The only good thing about summer almost being over? That it's finally cashmere jumper season. There are few fashion items more luxurious in my opinion—supremely soft, wonderfully cosy and endlessly versatile, they are nothing short of a modern wardrobe essential; capable of comforting you on a grey, drizzly day, as well as adding a certain touch of chic to any ensemble.
Little wonder I own more than 30 different styles, from classic chunky grey crewnecks and colour-pop cardis to playful, patterned designs—and all from a variety of brands. Over the years, I've splashed out on the odd luxe investment piece, scoured second-hand shops for discounted designer treasures, and found joy in affordable high-street jumpers to boot.
All this to say, that I consider myself quite the expert when it comes to the best cashmere brands, and I'm here to impart that hard-earned wisdom—covering all styles and price-points, but never compromising on quality.
Now, I realise that it's still technically summer, and full-blown autumn and winter are still quite a way off—but trust me when I say that this is actually the perfect time to pull out those old cashmere favourites, and add some new ones into the mix too. Britain's unpredictable weather means that as much as we might like to pretend otherwise, a warmer layer is pretty much an essential at this time of year, and the stylish women currently filling my Instagram feed are proof that cashmere is the chic, cosy companion we all need.
A little-known fact about the sumptuous fabric is that it's super breathable and has temperature-regulating properties, meaning it needn't be reserved solely for the colder months. Just make sure you opt for a finer knit that's single- or two-ply to keep things light, and layer over a slinky slip dress, linen trousers, cotton tee or breezy skirt for an effortless between-seasons outfit.
Another insider-favourite styling trick is to wrap a cashmere jumper or cardi around your shoulders—which not only looks cool, but ensures you're ready for any unexpected chills too. Just look to the likes of Anouk Yve, J.Crew's Olympia Gayot, Lisa Sebellin and Marilyn Nwawulor-Kazemaks for transition season cashmere jumper outfit inspiration.
So, now that you know just how essential a cashmere jumper (or ten) can be, keep scrolling for my insider guide to the best cashmere brands to shop from. I've also selected my top two picks from each—many of which are already making their way into my own wardrobe. Trust me: you can never have too many.
The Best Cashmere Jumper Brands
Marks and Spencer
The fact that so many of Marks & Spencer's own-brand cashmere jumpers are already sold out... in August... tells you everything you need to know. The high-street hero is the place to go for good-quality, classic cashmere pieces, most of which are less than £100. Make sure to keep an eye out for limited-edition pieces during collaboration collections, too—last year's Bella Freud designs were the must-haves of the season.
Khaite
Katie Holmes put Khaite cashmere on the map back in 2019, when she was photographed wearing the brand's oversize cardigan and matching bra on the streets of New York. Cue a million cut-price copies—but the original remains by far the best, and years later, is still in high demand. The brand makes some of the finest modern classic cashmere pieces around, all boasting exceptional softness, luxe details and impeccable craftsmanship—hence the hefty price.
Uniqlo
For cashmere jumpers under £100, look no further than Uniqlo, that makes some of the best-value basics around. Here, you’ll find roll-necks, crew-necks, v-necks, cardigans and vests in a variety of colour ways and knit weights. The grey shades are especially expensive-looking—I buy them oversized for a more relaxed look—while a stylish v-neck jumper with matching removable scarf will be landing in September as part of Clare Waight Keller’s collection.
Reformation
Reformation is my go-to for mid-priced fashion with major cool-girl vibes and sustainability credentials—so, naturally, I am a huge fan of its cashmere offering. I’ve lost count of how many times I’ve reached for the brand’s Jadey jumper over the past year: it is a true modern classic, beautifully oversized and slouchy, and cost-per-wear-wise, worth every penny. No wonder it's also a celebrity favourite, with Daisy Edgar-Jones, Selena Gomez and Miley Cyrus all spotted sporting the exact style lately. Hot tip: snap up the brand's cashmere in the summer sales for even better value.
COS
For oversized shapes, chunky weaves and minimalist vibes, COS should be your go-to. The brand's cashmere offering ranges from grey, black and cream staples to bolder colourways, like this bubblegum-pink jumper that's sure to be a sell-out.
The Elder Statesman
A luxury clothing, fashion and lifestyle brand from Los Angeles, The Elder Statesman is known for making some of the coolest—and most spoiling—cashmere items around. Each piece is hand-spun in a small LA workshop, featuring bold colours, patterns and trippy designs in a refreshing departure from cashmere’s ‘quiet luxury’ connotations. If you have the funds and are looking to make a statement, opt for one of the signature tie-dye jumpers—and you may as well treat yourself to one of the huge, cosy cashmere blankets while you’re at it, too.
Rise & Fall
Rise & Fall is still something of an insider secret, a B-Corp brand that partners directly with the same makers as top luxury houses to offer high-quality products, minus the massive mark-ups. Its cashmere offering is small but mighty, including both simple and more fashion-forward jumpers alongside trousers, accessories, and a supremely spoiling wrap.
Madeleine Thompson
Based between London and Hong Kong, Madeleine Thompson has practically single-handedly shaken up the world of cashmere with her fun, feminine designs and signature rainbow stripes. Cool girls including Rachelle Rowlings, Blanca Miro and Sarah Corbett-Winder regularly wear Madeleine's colourful pieces, but she also makes great basics for those who prefer a more minimal aesthetic. You can't beat her cashmere onesies and jogger sets for luxurious lounging, either.
Loulou De Saison
Founded by Parisian influencer Chloé Harrouche, Loulou De Saison is the name to know for minimalist The Row-esque cashmere that won't break the bank. Wool-mix pieces tend to be around the £300 mark, while pure cashmere starts at £500; both come in a chic selection of neutrals, and are guaranteed to become fast favourites.
Guest in Residence
I'm not usually one for a celebrity clothing line, but Gigi Hadid's knitwear brand has serious merit in its own right. Inspired by her own family hand-me-downs, Guest In Residence is all about crafting lust-worthy, premium knits worthy of being modern heirlooms—and the preppy, sports-inspired cashmere jumpers are a real highlight.
Barrie
With ex-Chanel designer Augustin Dol-Maillot as its helm, one of the oldest cashmere knitting manufacturers in Scotland has become the ultimate "if you know you know", ultra-luxury brand for those with seriously deep pockets. Decades-old traditional methods remain king, but are now used to craft cutting-edge pieces of the most exquisite kind, from trompe l'oeil 'denim' separates to hand-embroidered jumpers.
