CASHMERE
CARDIGANS
CASHMERE
CARDIGANS
CASHMERE
CARDIGANS
CASHMERE
CARDIGANS
Italeau’s collection of Italian-made cashmere cardigans for women includes an easy, chic and amazingly versatile sleeveless knit to be worn casually over tees or tanks or more formally with a blouse and heels, the perfect duster cardi to drape over any outfit, open, belted or layered and a zip-up, more streamlined fit with front pockets and a double-knit high collar. You may be covering up in luxurious warmth, but you definitely won’t go unnoticed!
A high-quality cashmere cardigan will never go out of style. Made in the finest Italian cashmere, it’ll be the perfect companion for any occasion. Cashmere cardigans are soft and warm and can be matched with everything from crisp, cotton shirts to stylish skirts. Bring a little Bella Vita into your life!
For chic ladies, nothing is more essential to the wardrobe than a cashmere cardigan. Cashmere is the ultimate yarn for lightweight layering and it is breathable, luxuriously soft, and stylish. With its natural fiber, it guarantees all-year warmth and versatility.
Longer-length cashmere cardigans are a wardrobe staple. They add style and structure to casual looks and workwear, worn under both longer jackets or coats. Pair a fitted cashmere cardigan with an equally elegant leather or suede outfit for ultimate comfort and warmth. Complete your look with a pair of cozy ankle boots or smart leather flats to look even more put-together.
It’s believed that the term cardigan first came to life shortly after the Crimean War (1853-1856). The inspiration for this fashion trend is often credited to British Lieutenant-General James Thomas Brudenell, 7th Earl of Cardigan (or Lord Cardigan), who is said to have sported a woolen waistcoat during the War’s many engagements. Over a century and a half later, the passion for cardigans is still alive, and during this winter season, Italeau is pleased to be showcasing cashmere cardigans for women. Come discover our extraordinary collection of 100% medium-gauge cashmere cardigans for women, handcrafted by accomplished artisans in the Tuscany region of Italy. We are confident that you’ll want to add this soft, luxurious Italian Cashmere Sweater to your wardrobe. In addition to our beautiful cardigans, don’t miss out on our dreamy selection of Italian Cashmere Wraps, Italian Cashmere Hoodies, Italian Cashmere Robes, and so much more.
Like the Italian cashmere sweaters and other garments we offer, our Italian cashmere cardigans are produced using only the finest quality yarns. So much effort goes into the meticulous start-to-finish process, making the end result a highly sought-after commodity. From the cleansing of goat fur to its conversion into yarn, each intricate, arduous step is completed by hand. After the yarn is created and dyed, a labor-intensive weaving process is begun. As a result, the finished textiles are amazingly soft, lightweight, and fairly resistant to pilling. Since cashmere is a natural product, cardigans should be long-lasting garments, as long as they are well cared for.
Cashmere cardigans are extremely versatile and drape beautifully. Whether jazzing things up or attending a family get-together, they are suitable for virtually any occasion.
With Jeans and a simple tee: A classic look that is easy to throw together. Pair a cashmere cardigan with a basic tee and any style of jeans for a casual, yet stylish outfit.
A cashmere cardigan can be dressed up by wearing it over a dress and pairing it with heels for a chic look. For a more professional look, pair a cashmere cardigan with any dress pants and a button-up. A cashmere cardigan can be more casual by wearing it with a skirt and boots. Cozy and comfortable. For a warm weather look, pair a cashmere cardigan with shorts and a tank top.
Although Italeau’s cashmere cardigans are made in Italy, we have consistently purchased material exclusively from highland goat breeders in Mongolia, who are known for providing the best fur in the world. Like most businesses in Italy that facilitate handmade textiles, there are certifications required in order for their goods to meet international standards. Added to that, the European Union has strict guidelines on the exportation of textiles, in that the fiber content must be indicated on the label. This assures the consumer that their merchandise is a genuine, quality article. Italy has a long history of producing textiles, and the country has been working with cashmere for many decades. This experience has allowed Italian manufacturers to refine their production processes and produce some of the finest cashmere products in the world.
Italian Cashmere Wraps & Ponchos
Italian Wool Sweaters & Outerwear
If the quality of your clothing is a deciding factor for your purchases, then yes, Italian-made cashmere cardigans are a worthy addition to your collection. Italian-made cashmere cardigans are known for their superior quality and craftsmanship. The use of high-quality raw materials and traditional techniques results in a product that is soft, warm, and durable. Italeau weaves its cardigans with Grade-A cashmere fibers, which means it’s not intermingled with other materials and guarantees the highest standards of purity. Its breathability, durability, and longevity are second to none. Additionally, owning an Italian-made cashmere cardigan is seen as a luxury and a status symbol, making it a great investment piece.
Cashmere is the ideal material for cardigans because of its thermal regulating properties and its cozy, ultra soft feel. Other than Mongolia, the natural wool needed to make top-grade cashmere is also found in other regions of China. Once it has been imported to Italy, and all of the preliminary processes are completed, it’s the skilled Italian artisans who meticulously transform the yarn into the masterpieces you are presented with. These experts are part of a trade community that prides itself on providing their clients with the best textiles money can buy. For the consumer, that’s an enorme vantaggio - a huge benefit!
Outside of unprecedented softness, warmth is one of the most delicious attributes of a cashmere cardigan. In fact, some tests have shown that clothing made of cashmere is 3-8 times warmer than its popular counterpart, Merino wool - not to mention that it retains heat without being bulky or heavy like most wool garments. So for those who enjoy being enveloped by radiant comfort on a chilly winter night, this is the ideal choice for maximum insulation.
Cashmere cardigans and sweaters are enjoyed by all ages and sexes due to their special uniqueness. Italeau carries a range of cardigans that include open-front and sleeveless styles. Our open front cardigans come in a range of colors that leave something for everyone’s taste and style.
The answer to this was best summed up by the fashion icon, Hubert de Givenchy: …”all a woman needs to be chic is a raincoat, two suits, a pair of trousers, and a cashmere sweater.…” Cashmere exudes an attitude of style, refinement, and class. Just putting it on is a slice of heaven. It’s the epitome of softness, coziness, and bliss. Plus, it goes with just about anything, from your favorite pair of jeans to those dressy slacks that are in need of a fashionable enhancement.
To date, the most exceptional cardigans are those made of premium cashmere, the sumptuous, desirable product spun from the silky undercoat of goats. Nothing is better than having a sweater feel like butter next to your skin, and that’s why we want to wear them repeatedly. Most of all, cashmere fibers offer everlasting comfort compared to man-made fabrics such as polyester, rayon, or viscose. It's worth noting that the quality of cashmere can vary, and factors such as the grade of the cashmere, the processing method, and the spinning technique can all impact the final feel of the product. When looking for a soft cashmere cardigan, it's important to invest in a high-quality product made from fine cashmere fibers. Shopping with Italeau will ensure that you have received the finest high-quality cashmere, handmade with care, in small batches just for you.
Unless cared for improperly, genuine cashmere cardigans can usually last 2-3 decades - or an entire lifetime. A cashmere cardigan can even become an heirloom if it is well-made, well-cared for, and holds personal significance for the owner. Investing in Italian cashmere for your cardigan and properly caring for your garment, will ensure its longevity. Additionally, they are naturally flame resistant, travel well, and are fairly wrinkle-proof when stored for the season. Cashmere cardigans are often tightly knit, which helps to prevent the fibers from fraying or breaking. This tight-knit also makes the cardigans less likely to pill or develop holes over time. Over time, if pilling or fuzz does become noticeable due to arm or elbow friction, there are special cashmere combs and other devices on the market to alleviate that.
Ideally, you can wear cashmere cardigans multiple times before cleaning is needed, especially if worn over a base layer. There are a few rules to keep in mind when washing knitwear, and it’s always wise to check the label for instructions. With cashmere, it’s advised to take the cardigan to a trusted dry cleaner. Otherwise, it can be hand washed in cold water with mild soap or shampoo for 20 minutes. Do not wring dry or place on a hanger as this can damage or stretch the fibers. Instead, gently squeeze out any residual water between two towels, lay flat, and reshape to dry. Afterward, fold and store it in a moth-proof drawer.
Italian cashmere cardigans are a popular choice among those who are looking for a high-quality, luxurious product. The combination of fine materials, traditional techniques, and strict quality control standards results in some of the finest cashmere cardigans in the world.
Most sweaters are pullovers with no buttons or zippers. Cardigans are a type of sweater with either a zipper or buttons on the front. Alternatively, the fronts can be left open without closures in the front and still be a cardigan. Like sweaters, cardigans are knitted or made of knitted fabric to wear over clothes as an additional layer.
Cardigans allow you to dress up or dress down with added warmth on cooler days or nights without requiring you to change into a sweater. The zipper or buttons allow you to easily slide the open sweater over your shirt without going into a dressing room. Common materials for cardigans include cotton, wool, and the most luxurious cashmere.
While hoodies and other sweaters can mess up your hair when you pull them over your head, a cardigan needs only to go over your arms. It's a great option for modesty in the workplace or to add a layer in casual settings like the beach. As they are an added layer, you can use them year-round. Many women like to keep one in their car, office, or travel bag to ensure they are always warm.
While all sweaters are cardigans, not all cardigans are sweaters. The difference equates to the style of closure. A sweater goes over your head, while a cardigan goes over your arms. The main difference between a cardigan and a sweater is that cardigans always have an opening. Both can come in various styles, but they are still separated by putting the sweater on yourself.
Cardigans are like knit jackets, they are usually made to be worn on top with only a coat potentially on top. Even though sweaters can be worn on top of each other, cardigans are usually worn on top of shirts. On the other hand, cardigans are more formal but also work paired down to a casual style. Finally, cardigans need a little more room than a sweater, as they are meant to be layered over other clothing. Most are a little wider in the arms for extra ease when putting the cardigan on over a top.
The Cardigan sweater got its name from James Thomas Brudenell, the 7th Earl of Cardigan. He was a lieutenant general in the British army. During the Crimean War, Lord Cardigan was known for leading the Charge of the Light Brigade. He was also known for wearing a short, woolen, sleeveless waistcoat to keep warm.
After the war, the useful piece of knitwear grew in popularity outside of the military, and cardigans became more common for men.
In the 1920s, French fashion designer Gabrielle "Coco" Chanel brought the cardigan to women's fashion, making it the popular option for a layer of warmth. She did not like pulling a sweater over her hair and messing up her perfectly coiffed locks, or the spray used to set the style!
From there, the cardigan blew up, gaining a strong fan base and continuing into later decades. In the late 1930s, the cardigan became a fashion icon and a sign of modernity for women. Women were going to college in numbers that had never been seen before, and they stopped wearing girdles.
College men wore cardigans to class, and soon the women did the same. Clothes were becoming more comfortable, and past societal norms were left in the past. Cardigans were still popular at the start of 1950, but in a very different style than in the 20s, moving from loose and frumpy to form-fitting and eye-catching. Women still love them today as they are a classic option that never goes out of style.
Before buying a cashmere sweater, check to ensure it's the softest material your hands have ever touched. If it's not, it's wool or a blend, and you do not want it unless your budget cannot afford real cashmere. Real cashmere gets softer with age, but it's so soft from the very first touch you will have a hard time resisting the urge to buy the store out!
Next, check to see if the fabric stretches. Blended cashmere does not bounce back to its original shape when pulled around. Also, when you pull cashmere, you can see how the threads are knitted together if you look closely. Low-quality cashmere has very loose see-through stitching.
Never buy any article of clothing without looking at the tag. Just because the sign says, cashmere does not mean it's one hundred percent cashmere. The Wool Products Labeling Act says that putting the wrong name on fake or blended cashmere is illegal. For this reason, always buy from a reputable brand to ensure the highest compliance and quality.
If you take good care of your cashmere cardigan, it will last for years, but the same is not true for the color or style. For expensive luxury items, stick to staple colors and styles such as neutrals and simple patterns. Finally, smell the fabric and ensure it does not smell like it came out of a chemical plant, as cashmere is a natural fabric.
Cashmere cardigans are perfect for any season as they are additional layers, not the main layer for your outfit. Add a cardigan to your winter outfit for added warmth, or pair it with a t-shirt on a cool summer night to protect against the wind. While sweaters are best for the winter because you will not be taking them off or having layers underneath, they are best for cooler seasons. Cardigans, especially with super soft cashmere, are far more versatile.
Cashmere cardigans work in practically all weather conditions. However, remember they are a layer and not the top layer. Always wear a coat or waterproof jacket for the rain, as water can make cashmere stiff. If you have a coat, the cashmere can still contribute to your warmth, especially in extreme temperatures.
As a knit fabric, cashmere will provide some resistance to wind but not as much as a waterproof jacket such as leather. A good cashmere cardigan can be mixed and matched with so many different pieces to increase your comfort levels no matter the weather. Just remember, this expensive fabric may be durable and capable of handling difficult weather, but it may shorten its lifespan, so handle it with care.
Cashmere clothes are a smart extravagance. While cashmere can cause hundreds of dollars, it's one of the few soft fabrics ready to last for decades. You cannot get around the fact that it is a luxury. But it is a luxury that pays off in the long run.
Cashmere might be the cheapest item in your closet if you think about how much your clothes cost per wear. When you move up from wool to cashmere, your whole wardrobe gets a boost. Even your oldest pencil skirt or simplest pair of jeans will feel new and stylish again. Cashmere offers the most value and style when shopping for sweaters and other knitwear for women.
The fashion world often compares cashmere to soft gold or diamond fiber by people who work in the industry. These names show how luxurious and expensive the fabric is in the fashion world. Cashmere comes from the undercoat of goats from the Kashmir mountain region with far superior fur. Collecting these fibers takes serious efforts during only the spring molting season.
As a result, the collectible amount usually stays far lower than the demand. Wool may offer warmth, but cashmere does, too, with an opulent softness not everyone can afford. One two-ply cashmere sweater takes at least two goats to make, but the wool from one sheep can be used to make four or five regular wool sweaters.
A good cashmere cardigan can cost between $300 and $400, a major investment. However, cashmere cardigan pairs with any outfit and style, adding an extra level of comfort and warmth, making it an indispensable part of your wardrobe. Some brands may offer lower prices but remember, cashmere comes in multiple grades, and higher quality often costs more, especially with this fabric.
A good cashmere sweater for women might cost twice or even three times as much as a good wool sweater, but for a good reason. Wool feels scratchy to most people even though it provides incredible warmth. A step up to a cashmere cardigan provides both warmth and unbelievable softness no other fabric can offer.
Cashmere keeps you warm without making you too hot because it's such a light and fine fabric. Additionally, cashmere lasts decades with proper care making it a smart investment if you buy timeless styles and colors. Not many clothing items last long enough to pass down to future generations, but cashmere can.
While a luxury, cashmere just makes sense for its incredible qualities. Cardigans protect your hairstyles while still adding warm layers to your outfits. Cashmere even transitions to all four seasons and works dressed up for an elegant evening out or paired with jeans and leather boots. Add perfection to your closet with one of our luxury cardigans made in Italy for elegant women who want a touch of sophistication in their wardrobe.
CONSCIOUSLY CRAFTED
Ethically made in small batches by artisans paid fair, living wages.
SEAMLESS SHOPPING
Shop now and pay later. Also, enjoy free shipping and returns on all orders.
CLOUD COMFORT
A combination of luxury materials and cutting edge technology to offer lasting comfort.
HANDMADE IN ITALY
Authentic Italian craftmanship bringing you true quality, timeless essentials.
CONSCIOUSLY CRAFTED
Ethically made in small batches by artisans paid fair, living wages.
SEAMLESS SHOPPING
Shop now and pay later. Also, enjoy free shipping and returns on all orders.
CLOUD COMFORT
We pair luxury materials with cutting edge technology to offer lasting comfort.
HANDMADE IN ITALY
Authentic Italian craftmanship bringing you true quality, timeless essentials.
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