Whether you opt for sweaters, scarves or other innovative knitwear, cashmere is a truly timeless luxury. There’s nothing quite like wearing freshly washed, soft cashmere, whether it’s brand new or a precious favorite. Cashmere also happens to be part of the understated luxury trend – which has led to a boom in chic cashmere brands, but also means that super-soft fabrics are often a profligacy. While it’s worth investing in quality clothing that can be worn for many years, it’s not always realistic to spend hundreds of dollars on a single piece of clothing. Input: Cashmere imitations, aka fabric innovations, promise the same softness at a lower price. Next, the experts will reveal how these alternatives compare to real cashmere, as well as their favorite shopping tips and product selections.
What Is Cashmere?
Cashmere is a type of wool collected from cashmere goats and Pashmina goats. Margaret Frey, a professor of fiber science, says it is made up of fine and delicate fibers with a very resilient structure. This fabric is also excellent at holding its shape, so your beloved cashmere sweater is less likely to sag and lose its shape over time.
From an experience perspective, cashmere knitwear stands out because it’s soft to the touch and lightweight, while keeping you comfortable. As fashion content creator Aissata Kourouma tells us, the soft natural fibres are gentle on sensitive skin.
What Is a Cashmere Imitation?
It’s no surprise that brands want to emulate a coveted fabric like cashmere, especially since cost is a major discourage from many people buying. Retailers like Gap and Target have recently launched their own, extremely approachable cashmere styles (rave reviews on TikTok). We’re no strangers to luxury scams – sometimes, alternatives to these “hidden riches” can come close to the real deal.
While you should always do your research to understand what you’re getting before adding to your cart, “the culture of deception has evolved in the best way possible,” Kuruma says. “Many high street brands, such as Mango and H&M, do a better job of giving customers the luxury they deserve at affordable prices.”
Cashmere with Alternatives
When comparing cashmere and lower-priced alternatives, fiber quality is often one of the biggest differences. Frey warns that cotton-blend sweaters often lose their shape after washing, with drooping sleeves, hems, and necklines. This fabric may also degrade or pill at a faster rate, so whether you want to invest in a luxury item that will last you for a long time, or would rather try a more accessible alternative that gives you the look and feel of cashmere, is up to you currently, but may need to be replaced as soon as possible.
You’ll also need to consider differences in care procedures. Personal stylist Holly Katz advises that sweaters made from 100% cashmere should also be dry or hand washed to avoid damaging the fragile fibers. You’ll have more leeway when it comes to caring for cashmere imitations, and if your goal is to be more efficient, we’ll definitely take that into account.
What to Look out for When Shopping
When looking for an alternative to luxury cashmere, be sure to plan an in-person shopping trip, especially if you’ve never tried the brand’s products before. While most retailers list fabric ingredients online, Katz says it’s hard to discern the exact texture and quality from photos alone.
To buy cashmere-like clothes, search for labels labeled “cashmere-like” or “fine-knit.” Kuruma says the fabric should be soft, have a smooth surface and be free of stiff fibers or loose threads.
Is the Cashmere Scam Worth It?
If genuine cashmere is out of your price range and you’re realistic about what you expect from yourself, a cashmere knockoff might be worth buying. “It all depends on what you want to pay,” Katz said. She likens the difference to vegan leather versus animal leather: imitations can somehow replicate the look and feel of luxury cashmere knitwear without the hefty price tag. However, knitwear that is not 100% cashmere cannot maintain its integrity for a long time. If you’re looking for a truly longevity product that’s more accessible than many luxury items, consider skipping the other options altogether and buying a 100% cashmere piece at a mid-price price.
At Last
Cashmere sweaters are a convenient way to expand your winter wardrobe with minimal damage to your wallet, making them a great option for those looking for a soft, luxurious feel to knitwear at a bargain price. However, experts warn that you should always shop in person and keep your expectations realistic. “The style is very personal, and I’m a firm believer that you don’t have to spend a lot of money to be stylish,” Kuruma said. “A culture of deception can be a great way to retail, but still be careful. ”
