There is one material that will forever fall under the category of pure, unequivocal luxury: cashmere.
Cashmere is a fibre that comes from the hair of a specific breed of goat originating in Kashmir, India. Cashmere production is said to have started in the 13th century and has remained a beacon of sartorial splendour ever since.
With its sumptuously soft feel, traditionally neutral colourways and scratchless appeal, cashmere is a highly popular pick for fans of quiet luxury. However, more brands such as Brora, Miu Miu and Bode have begun experimenting with maximalist cashmere, especially via their cardigan silhouettes.
Vibrant hues, floral stitching, fairisle prints and versatile colourways are increasingly cropping up online. Miu Miu’s autumn/winter 2023 collection marked a turning point for cashmere’s career. Apple green, plum, aqua, tangerine and violet cashmere cardigans were funnelled down the runway, sported by actors Mia Goth and Emma Corrin. The collection was an instant hit on social media.
Cashmere cardigan designs have continued to evolve ever since. Gucci's Cruise 2024 collection turned out a handful of glimmering cashmere cardigans featuring the brand’s insignia and crystal embellishments. Likewise, JW Anderson championed colourblock cashmere cardigans lined with exposed ruched silk interiors for its recent autumn/winter 2024 collection. Khaite, Proenza Schouler, The Row, Gabriela Hearst and the ever-expensive but kaleidoscopic brand The Elder Statesmen have all followed suit.
The only downside? The fabric is expensive, with many pieces retailing for hundreds, if not thousands, of pounds. This is something to consider before starting your search. Cotton and wool are more affordable options for those not wanting to break the bank in the name of knitwear.
Style-savvy celebs are well accustomed to sumptuous cashmere designs. Alexa Chung, Nicola Peltz Beckham, Lady Amelia Windsor and Emily Ratajkowski have all flown the flag for cashmere cardis, while taking their prestigious place on the FROW or exercising their off-duty street style capabilities.
Add a preppy cashmere piece to your trans-seasonal wardrobe and treat yourself to a timeless garment to last the years.
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Reformation Clara Cashmere Crew Cardigan
Think pink with Reformation. The brand’s girlish knit in baby pink features a relaxed fit with sweet button-down detailing Pair with a black mini skirt, tights and boots for an authentic Mean Girls look.
Buy now £198.00, Reformation
Brora Cashmere Fair Isle Trim Cardigan
Brora is the kingpin of cashmere. Discover the brand’s delightful array of vibrant knits spanning cashmere to mohair. This apple green number showcases kitsch floral detailing which is perfect for spring. Adorn yourself with some gold jewels and a pair of mid-wash jeans to complete the look.
Buy now £215.00, Brora
Cos Pure Cashmere Cardigan
Cos is a generous source of easy-wear minimalist pieces inspired by the Scandinavian streets. The brand’s pure cashmere cardigan is a failsafe pick. Layer yours over a white baby tee and some black leather trousers for a cool-girl office outfit.
Buy now £155.00, Cos
Bode Chatham Appliquéd Merino Wool Cashmere-Blend Cardigan
The pinnacle of luxury, Bode’s cashmere-blend cardigan is a display of the label’s impeccable craftsmanship. Its charm can be accredited to the fine details, whether you look to the 1940s style, intricately appliquéd creatures or beaded patches.
Buy now £1130.00, Net-A-Porter
Frame Shrunken Cashmere Cardi
Fall in love with the cherry red colour, gentle ribbing, preppy polo collar and slightly cropped silhouette of Frame’s on-trend cardigan. It comprises a cashmere-wool blend for unyielding comfort and style.
Buy now £445.00, Frame
N.Peal Darcie Cashmere Cropped Cardigan
N.Peal’s Darcie cardigan conjures up Euphoria-inspired dress codes. Spun from 100 per cent Mongolian worsted cashmere to create a lightweight feel, the super soft piece is ideal for easy layering. Elegant shell buttons add a touch of elegance, while a chocolate brown hue taps into the ongoing mocha-tone trend.
Buy now £265.00, N.Peal
John Lewis Cashmere Crew Neck Cardigan
A relatively affordable choice, John Lewis’ cashmere crew neck is a balance of price and preppiness. Its khaki hue is easy to style, although the piece is available in a myriad of wearable colourways from sky blue to grey. A finer layer for mild spring days, the cashmere number has got your knit collection covered.
Buy now £76.00, John Lewis
M&S Pure Cashmere Crew Neck Cardigan
Parakeet green is having a moment, and we’re not mad about it. This M&S cardigan will appeal to the colourful dresser. Crafted from cashmere and available in colours spanning bright rose to fresh mint and cappuccino, the lively staple will keep you snug as a bug during the morning commute.
Buy now £89.00, M&S
Gucci Cropped Crystal-Embellished Cashmere Cardigan
Cardigans took on an important role in Gucci's Cruise 2024 collection and this crystal-embellished edition was an especially eye-catching feature. A light grey backdrop is brought to life by the brand’s monogrammed insignia in twinkling gems. Tonal buttons and a cashmere construction add to the luxuriousness of the piece, which will tickle the fancy of luxury consumers.
Buy now £2600.00, Net-A-Porter
Miu Miu Wool and Cashmere Knit Cardigan
Trend alert! Turquoise knits are taking the stand. A new sartorial theme explored by the likes of Versace and Acne Studios, aqua knitwear has arrived just in time for spring. Miu Miu's take on the trend is a stand-out. This cashmere cardigan showcases a slouchy dropped shoulder, an intarsia design and an oversized fit primed for adventurous layering.
Buy now £2400.00, Miu Miu
