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Fashion Times

Lifestyle

Cordelia Tai

Cozy but Certainly Not Snoozy Cashmere Sweaters to Snuggle Up in Now and in the New Year

Co (Organization) Matches Fashion FarFetch JCrew Raey Reformation Zara

These aren't your ordinary cashmere sweaters. (Credit: Courtesy of Raey)

Sweater weather is here. Time to break out the cashmere! Whether you're snuggling up on the couch or slipping on something extra cozy to take the edge off the morning commute, there's nothing more soothing than cashmere sweaters.

Unfortunately, these ultra-soft, ultra-supple knits do come at a premium. After all, the yarn comes from the fluffy undercoat of cashmere and pashmina goats so it's softer — and scarcer — than, say, sheep's wool. But they're so worth it. A cashmere sweater is a versatile, hard-wearing, seasonless closet staple that can last you decades if you wash and store it right.

That said, just because you plan to wear your cashmere for years to come doesn't mean you should relegate yourself to classic crewnecks in gloomy greiges. (Yawn.) Why not make your knitwear the focal point of your winter look? Take it from us: statement cashmere sweaters are the new closet essential.

As with everything else these days, designers are getting super inventive with their knitwear. Injecting new life into the category. Playing with textures, colors and silhouettes. Take Monique Lhuillier's pearl-embroidered design or Pilcro's sequin one, either perfect for a night out. Eye-catching tie details are also a big theme, from Reformation's coquettish collared cardigan to Zara's siren red, origami-able, high-neck knit. So are statement stripes and graphic prints. Choose between a new-school nautical option from Raey or serious pops of color care of Marni, Chloe, Guest In Residence and more.

Have you heard unapologetic girlishness is trending? Accordingly, Cecilie Bahnsen and J.Crew are adorning their cashmere with ruffles and feathers, respectively. Meanwhile labels like Crush Cashmere and Arch4 are using can't-miss cut-outs to create unusually flirty knits. And on or off the slopes, you can't go wrong with a fun Fair Isle sweater from CO or Khaite. The former used fringe trim to update the classic silhouette, the latter added structure and interest via ribbing and tortoiseshell buttons.

As for styling, pair your pillowy statement sweater with a high-waisted jean or denim maxi skirt for a look that's extremely en vogue. The weather outside may be gray and dreary, but your un-boring cashmere will light up the room.

Scroll down for our favorite statement cashmere sweaters to shop now.