Perfect for braving the cold and always elegant in mid-season when the temperature drops in the evening, cashmere is the star fabric of the winter months. Luxus Plus offers some advice on how to choose the right cashmere sweater, with a focus on quality, durability, and elegance.
It is one of the essentials of any wardrobe. Appreciated for its elegant look and durable quality,the cashmere sweater is a sure bet in the fashion world, fully integrated into the ultra-popular Quiet Luxury trend.
From 100% cashmere to specific fibers
Cashmere is a very fine and soft wool, a down made from the undercoat of goats in cold regions of China (the world’s leading producer), Mongolia, Tibet, Pakistan, India, and Iran. Although it is a high-end product, this material has become widely available throughout the world, with prices varying and quality differing from one item to another, making the “perfect purchase” more complex.
One of the key characteristics of cashmere is its fibers: the finer and longer they are, the softer, warmer, and more durable the sweater will be. It all depends on their thickness, measured in microns. When the fibers are less than 16 microns, the garment will be particularly soft, but inevitably more delicate. Between 16 and 19 microns, it will be very soft and at the same time strong, resistant to washing and everyday wear. At more than 19 microns, the sweater will be less soft, sometimes rougher.
Another point: the longer the fibers, the smoother the garment will be and the less prone to pilling.
We therefore recommend choosing 100% cashmere (rather than a cashmere blend) with long fibers of less than 19 microns, offering an optimal balance and a very chic and comfortable finish. If the label does not indicate these basic elements, it is best to look for reputable brands, such as NOTSHY cashmere sweaters, a French brand of high-end cashmere clothing for women.
For those who feel the cold, lightweight cashmere sweaters should be avoided in winter and preferred for mid-seasons. At over 400 grams, the garment will be very warm, while between 200 and 300 grams, it will be thinner, less insulating, but also more fragile.
The cut and details
Once you have found the right quality, you need to choose the style of the sweater. The regular straight cut is the great classic, suitable for all body types. We also love the oversized look, which is modern and comfortable, while adding volume to the silhouette. The goal is also to choose the right size and avoid slim fits, as cashmere does not lend itself to close-fitting garments.
Details are just as important, especially on the collar. Round for ease, V-neck to wear with a shirt or show off a beautiful neckline, refined turtleneck to face low temperatures… All you have to do is decide! The finishes on the edges of the cuffs and at the bottom of the garment, as well as clean, even seams and perfectly placed buttons in the case of a cardigan, should also be checked. Today, there are many styles that allow you to express your look with a variety of modern and trendy cuts.
Finally, the color should be chosen to match your wardrobe. From neutral and versatile shades of black, gray, white, beige, and navy to brighter shades to enhance your outfits, as well as original patterns: there’s a sweater for everyone. Cashmere pieces go very well with jewelry, such as long necklaces, thin stone necklaces, and chunky earrings, and can be worn either over or tucked into the waistband of pants or a long skirt for a casual chic look, further structuring the silhouette by emphasizing the waist.
One last tip when buying a cashmere sweater: its durability depends not only on its quality but also on how it is cared for. To make it last, it is best to wash it by hand or on a cold wool cycle (20 degrees maximum). Above all, do not put it in the dryer and store it folded to prevent the hanger from deforming the fabric. With a little TLC, your cashmere sweater will become the star piece in your wardrobe.
Read also > [Luxus Magazine] 7 trendy umbrellas to keep you dry this winter
Featured photo: © NOTSHY
