Women's Cashmere Sweaters

Crew neck and V neck cashmere sweaters

A cashmere crew neck is the most versatile knit you can own, over a shirt and on its own. Read the best cashmere jumpers for women.

Cashmere turtlenecks and cardigans

A fine cashmere turtleneck layers under a coat, and a cashmere cardigan works over a dress. Read which cashmere turtleneck to buy and how to choose a cashmere cardigan.

How to choose good cashmere

Look for long Mongolian fibres, a dense knit that springs back when stretched, and two-ply yarn. See cashmere ply explained, what Mongolian cashmere is and the best cashmere brands.

Cashmere sweaters: FAQs

How can you tell good quality cashmere?

Good cashmere feels soft but not fluffy, springs back when stretched and is densely knitted; long fibres and two-ply yarn pill less.

Why is cashmere so expensive?

Cashmere comes from the soft undercoat of cashmere goats, combed by hand, and each goat gives only a small amount a year.

What does ply mean in cashmere?

Ply is the number of yarn strands twisted together. Two-ply cashmere is the standard for a durable sweater; more plies make a heavier knit.

Does cashmere pill?

Yes, all cashmere pills a little at first. Remove bobbles with a cashmere comb; good cashmere pills less as the short fibres wear away.

How do you wash a cashmere sweater?

Hand wash it in cold water with a wool detergent, press out the water in a towel and dry it flat away from heat.

Is a cashmere blend as good as pure cashmere?

A blend with wool and silk is more hard wearing and often cheaper, while pure cashmere is softer and warmer for its weight.

How should you store cashmere?

Fold it, never hang it, and keep it clean in a breathable bag with cedar to keep moths away.