When it comes to Winter essentials, cashmere knits [1] always top my list. But, unlike their wool and cotton counterparts, the price point of the luxe knit doesn't exactly foster the stock-up-on-it attitude that I would most often like. And, coming from a style-lover [2] who considers a few cashmere layers the ultimate cold-weather uniform, I've amassed quite the arsenal of affordable options when it comes to the soft and cosy weave. Ahead, find my favourite brands that are totally killing the affordable cashmere game. From the well-known Uniqlos and Everlanes to the newer cashmere producers like La Ligne and Reformation, here is your ultimate guide to the sweaters you're going to want to live in — now and straight through the warmer months as well!
Bop Basics
Ever since beloved retailer Shopbop launched Bop Basics, they have been serving up some serious style. True to its name, the brand provides the best of the wardrobe essentials — from T-shirts to, yes, cashmere — at a price point that's affordable for the contemporary market but made with more care than many of the pricier brands out there!
Bop Basics Solid Cashmere Turtleneck [3] ($170).
Everlane
Everlane is not only affordable but also a feel-good brand to shop. With specific attention to production and value, they make sure that every piece that they produce is ethically sourced and done so with the utmost transparency to their customer. And, what's more, most of their cashmere offerings retail for under $100, which makes it a great option for your wallet as well as your wardrobe.
Everlane The Cashmere Crew [4] ($100).
Free People
We love Free People for its boho dresses, vegan leather jackets, and colourful bodysuits alike. But the brand is also one of our secret go-to's for affordable cashmere styles. Whether you're looking for a shrunken cashmere cardigan or oversize boyfriend pullover, Free People has a style for you — and in nearly every colour of the rainbow as well.
Free People School Boy Cashmere Cardi [5] ($168).
Aritzia
Aritzia knocks it out of the park with nearly all of their offerings — and at prices our bank accounts can certainly get behind. As it turns out, their cashmere is just as good as the rest. Ringing in at a slightly higher price point than some of their less luxe tanks, dresses, and the like, they still offer most of their cashmere knits for under $200 (and many even under $150!).
The Group by Babaton Luxe Cashmere Classic Crew [6] ($188).
H&M
As far as fast-fashion goes, H&M has a pretty solid luxe offering, especially when it comes to their cashmere. The brand's point of difference truly lies in their near-perfect fitting of a slightly oversize top that effortlessly walks the line between tailored and slouchy without being too much of one or the other.
H&M Fine-Knit Cashmere Sweater [7] ($99).
La Ligne
La Ligne is, perhaps, on the higher end of the spectrum when it comes to affordable cashmere brands on this list, but we couldn't not include it as one of our favourites of the bunch. With many styles ringing in at under $250, it's one of the best values you're going to find for your money. The cashmere is softer than most and lasts longer than many of the more expensive brands — editor tested!
La Ligne AAA V Neck Sweater [8] ($175).
Madewell
Madewell has been a cashmere love of ours for years, but it's only more recently that they have begun offering more trend-forward cuts — offered at the same low price point as their basics. We particularly love those with puff shoulders or balloon sleeve details, giving the affordable cashmere pullover that little extra something that other under-$150 styles do not have.
Madewell Cashmere Puff-Shoulder Sweater [9] ($148).
Naadam
Newcomer Naadam works directly with Mongolian herders to cut out the middleman and cut down on cost. As a result, they're able to offer the softest and among the most pill-resistant cashmere on the market for almost 50 percent lower than most of their competitors. And, what's more, they even offer a softness scale to compare each of their knits to one another!
Naadam The Essential $75 Cashmere Sweater [10] ($75).
& Other Stories
& Other Stories is one of our favourite affordable fashion brands, from tips to toes. Paramount in every cold-weather offering from the company, however, is their arsenal of cashmere. In basic tones and bright colours alike, they have managed to master that slightly-oversize-but-not-messy je ne sais quoi for which we are constantly searching.
& Other Stories Cashmere Turtleneck Sweater [11] ($149).
Reformation
Reformation only launched cashmere last fall, but their sustainable approach to the luxe knit has been a game changer in our closets. Seventy percent of the knit is made of recycled cashmere, which has 80 percent less of an environmental impact as the new alternative.
Reformation Cashmere V-Neck Cardigan [12] ($148).
Uniqlo
Uniqlo is one of the OGs when it comes to affordable cashmere, and they have yet to disappoint, year after year. They consistently stock the basic silhouettes — boyfriend, turtleneck, V-neck, and more — with the seasonal addition of a boxy crop, puff sleeve, or whatever might be trending for the months to come.
Uniqlo Cashmere Crew Neck Sweater [13] ($90).