Thanks to their warmth and soft texture, the best cashmere scarves are an attainable luxury. Cashmere is derived from Kashmir goats, which live in freezing climates and thus produce a super-warm undercoat from which the soft fibers are brushed off and then spun into yarn to create clothes and accessories, like scarves and cashmere sweaters. And while not nearly as cold as the -30 degree Himalayas, winters on the East Coast and in the mountains can be brutal. One part of the solution? Throw on a cashmere scarf. This winter accessory transitions easily between your indoor and outdoor wardrobe—some of our favorite cashmere scarf outfit formulas include pairing yours with a turtleneck and jeans, or a sweater and slip skirt. An essential and timeless piece, a cashmere scarf is an item you’ll have in your wardrobe for years to come.
No matter how you style yours—be it with a winter sweater, leather pants, a heavy coat and beret, or with a bright puffer for a sophisticated touch to an otherwise sporty piece—these are the best cashmere scarves topping our lists. Each one will stand the test of time.
What to Look for in Cashmere Scarves
It may seem obvious but it’s worth emphasizing: when shopping for cashmere scarves, you first want to look at the materials breakdown. Those that are 100 percent pure cashmere are of higher quality, which, of course, typically equates to a higher price tag. That’s not to say that anything less than 100 is on the poor end of the spectrum—you can certainly find excellently crafted and finely made options that are blended with other materials. However, the material percentage should play a role in your decision making when shopping so you know just exactly what you’re paying for.
The Best Cashmere Scarves
Authentic, locally-made Mongolian cashmere for only $50? You don’t have to pinch yourself because, no, you’re not dreaming—this is real. The affordable and sustainable cashmere brand explains that the wool for its heathered brown scarf was sourced from Hircus goats in Inner Mongolia in line with its ethical production standards. And in addition to its conscientious production, this is a scarf you’ll find yourself reaching for daily. Take it from this Quince customer: “The quality of this scarf is top-notch. It’s soft, long enough to wrap in different styles, and can even be used as a small shoulder cover.”
Banana Republic Chubut Cable Scarf
You love all of your cable-knit sweaters but now I’m asking you to consider a cable-knit cashmere scarf to wear right along with it. This one from beloved brand Banana Republic is well-priced at under $200 and is made from a merino wool and cashmere blend. The thicker knit is perfect for those who want to wear their favorite blanket outdoors while still looking cool. It comes in this luxe-looking white color and measures 72 inches in length for maximum snuggle-ability.
J. Crew Oversized Cashmere Wrap
Try a cashmere wrap instead of a scarf for optimal, full-coverage coziness. J. Crew’s oversized number is one of our top picks. It’s hard-working in terms of winter-proof warmth and not overly mind-boggling expensive—which is always a major plus. It comes in at just under $200 and is made of 100 percent pure cashmere, which makes its reasonable price tag almost too good to be true. Layer it under your favorite duster coat for top-performing warmth, or team it with your best loungewear for a comfy day at home.
Loro Piana Grande Cashmere Scarf
Loro Piana is a name you’ve likely heard several times throughout the quiet luxury conversation. The Italian luxury label is heralded for its if-you-you-know design and top-quality textiles, particularly its cashmere production. This fine scarf by the brand is, yes, a splurge, but it is an investment that will last you for years and years. One thrilled Saks Fifth Avenue shopper writes, “The scarf is of high quality and the colors are beyond! I would definitely recommend this scarf for you or to give as a gift.” Another says that “the lovely color enhanced by a glossy surface draws you to this scarf will lift your spirits on a winter day.”
Alex Mill Cashmere Neckwarmer
Sometimes a traditional cashmere scarf leaves you with too much fabric. I, for one, always feel a little uncomfortable when wearing a bunch of chunky layers around my neck, and this pick from Alex Mill solves that problem. Sleek and made for tucking in to the collar of your jacket, this 100 percent cashmere neck warmer is a must-buy. It’s amazingly-priced at under $100 and comes in three colors: This black iteration, a mustard yellow called “Monk,” and a heather gray.
Nordstrom Cashmere Reversible Wrap
What’s better than one cashmere scarf? Two cashmere scarves! While, yes, technically, this cozy winter accessory from Nordstrom’s mainline is just a single scarf, its reversible design makes it feel like two in one. Try its moody gray and ink blank colorway or its camel and ivory option, depending on which minimal combo catches your eye. It’s made of 100 percent cashmere and boasts fringed edges, which add a bit of drama to an otherwise neutral piece.
Everlane The Cashmere Scarf
Looking for something warm and bright this holiday season? Look no further than this bubblegum-pink cashmere scarf from Everlane. Available in five colors—there’s also a lime green one that I’m loving—it’s great for those who love to layer on the color during the festive season. It’s also made from 96 percent recycled cashmere. The other four percent comes from the inclusion of recycled wool. “Very cozy and super cute, not at all itchy,” wrote one rave reviewer on Everlane’s site. “The length works well as both outer wear and some thing to keep me warm in my cold office.”
Cuyana Recycled Cashmere Scarf
Crafted from start to finish in Italy and woven from sustainably-produced recycled cashmere and eco-friendly materials, this scarf from Cuyana is a winter purchase you can feel good about making—and one that will last you for ample seasons to come, too. As for how to wear this jumbo-sized piece, the options are yours to experiment with. Wrap it loosely around your shoulders as a luxe wrap, double-loop it around your neck, or tie it into one front-and-center knot—feel free to get creative.
Polo Ralph Lauren Cable Stitch Cashmere Scarf
A high-quality cable-knit sweater is a true winter essential—and so is a cable0knit cashmere scarf! This camel-colored option from the prepster brand Polo Ralph Lauren is our top pick for the rope-like design in scarf form. It’s 100 percent pure cashmere and measures in at 12 inches by 72 inches, making it one of the slimmer options on our roundup. Try the dark navy iteration if the classic camel shade doesn’t align with your style.
C by Bloomingdale’s Cashmere Rib Knit Scarf
This ribbed cashmere scarf from Bloomingdale’s in-house cashmere line lends texture to any outfit of your choice, be it uncontroversial and classic or experimental and bold. With an under-$200 price tag and seven colors to choose from, why not pick up one for yourself and for your bestie? Choose a neutral color for everyday wear, or opt for the season’s trendiest shade, bright red, for your fashion-loving friend. With how soft and cozy this scarf is, I promise they will love it. In fact, one reviewer had only positives to say, writing, “Cashmere and beautiful bright blue! What more could you ask for?”
Johnstons of Elgin Fringed Checked Cashmere Scarf
Launched originally as a wool mill in Elgin, Scotland, in 1797 (talk about a throwback!), Johnstons of Elgin is a clothing brand that champions pristine craftsmanship and hands-on production, passing on its secrets of the trade from generation to generation of owners. Look, for instance, to its plaid scarf made entirely of pure, 100 percent cashmere. Its design is timeless, and it reflects the label’s mission of cherishing fine quality and production. Consider pairing this tartan scarf with a beige trench coat for an utterly timeless look—checkmate!
Burberry Giant Icon Check Cashmere Scarf
For those who naturally gravitate toward the fashion classics, add this cashmere scarf in Burberry’s iconic, archival plaid print to your virtual cart. It also makes for a thoughtful gift for anyone in your life who appreciates the finer things. Take it from one reviewer who treated their son to this cozy, checked accessory: “My son loves his scarf! I got him matching socks because he just had to have them (his words, not mine),” they write. This cashmere piece would also pair perfectly with a Burberry trench coat, by the way.
Totême Black Triangle Scarf
Any item from the Swedish label is a minimalist’s dream (you’re definitely familiar with Totême’s striped turtleneck sweater), but its cashmere triangular scarf, in particular, is a seasonal standout. A hybrid between a shawl and scarf, this cozy wrap-around is a must-have for those who aren’t a fan of excess bulk but want their upper torso to be protected from winter’s harsh winds. It’s typically a splurge at $480, but it’s currently on super sale for $230 at SSENSE. Just think about how much this strategic piece will streamline your winter accessorizing!
Franco Ferrari Patterned Cashmere Scarf
If you want to pivot from red tartan, classic stripes, or monochromatic beiges and blacks in favor of a print with more oomph, start with this scarf by Franco Ferrari. The brand is heralded for its fine approach to warm-weather accessories: scarves, stoles, and shawls. This specific style boasts an original Italian print and is made of ultra-soft cashmere. This teal and fuchsia scarf will spice up your winter outfits with the perfect dose of eclectic flair. And if this print doesn’t quite capture your attention, try any of its other two highly-saturated printed options.
ME+EM Merino Cashmere Chunky Fisherman Rib Scarf
The description for this scarf from ME+EM says that it measures.a whopping 206 centimeters. That equates to roughly 7 feet (6.75, to exact). That means that this gray cashmere scarf is perfect for you if you’re a) really tall or b) like a scarf that wraps around, and around, and around until you’re warm enough. Style it with the matching gray cashmere beanie for a cute finished ensemble.
White + Warren Cashmere Travel Wrap
When you’re traveling, the goal is to be comfortable and cozy—which is why integrating a cashmere scarf into your rotation is a worthwhile idea. White + Warren’s Cashmere Travel Wrap, which comes in several different colors, is our top pick. Plus, it’s a cult favorite amongst the brand’s customers: It boasts a near-perfect four-point-five out of five stars with about 500 reviews, with one happy shopper describing it as “beautiful, useful, and a touch of luxury.” They continue: “There is nothing better than cashmere when flying as planes are often chilly. It’s warm as toast, lightweight, and easy to pack for carry-on.”
