How To Buy A Cashmere Sweater

 

Winter... I understand that braving the West Coast elements while looking chic is no easy task, but there is a quick fix that will keep you still looking fabulous. It's time to break out those warm, cozy, soft sweaters (especially cashmere sweaters), and this winter, I am seeing more and more of the super lush sweaters hitting the shop shelves. I know, the luxe knit can be a bit of investment, but cashmere can be worth the cost considering how chic and refined it looks, plus even the finest of weaves will keep you nice and toasty through winter.

Here are some great tips on how to buy a cashmere sweater...

Know your fibers. The best fibers are found in goats wool. The length, cross section and colour of the individual fibers will determine the quality of raw cashmere. Longer, finer fibers are softer and will resist pilling. Also, the whitest fibers provide a more beautiful appearance.

 

photo from bernstein & gold facebook page

 

Read the label; the most expensive options should be 100% cashmere. A cheaper blend should have at least 10% cashmere. You should also make note on how well the label is attached to the garment; sometimes that reflects the care taken with the garment. If the knit is made in Scotland or Italy, that's a good sign!

 

image found on google search

 

Is it hand knitted? A $500 sweater will be knit entirely by hand (you will notice that the cuffs are identical inside and out). Cheaper versions are lock stitched; that is, panels are sewn together by a machine.

 

Ply is the number of strands twisted together to achieve thickness. The higher the ply, the more substantial the feel. Gauge is how tightly those strands are twisted. Cashmere can work for all seasons, depending on ply and gauge.

 

When buying an investment sweater, make sure to keep figure issues in mind. V-neck and crewneck sweaters are universally flattering. Turtleneck sweaters can elongate the torso if you have a short waist. Boatneck sweaters help balance you out if you have larger hips. Neutrals like grey or beige have the longest style longevity.

 

noa noa velvet cashmere sweater