There is no garment quite equal to the slinky charm of a pure cashmere jumper. Exquisitely soft and comfortable, they are also the epitome of style and sophistication. However, not all cashmere jumpers are created equal…There are some qualities that you should look for to ensure that you are choosing the very best, whether for a gift or simply to spoil yourself.

Here’s a guide to help you select the best fit, quality, and style for a jumper that you will treasure for years to come.

What is cashmere?

Cashmere is a type of wool obtained from the undercoat of specific breeds of goat, which are native to Central Asia. It’s a wool with exceptionally fine smooth fibres, which is ideal for making the luxuriously soft knitwear that feels so light and comfortable against the skin. 

Producing the very finest quality cashmere products is a very time and labour intensive process, which is why they are more expensive than many other fabrics. However, the quality of the cashmere and the way it has been processed can vary considerably. To make sure you are getting the best value for your money, here’s what to look out for.

Understanding ply

Cashmere products should have a ply label, such as single ply, two-ply, three-ply, and so on. This refers to the number of yarns twisted together to create the fabric. Consider how you will use the garment; if you want a lightweight sweater for cool summer days, then a single ply will be suitable for this purpose. 

Two-ply is generally considered to be the ideal balance for a cashmere jumper, because it retains the lightness and thinness whilst providing extra warmth. This makes them ideal for layering with jackets, cardigans, and so on. Three and four ply garments tend to be bulkier and not necessarily that much warmer. 

Check for 100% cashmere products

Some manufacturers may advertise a product as cashmere, only for the label to state that it has been blended with other fibres. These will be of inferior quality, and the fabric may soon pill or stretch out of shape. 

Beware of products that have been coated in artificial fabric softeners, that may feel excessively soft when you touch it to create the illusion of genuine cashmere. Once the softener has been washed off, the garment will soon show signs of wear and tear. High quality cashmere will retain its softness and shape through multiple washes.

An eye for detail

Check the seams, stitching, and ribbing of the garment, which should be even and consistent with no loose threads or gaps. 

Check the fit and style

Finally, you want to make sure that the style and fit of the jumper is flattering to your body shape. This can be a matter of personal preference, but generally cashmere looks its best when neither too loose or too baggy. Jumpers are available in a range of classic styles, including V-neck, round neck, turtle neck, and they can be ribbed or plain.