There’s nothing quite like slipping into a beautiful cashmere sweater on a cold January morning. The weight, the softness, the way it instantly makes you feel put-together even when you’re just running errands. I get it. I really do.
But here’s what I’ve learned after years of building my knitwear collection: you don’t have to spend designer prices to get that luxurious look and feel. Some of the most-complimented sweaters in my closet? They’re the affordable finds that look far more expensive than they actually are.
Today I’m doing something fun—putting luxury winter knits side by side with their budget-friendly alternatives. We’re talking real comparisons, real prices, and real talk about where to splurge and where to save. Because at this stage of life, I want quality without the guilt, and I’m guessing you do too.
✨ What You’ll Find in This Post
- The Comparisons: Steal vs. Real
- 1. The Oversized Cocoon Cardigan
- 2. The Structured Button-Front Cardigan
- 3. The Oversized Luxury Crewneck
- 4. The Classic Cashmere Crewneck
- 5. The Everyday Cashmere Sweater (Best Value Pick)
- 6. The Cable Knit Sweater
- Brands to Know for Affordable Luxury Knits
- Beth’s Tips for Making Any Sweater Look Expensive
- FAQs – Cashmere Sweater Dupes
- Closing Thoughts
- More Winter Style Inspiration From the Blog
The Comparisons: Steal vs. Real
1. The Oversized Cocoon Cardigan
This is the sweater that launched a thousand dupes—and for good reason. The oversized cocoon cardigan has become the ultimate “throw on and go” piece for women who want to look effortlessly chic.
THE REAL: Jenni Kayne Cashmere Cocoon Cardigan – $475
100% Mongolian cashmere Iconic dropped shoulder silhouette Available in XXS-3X Multiple neutral colorways The one that started it all
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THE STEAL: Quince Mongolian Cashmere Oversized Boyfriend Cardigan – $140
Also 100% Mongolian cashmere Nearly identical oversized silhouette Slightly chunkier knit Available in 5 classic neutrals Free shipping and 365-day returns
shop nowYOUR SAVINGS: $355 (71% less!)
My Take: Multiple fashion editors have done side-by-side comparisons of these two cardigans, and the consensus? They’re remarkably similar. The Jenni Kayne has a slightly more refined drape and those perfect dropped shoulders, but the Quince delivers the same cozy, luxe look at a fraction of the price. The Quince may pill a bit faster, but for the savings? It’s absolutely worth it.
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2. The Structured Button-Front Cardigan
If you love the look of a more tailored cardigan—something with pockets you can actually use—this comparison is for you.
THE REAL: Jenni Kayne Cooper Cardigan – $525
70% wool / 30% cashmere blend Tighter, more structured weave Functional front pockets Warmer for truly cold days Classic ladylike silhouette
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THE STEAL: Quince Cashmere Structured Cardigan – $159
100% cashmere (yes, really) Slightly looser, stretchier weave Same button-front styling Available in ivory, chestnut, and black Beautiful quality for the price
shop nowYOUR SAVINGS: $366 (70% less!)
My Take: Here’s something interesting—the “steal” is actually 100% cashmere while the “real” is a wool-cashmere blend. The Jenni Kayne has a tighter knit that makes it warmer and more structured (perfect if you want to load up those pockets), but if pure cashmere matters to you, the Quince actually wins on that front. Both are beautiful. Your choice depends on whether you prioritize warmth or fiber content.
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3. The Oversized Luxury Crewneck
This is the sweater fashion editors dream about—the kind of effortlessly elegant piece that looks like it belongs on a runway but feels like a cozy blanket.
THE REAL: The Row Ophelia Sweater – $1,550
Wool-cashmere blend Sculptural sleeves (the signature detail) Made in Italy The celebrity and fashion editor's favorite Absolute runway perfection
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THE STEAL: COS Chunky Pure Cashmere Crew-Neck – $225
Premium pure cashmere Relaxed, cocooning fit Luxuriously weighty feel Sold out multiple times (that's how good it is) Available in versatile neutrals
shop nowYOUR SAVINGS: $1,325 (85% less!)
My Take: Let me be real—The Row Ophelia is a stunning sweater. Those sculptural sleeves are truly special. But at over $1,500? That’s a significant investment. The COS version has been called “as close to perfect as you can get” by fashion editors who’ve tested both. It has that same relaxed elegance, that same weighty quality that makes you feel like you’re wearing something special. For most of us, the COS is the smarter choice—and you’ll still look like a million dollars.
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4. The Classic Cashmere Crewneck
Every woman needs a beautiful cashmere crewneck in her closet. It’s the piece you reach for again and again—with jeans, under blazers, tucked into trousers. But does the price really matter for a basic?
THE REAL: J.Crew Cashmere Classic-fit Crewneck – $148
Over 30 years of expertise 20+ colors to choose from Classic fit that hits at the hip Proven quality and durability
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THE STEAL: Quince Mongolian Cashmere Crewneck – $50
100% Grade-A Mongolian cashmere 4.9-star rating with 27,700+ reviews Classic ribbed cuffs and hem Multiple neutral and color options Incredible value
shop nowYOUR SAVINGS: $138 (70% less!)
My Take: For a basic crewneck, the Quince is genuinely impressive. At $50 for 100% cashmere, it’s hard to find a better value anywhere. The J.Crew offers more color options and a slightly denser knit that some prefer, but for building out your cashmere basics without breaking the bank, Quince is the way to go. I’d buy one in every neutral at that price.
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5. The Everyday Cashmere Sweater (Best Value Pick)
This is my “if you only buy one affordable cashmere sweater” recommendation. When you want something that feels truly luxurious but won’t require a second mortgage.
THE REAL: Vince Weekend V-Neck Cashmere – $325
Designer luxury label Beautiful drape and weight Premium cashmere Timeless silhouette Investment piece quality
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THE STEAL: NAADAM Super Fine Cashmere Sweater – $178
100% Mongolian cashmere Ethically sourced directly from herders Machine washable (game-changer!) Available in 20+ colors Classic crewneck fit
shop nowYOUR SAVINGS: $147 (45% less!)
My Take: NAADAM is the gold standard for affordable luxury cashmere, and The Original Sweater is priced at $98 (V-Neck $178). It’s thicker and more luxurious-feeling than most budget cashmere, the colors are beautiful, and—here’s the real win—it’s machine washable. For under $100, you get cashmere that rivals pieces three times the price. This is the one I recommend to everyone.
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6. The Cable Knit Sweater
A fisherman-style cable knit is winter wardrobe perfection—cozy, classic, and endlessly versatile. But the price difference between designer and dupe might surprise you.
THE REAL: Jenni Kayne Cashmere Fisherman Sweater – $445
100% cashmere Classic fisherman knit pattern Timeless silhouette Beautiful neutral colors The elevated coastal grandmother vibe
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THE STEAL: Quince Cashmere Fisherman Crewneck – $100
Also 100% cashmere Same fisherman knit styling Ribbed details throughout Classic appeal Slightly heavier weight (some prefer this!)
shop nowYOUR SAVINGS: $345 (78% less!)
My Take: These two are remarkably similar in styling. The Quince cashmere is actually slightly heavier, which some reviewers prefer—it gives the sweater more presence. For the classic cable knit look that works with everything from jeans to wide-leg trousers, the Quince delivers beautifully at a quarter of the price.
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Brands to Know for Affordable Luxury Knits
After years of testing cashmere at every price point, here are the brands I trust for quality without the designer markup:
Best Overall Value: Quince ($50-$160) True 100% Mongolian cashmere at prices that seem too good to be true—but they deliver. Their direct-to-consumer model cuts out the middleman, and it shows.
Best Quality Under $100: NAADAM($98) Ethically sourced cashmere that’s machine washable and genuinely luxurious. The Original Sweater is their hero piece for a reason.
Best The Row Dupe: COS ($95-$225) Premium feel, architectural silhouettes, and that quiet luxury aesthetic. Their cashmere collection rivals designer pieces at a fraction of the cost.
Best Classic Investment: J.Crew($100-$200 on sale) Proven quality, Good Cashmere, Standard certified, and those beautiful colors. Worth watching for sales—they happen regularly.
Beth’s Tips for Making Any Sweater Look Expensive
1. Pay Attention to Fit.
An oversized sweater should still skim your body—not swallow you whole. Size up intentionally, not accidentally.
2. Invest in a Fabric Shaver.
All cashmere pills eventually. A quick once-over with a fabric shaver keeps even affordable pieces looking fresh and new.
3. Steam, Don’t Iron.
Steaming cashmere keeps it looking smooth without damaging the fibers. A handheld steamer is worth every penny.
4. Store Properly.
Fold cashmere—never hang it. And those cedar blocks in your drawer? They’re protecting your investment.
5. Let Colors Do the Work.
Neutral cashmere in ivory, camel, grey, or black always looks more expensive than trendy colors. Build your basics first.
6. Add Intentional Details.
A silk scarf, delicate gold jewelry, or a structured bag elevates any sweater instantly. The sweater is the canvas—the accessories are the art.
FAQs – Cashmere Sweater Dupes
It depends on the brand. Companies like Quince and NAADAM source the same Grade-A Mongolian cashmere as luxury labels—they just cut out the retail markup. You may notice slightly faster pilling with budget options, but the initial quality can be remarkably similar.
Look for Grade-A Mongolian cashmere with longer fibers (34-36mm). The sweater should feel weighty, not thin and flimsy. Good cashmere has a subtle sheen and bounces back when you stretch it gently.
Generally, yes—but all cashmere pills eventually. The difference is that higher-quality cashmere pills once and then stops, while lower-quality pieces may continue to pill. A fabric shaver is your best friend either way.
Hand washing in cold water with a gentle detergent is safest. Some brands (like NAADAM) are machine washable on a delicate cycle. Always lay flat to dry—never hang or put in the dryer.
For certain pieces, yes. If you want an iconic silhouette or specific design details (like The Row’s sculptural sleeves), the designer version may be worth it to you. But for basics? The affordable options deliver incredible value.
The NAADAM Original Cashmere Sweater at $98. It’s thick, luxurious, machine washable, and available in beautiful colors. It’s the gateway drug to affordable cashmere—in the best way.
Closing Thoughts
Cashmere Sweater Dupes
Here’s what I want you to take away from this post: beautiful cashmere doesn’t have to break the bank. Some of the most elegant, put-together women I know have closets filled with smart steals alongside their splurge pieces. It’s not about how much you spend—it’s about how you wear it.
So whether you’re treating yourself to that Jenni Kayne cardigan you’ve been eyeing or building out your basics with Quince and NAADAM, know that you can look and feel luxurious at any price point. That’s the real secret.
Now I want to hear from you—do you have a favorite cashmere dupe? A designer piece that was worth every penny? Share in the comments below!
Aging with grace, strength, and beautiful sweaters.
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