Best Affordable Cashmere Brands
Cashmere does not have to cost $300. These brands deliver genuine cashmere at accessible prices — here is what to look for and what compromises to expect.
Updated 2026-04-08
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Grade A fibers: Cashmere quality depends on fiber fineness. Grade A (under 15.5 microns) is the softest and most durable. Budget cashmere often uses Grade B or C, which pills faster and feels coarser.
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Ply count: 2-ply cashmere is more durable and warm than single-ply. Most affordable brands offer single-ply, which is lighter but pills more quickly. 2-ply at an affordable price is a genuine find.
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Knit density: Hold the garment up to light. If you can see through it easily, the knit is too loose — it will pill, snag, and lose shape quickly. Dense knits last longer.
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Care instructions: All cashmere should be hand-washed or machine-washed on cold delicate. Brands that claim their cashmere is machine-wash friendly at regular settings are either using blends or overselling durability.
Built for your closet
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A quality cashmere sweater is one of the most versatile wardrobe investments. TRY shows you how it pairs with your existing clothes across casual, work, and evening contexts.
Quince offers Grade A Mongolian cashmere at remarkably low prices through direct-to-consumer sourcing. Naadam sources directly from Mongolian herders and offers mid-range pricing. Uniqlo cashmere is the most accessible entry point, though quality varies by season. State Cashmere focuses on classic styles at below-boutique pricing. Jenni Kayne and Everlane sit at the upper end of affordable.
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Questions, answered.
Why does cashmere price vary so much?
The biggest factors are fiber grade, ply count, sourcing, and brand markup. A single-ply Grade C cashmere sweater from a fast-fashion brand might cost $50 but pill within weeks. A 2-ply Grade A sweater from a DTC brand might cost $120 and last years. The fiber quality and construction, not the brand name, determine actual value.
How do I keep affordable cashmere from pilling?
Hand wash in cold water with cashmere shampoo, lay flat to dry, and use a cashmere comb to gently remove pills before they worsen. Store folded (never hung) with cedar to deter moths. Pilling is normal for all cashmere — even expensive cashmere pills. The difference is how quickly it recovers with proper care.