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I tried 3 affordable cashmere sweaters, and the winning style is actually machine-washable
You can wear these flattering, budget-friendly classics year-round — here's the one to buy ASAP.
You might not realize it, but cashmere sweaters are a year-round closet staple. No, I'm not talking about the bulky styles you save for the coldest winter days — I'm talking about the lightweight cashmere that's your base in the winter and an added layer in the summer. Cashmere crewnecks are essential in my wardrobe. I wear them mainly with jeans, but you can also toss them on over dresses or pair them with a spring skirt — don't limit your favorite sweaters to just a few months of the year!
However, it's no secret that cashmere can be pricey. I decided to test a few of the market's more-affordable cashmere brands to see how they truly stack up. I compared three crewneck sweaters from Naadam, Quince and State Cashmere — all made of 100% Mongolian cashmere and purchased for under $100. Keep reading to see which brand stands apart from the rest.
Naadam The Original Cashmere Sweater in Pop Pink
First up, I tried Naadam's The Original. This $98 sweater has the widest range of colors and sizes of the three I tested. Naadam suggests sizing up as the sweater runs a bit small, but I found my normal size just right for a fitted look. However, if you prefer to layer your sweaters over tank tops or dresses, or wear them over your shoulders, you won't regret snagging the next size up.
I ordered The Original in Pop Pink and couldn't get over how vivid the color was in person. I love anything pink, so this was right up my alley.
This sweater is a terrific value for under $100 — we won't blame you if you grab it in a few colors.
- Comes in over 30 colors
- Comes in sizes XXS-XXL
- Machine-washable
- Runs small
Quince Mongolian Cashmere Crewneck Sweater in Everglade Green
Next up, I tried Quince's viral $50 cashmere sweater. At such a wallet-friendly price, I can understand some skepticism, but I'm happy to report that it lives up to the hype. Available in sizes XS-XL as well as plus sizes, Quince's popular sweater would traditionally retail for well over $100. But since the brand cuts out the middle man, it can afford to keep prices low.
While this wasn't as soft as the other sweaters I tried, it was still plush and cozy. I plan on wearing it with jeans all spring and tossing it on over my white pieces this summer. You can shop it in over 15 other colors.
If you're looking to build a cashmere collection without going broke, this $50 option is hard to beat.
- Most affordable
- Comes in plus sizes
- True to size
- Not as soft
- Dry-clean or hand-wash only
State Cashmere Essential Crewneck Sweater in Bella Blue
The third and final cashmere sweater I tried was from State Cashmere, and it was the softest of the three. While it wasn't the softest by a mile, in a blind test, it was the clear winner in terms of texture. It does retail for $120, making it the most expensive of the three. But one benefit of this sweater being sold on Amazon is that it occasionally goes on sale — I snagged mine when it was marked down to $98.
If neutrals are your thing, you won't mind that State Cashmere's crewneck only comes in seven neutral shades, including Bella Blue (what I tried), black, camel and white.
If you have a bit more to spend, you won't regret this ultra-soft classic.
- Softest sweater I tried
- Available on Amazon
- True to size
- Fewer sizes, colors
- Most expensive
- Dry-clean or hand-wash only
The winner: Naadam
While I liked each sweater and can see myself wearing them all, Naadam's The Original edged out the competition. Well-priced and super-cozy, this sweater was the most flattering on me. It also has the most extensive size and color range, so pretty much everyone can find one to add to their closet. Plus, it's machine-washable — another big win in my book.
Still, you can't go wrong bringing any of these sweaters home. All are staples you can wear in every season, year after year. In this case, it's true: Some things really never go out of style.