Why Cashmere Knitwear Will Always Be The Ultimate Wardrobe Investment
Chic, cozy and undeniably cool, nothing quite beats the enduring allure of a superfine cashmere sweater or cardigan, says GRACE COOK
There are few items in our closets that we always want to return to come winter. Most garments that we consider sartorial building blocks are subject to seasonal trends, with luxury labels offering design-led twists on silhouette or fabrics that anchor new pieces to the current season and the mood that we are in. A cashmere knit, however, does none of those things. Of course, there are slight variations that lend a contemporary feel to a knitted sweater or cardigan, but, overall, the understated and effortless nature of a luxurious sweater is something that will never go out of style.
That’s why a cashmere knit will always be the ultimate investment piece. Consider each new addition in terms of its outfit mileage: do the girl math and within just one season alone, a stone-colored cashmere turtleneck from Nili Lotan, for example, or a mid-gray balloon-sleeve cardigan from Arch4, will be almost negative in equity. Yet its timeless appeal and style means the outfit opportunities remain endless.
The black turtleneck is a prime example of knitwear’s versatility. Saint Laurent’s signature style is a classic that will always feel contemporary with simple styling tricks. With its relaxed fit, the super-soft cashmere instantly dresses up an understated pair of jeans, while being smart enough to layer under a blazer for days spent in the office. Yet, when paired with a silky skirt or with a pair of leather pants, it instantly becomes a piece to wear to after-dark dinners and nights out under the city lights. The Row’s ‘Hepny’ sweater offers a similarly easy silhouette in a mid-tone beige, which will look polished paired with everything from crisp white tailoring to rich-chocolate slip dresses. Whether it’s for work or the weekend, no wardrobe is complete without a superfine cashmere turtleneck.
Looking to layer? A cashmere cardigan will prove a trans-seasonal closet ally. Seamlessly worn over T-shirts come spring, during the winter months you can slip it on over a fitted cashmere sweater by Valentino Garavani or La Ligne to elevate your look with minimal effort. Cardigans in shades of navy and black will always be wardrobe essential, but for a switch-up, look to Éterne’s rich khaki cardigan for a take that is warmer on the eye but no less wearable. Meanwhile, Staud’s popping apple-green and Lisa Yang’s buttery-yellow styles make a colorful statement yet are just as versatile.
The off-duty polo shirt is also reinvented as a cashmere iteration. Smart or casual, a knitted polo top blends the polish of a button-down cotton shirt with the layering versatility of a cardigan. And for a look that feels considered yet undeniably comfortable, simply unfasten the buttons and layer a form-fitting turtleneck or a crisp white crew neck T-shirt underneath – Guest In Residence’s ‘All Day’ sweater, made from super-soft Mongolian cashmere, guarantees an undeniably slick look. Ultimately, the versatility of a cashmere knit makes every style a forever favorite – and the coziest investment piece you’ll want to wear on repeat, year in, year out.
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