Winter has a way of making me dream about one thing: hunkering down indoors away from the elements. And what’s more synonymous with pure, unadulterated coziness than slipping into a soft, luxurious cashmere sweater while sipping something hot and pretending that the world outside doesn’t exist? The only problem? Cashmere has long been the fabric of dreams and let’s face it, those dreams have a pretty hefty price tag. Cashmere is often associated with luxury, elegance, and, yes, high price tags. It’s the material that whispers sophistication, but many people assume that purchasing it is out of their reach.
This winter, I was determined to add more cashmere to my wardrobe for less without compromising on quality. And the good news is, you don’t have to spend a fortune to enjoy the warmth, softness, and timeless appeal of cashmere. With the right approach, you can shop for cashmere on a budget and still score pieces that will last for years. So before you resign yourself to spending the season wrapped in something that feels more like an old sweatshirt than a cloud, here’s how to go about snagging high-quality cashmere without breaking the bank:
1. Understand the Basics of Cashmere Quality
Not all cashmere is created equal, so knowing what to look for can help you avoid low-quality options that might seem like a deal but don’t hold up over time. Look for:
- The Grade of Cashmere: Cashmere comes in various grades, with “Grade A” being the highest quality. Higher-quality cashmere feels softer and lasts longer, but it’s also more expensive. On a budget, look for mid-tier options that still offer decent softness and durability.
- The Ply: Cashmere yarn can be spun in one, two, or three-ply strands. Two-ply is a great balance for warmth, durability, and comfort without adding too much weight. Single-ply is lighter and often cheaper, but it can be more delicate.
- The Fiber Length: Longer fibers tend to be finer and smoother, resulting in a softer, more luxurious feel. Shorter fibers are more affordable, but they can be prone to pilling over time.
2. Shop Off-Season
One of the easiest ways to score cashmere at a discount is to shop out of season. Retailers often drop prices on winter apparel during the warmer months to make room for new inventory. This means you can find cashmere sweaters, scarves, and other essentials for a fraction of the price when you shop in the off-season.
Try to buy your cashmere pieces during:
- End-of-season sales after the holidays or during clearance periods.
- Spring, summer and early fall for winter-related items.
3. Don’t Discount the Discount Retailers
There are a ton of online stores that specialize in offering high-quality cashmere at budget-friendly prices. I searched for 100% cashmere to incorporate into my wardrobe but there are also plenty of great options for cashmere blends and many brands offer cashmere mixed with merino wool, cotton, or silk.
- Everlane: Known for its affordable cashmere collection, Everlane offers a range of styles and colors without compromising on quality.
- Naadam: This brand focuses on sustainable, ethically-sourced cashmere, and often offers sales where you can snag pieces at much lower prices.
Keep an eye on sites like Rue La La and The Outnet for flash sales and discounts on luxury cashmere brands.
4. Check Resale Stores and Vintage Shops
You might be surprised by the hidden gems you can find in thrift stores or vintage boutiques. Many high-end brands donate or sell off their old stock, and these can include cashmere pieces that are still in excellent condition. Be sure to inspect the fabric carefully to check for any signs of wear, pilling, or damage, but if you find a well-made piece, it’s often a steal compared to buying new.
You’ll not only find secondhand cashmere at much lower prices than new retail, you’re contributing to a more sustainable fashion cycle.
5. Look for Fabric Care Kits and Discounts
Taking care of your cashmere is crucial to making it last. Pilling is one of the biggest issues people face with cashmere, and it can be easily minimized with proper care. Many budget-friendly retailers also offer affordable fabric care kits, which include combs or shavers designed to remove pills and keep your cashmere looking fresh.
Some brands also offer lifetime repairs or mending services, so keep that in mind when buying cashmere an initial investment might save you more money in the long run if you take care of it properly.
Wearever Jade Went 