Best Cashmere Sweaters for Any Working Woman

Complete your work wardrobe with a collection of cashmere sweaters for every occasion. When shopping for a women's sweater for work, it's important to choose a versatile piece that's classic and elegant. The great thing about cashmere is that you can wear it after work and on weekends, too. Read on to learn more about this luxury material and how to incorporate it into your wardrobe.

What Is Cashmere?

One of the most popular types of cashmere is the inner Mongolian cashmere. It's derived from a breed of goat in the Gobi Desert region prized for its ultra-soft, ultra-warm wool. The goats are combed to harvest the wool, which is a sustainable and cruelty-free practice. Cashmere is finer than human hair — six times finer, in fact. This hollow fiber is incredibly lightweight for the level of warmth it provides, but it's also delicate and must be dry cleaned or hand washed with a mild detergent. You can use baby shampoo and warm water to hand wash a cashmere sweater. Press out the water and lay flat to dry. If properly cared for, a cashmere sweater can last for years.

Best for Spring and Summer

For spring, the women's cashmere sweater that is a must-have is a short-sleeve crew neck. This sweater style can be worn on its own with a pair of slacks or a pencil skirt; add pumps and a strand of pearls for a classic, always-appropriate look. On the weekends, wear your crew neck cashmere with a favorite pair of jeans, such as a lightly distressed pair of skinny jeans or an ultra-trendy pair of high-rise jeans.

If you're not used to wearing women's sweaters in the sunny months, don't worry. Although cashmere keeps you warm, it's light enough for all seasons. Don't think you can wear cashmere in the summer? Think again! This fabric is ideal to wear all year, especially if you work in a climate conditioned building. One high-quality cashmere sweater can be layered with other pieces to wear in any weather.

Best for Fall and Winter

A cashmere cardigan is a wardrobe staple you'll want to wear over and over in the fall and winter. A cardigan can be worn buttoned up on its own, or unbuttoned over a camisole, tank or blouse. You can even layer a cashmere cardigan over a collared button-up shirt for a modest look that pairs well with slacks and skirts.

Layer an open-tie cashmere cardigan over a light sweater for warmth on cool fall and winter days. The layered look is not only trendy but also practical. If your office gets too warm, you can remove the cardigan and just wear the light sweater underneath. You can also wear this cardigan style over women's tunic sweaters for a flowing look that goes well with wide-leg trousers and maxi skirts.

Best for Business Lunches

For business lunches, consider a cashmere sweater with a colorful argyle print, paired with black slacks and low pumps or kitten heels. This look is casual yet sophisticated, and it doesn't require the addition of many accessories because the print takes center stage. If you need a little glitz, add a pair of white sapphire or pearl stud earrings and a statement ring.

You could also opt for a solid-color cashmere sweater in a fashion-forward color such as dove gray or blush pink, paired with slacks in a matching tone for a monochromatic look. If you're not sure what color shoes to wear, you can't go wrong with nude. Cashmere sweaters come in many colors, so you're sure to find one in your favorite shade. There are soft pastels, rich jewel tones, and neutrals that go with everything.

Best for Casual Days

If you have to pop into the office on your day off, do so in style with a V-neck cashmere sweater. This neckline accentuates every body type and pairs well with jeans in all styles. You could wear it with a loose-fit pair of jeans in a dark wash for a structured look, or a pair of women's black jeans for a corporate-casual style that's versatile and chic. You could even wear one of these sweaters with a pair of leggings or jeggings and calf-high riding boots or ankle booties. For a trendy touch, layer on a statement scarf and add a pair of hoop earrings. No matter what kind of pants, shoes or accessories you choose, cashmere lends any outfit an upscale touch.