Cashmere has always been associated with timeless luxury. From elegant coats to cozy sweaters, it remains one of the most sought-after fabrics in women’s wardrobes. But not all cashmere is exactly the same. While traditional cashmere is known for its smooth, silky texture, there is another variation called brushed cashmere. This finish creates a fluffy, cloud-like surface that feels even softer to the touch. But does this come at a cost? And how do you take care of it compared to regular cashmere?
To answer these questions, we’ll explore what is cashmere, how brushed cashmere differs, the pros and cons of each, styling tips, and detailed care advice to help your garments last.
Brushed Cashmere Seamless Knit Crewneck Sweater
What is Cashmere?
When people ask, “what is cashmere?” the answer goes back to the fine undercoat of cashmere goats, which live in cold climates like Mongolia, Nepal, and northern China. These goats develop a soft, insulating layer of downy fibers to survive freezing winters. Farmers carefully comb or shear the goats during spring, gathering these delicate fibers to spin into yarn.
Unlike sheep’s wool, cashmere fibers are exceptionally fine, lightweight, and smooth. That’s why cashmere clothing feels soft against the skin without the itchiness often associated with wool. At the same time, it provides remarkable insulation. A wool cashmere coat, for instance, can be warmer than a much heavier regular wool coat while still feeling light and elegant.
Brushed Cashmere vs Regular Cashmere
Brushed cashmere is created through a finishing process rather than being a different type of fiber. After the garment is knitted or woven, it is brushed with fine bristles to lift the fibers slightly from the surface. This creates a fluffy, cozy look and feel. Items like a brushed cashmere cardigan or a fluffy cashmere sweater embody this finish perfectly.
Regular cashmere, by contrast, is left smooth. It maintains a sleek, refined surface that looks polished and luxurious. A classic cashmere dress or a simple cashmere beret is often made with regular, unbrushed fibers for an elegant, timeless appeal.
The main difference comes down to texture, appearance, and durability. Brushed versions feel cozy but are more prone to pilling and wear, while regular cashmere is more resilient and versatile for long-term investment pieces.
Ultrafine Brushed Cashmere Crewneck Cardigan
Advantages of Brushed Cashmere
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Ultra-soft and cozy feel, making it perfect for winter comfort
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Warm and insulating without heavy layering
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Fluffy, casual aesthetic that suits relaxed and festive styles
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Great for statement pieces like a fuzzy cashmere sweater or brushed cashmere cardigan
Disadvantages of Brushed Cashmere
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More delicate, with fibers that pill faster than smooth cashmere
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Less formal in appearance compared to classic cashmere clothing
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Requires extra care in storage and cleaning to avoid damage
Advantages of Regular Cashmere
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Long-lasting and more durable than brushed versions
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Versatile for both casual and formal outfits
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Elegant, polished look in garments like a cashmere dress or wool cashmere coat
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Smoother surface resists pilling better over time
How to Care for Regular Cashmere Sweaters
Cashmere is delicate but can last decades with proper care. Regular cashmere is slightly easier to maintain than brushed versions.
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Washing: Hand wash in cold water with a gentle wool detergent, or use a delicate machine cycle in a garment bag.
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Drying: Lay flat on a clean towel, reshaping while drying. Never hang, as this causes stretching.
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Storage: Fold neatly and store in a breathable cotton bag with cedar blocks to protect against moths.
Pieces like a cashmere christmas sweater or a wool cashmere coat should not be washed frequently. Often, airing them out after wear is enough to freshen them up.
How to Care for Brushed Cashmere Sweaters
Because brushed fibers are raised, brushed cashmere needs even more attention.
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Washing: Always hand wash in cold water. Use minimal detergent and never wring.
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Drying: Pat gently with a towel to remove excess water and lay flat to dry. Avoid brushing or combing, as this damages the lifted fibers.
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Storage: Fold and store flat, ideally in a breathable bag. For brushed cashmere cardigan styles or fluffy cashmere sweater pieces, avoid stacking under heavy garments that could crush the loft.
Brushed cashmere is delicate enough that many people prefer professional cleaning, especially for special pieces like a brushed cashmere sweater dress.
How to Raise Brushed Cashmere Sweaters to Restore Fluff and Texture
Over time, even the finest brushed cashmere can lose its soft, cloudlike texture. Natural wear, folding, or pressure from storage can gently press the delicate fibers down — but the good news is, you can bring that signature fluffiness back with the right care.
Start by laying your sweater flat on a clean, dry towel. Using a cashmere brush (a small, fine-bristled fabric brush designed for wool and cashmere), gently stroke the surface in one direction — ideally following the grain of the knit. This helps lift the surface fibers without damaging the weave. Use light, consistent pressure rather than scrubbing, and focus on areas that look especially smooth or shiny.
If you don’t have a cashmere brush, a soft garment brush or baby hairbrush can work in a pinch. For stubbornly flat spots, let your sweater rest overnight on a hanger to air out before brushing again — moisture in the air helps relax the fibers slightly, making them easier to revive.
To maintain that newly raised texture, always store brushed cashmere folded, not hung, and avoid compressing it under heavy items. A gentle refresh every few wears keeps the fibers light, fluffy, and as luxuriously soft as the day you bought it.
Pure Brushed Cashmere Hoodie Sweater
Common Mistakes to Avoid
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Hanging cashmere garments – Both brushed and regular cashmere stretch under their own weight. Always fold.
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Using hot water – This can shrink or felt the fibers. Cold water only.
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Frequent washing – Cashmere doesn’t need to be washed after every wear; spot cleaning or airing out works better.
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Ignoring pilling – Pills are natural in brushed and regular cashmere. Use a cashmere comb gently to remove them.
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Improper storage – Avoid plastic bags, which trap moisture. Breathable storage is key.
Styling Brushed Cashmere
Brushed cashmere works beautifully in casual, cozy looks.
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Winter weekends: A brushed cashmere cardigan layered over jeans and boots creates a relaxed, warm outfit.
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Festive gatherings: A fluffy cashmere sweater pairs perfectly with a skirt and heels for an approachable holiday look.
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Cold lounging: Wear a brushed cashmere sweater at home with leggings for ultimate comfort.
Because of its softness and volume, brushed cashmere adds texture and warmth but leans casual. It’s great for cold days when coziness is the priority.
Styling Regular Cashmere
Smooth cashmere offers versatility from work to evening events.
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Office-ready: A cashmere dress under a blazer is professional yet comfortable.
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Elegant evenings: A wool cashmere coat layered over a black dress is timeless and sophisticated.
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Accessories: A cashmere beret adds subtle luxury to everyday outfits.
Regular cashmere shines in more formal settings where a polished appearance matters.
Seasonal Guide to Cashmere
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Fall: Start layering lightweight options like a brushed cashmere cardigan or a cashmere scarf.
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Winter: Opt for heavier pieces like a wool cashmere coat, fuzzy cashmere sweater, or fluffy cashmere sweater.
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Spring: Stick to breathable items like a cashmere dress or cashmere beret.
Brushed Cashmere vs Regular Cashmere for Longevity
If you want investment pieces that will last decades, regular cashmere is the better option. Smooth fibers resist wear and keep their refined appearance longer. A wool cashmere coat, cashmere dress, or cashmere beret can be wardrobe staples for years.
Brushed cashmere, however, shines when comfort and seasonal softness are priorities. A brushed cashmere cardigan or fluffy cashmere sweater may not last as long but will deliver unmatched coziness during winter.
When to Choose Brushed Cashmere
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Cozy loungewear
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Festive holiday sweaters like a fuzzy cashmere sweater or cashmere christmas sweater
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Weekend casual looks with jeans or skirts
When to Choose Regular Cashmere
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Investment pieces like a wool cashmere coat
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Classic accessories like a cashmere beret
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Elegant staples like a cashmere dress
Italian-Made Brushed Cashmere Crewneck Sweater
Final Thoughts
Brushed cashmere and regular cashmere both hold a place in a timeless wardrobe. Brushed versions provide extra coziness and texture, making them ideal for casual and festive wear. Regular cashmere remains the gold standard for elegance, resilience, and long-term investment.
Whether you’re drawn to the fluffy feel of a brushed cashmere sweater or the polished look of a cashmere dress, the key to enjoying either is proper care. With mindful washing, careful storage, and thoughtful styling, your cashmere — brushed or smooth — will remain a cherished part of your wardrobe for years to come.