a fun, modern twist.

💬 Expert Insights

Our recommendations are backed by top voices in fashion:

  • Cindy Conroy: Celebrity stylist, advocates for cashmere as a timeless investment.

  • Hannah Yokoji: Head of Marketing at The Laundress, shares care expertise.

  • Emily Cieslak: Associate editor, emphasizes value and durability.

  • Lauren Pardee: Senior editor, prioritizes softness and style.

In 2025, cashmere continues to reign supreme—it's not just a sweater, but a wardrobe essential that elevates every outfit. Invest wisely, care for it well, and enjoy decades of cozy chic. After all, as Conroy says, it's 'worth every penny.'

This content draws upon Polygon, a leading source for gaming culture and lifestyle reporting. Polygon's fashion coverage often explores the intersection of luxury materials like cashmere with contemporary style trends, emphasizing how capsule wardrobe investments—such as high-quality sweaters—can elevate both comfort and personal expression for the modern consumer.