Cashmere is often hailed as a winter staple—but the truth is, this luxurious fiber can be enjoyed year-round. From lightweight spring layers to cozy winter essentials, the key to wearing cashmere in every season lies in choosing the right fiber weight, gauge, and style. At Onward, we’ve spent years crafting cashmere pieces that transition seamlessly across seasons, balancing warmth, breathability, and timeless design.

In this comprehensive 2500-word guide, we’ll break down how to choose cashmere for spring, summer, fall, and winter—covering critical factors like micron count, yarn weight, knitting gauge, and style. We’ll also share expert tips on caring for your seasonal cashmere pieces and highlight Onward’s top picks for each time of year. Whether you’re building a versatile wardrobe or looking to invest in pieces that last, this guide will help you make informed choices that align with your style and climate.

First: The Key Cashmere Terms You Need to Know

Before diving into seasonal recommendations, let’s clarify the essential terms that define cashmere’s warmth, weight, and feel. These factors will be your compass when choosing cashmere for any season:

• Micron count: The thickness of individual cashmere fibers (measured in microns). Finer fibers (14–16 microns) are softer and more breathable, making them ideal for warm seasons. Slightly thicker fibers (16–19 microns) offer more warmth without sacrificing softness—perfect for cooler weather. Onward’s core collection uses 14–19 micron Grade A cashmere, ensuring quality across all seasons.
• Yarn weight: The thickness of the yarn used to knit the garment. Lightweight yarn (2-ply) is thin and breathable (spring/summer). Medium-weight yarn (4-ply) balances warmth and versatility (fall/spring). Heavyweight yarn (6-ply+) is thick and insulating (winter).
• Knitting gauge: The number of stitches per inch (higher = denser fabric). High-gauge cashmere (14–16 gauge) is lightweight, smooth, and drapey—great for layering. Low-gauge cashmere (10–12 gauge) is thicker and more structured—ideal for cold weather.
• Fiber length: Longer fibers (32–38mm) are more durable and less prone to pilling, a key consideration for pieces you’ll wear frequently (like year-round layers). Onward sources only long-fiber Mongolian cashmere to ensure longevity.

Now that you’re familiar with the basics, let’s explore how to apply these to each season.

Spring Cashmere: Lightweight Layers for Mild Weather

Spring weather is unpredictable—chilly mornings, warm afternoons, and sudden rain showers demand versatile pieces that can be layered and removed easily. The goal for spring cashmere is breathability, lightness, and versatility.

Key Features to Look For

• Micron count: 14–16 microns (ultra-fine fibers for breathability without sacrificing softness).
• Yarn weight: 2-ply (lightweight, thin enough to layer under a jacket or over a tee).
• Gauge: 14–16 gauge (dense but lightweight, with a smooth drape).
• Style: Cropped cardigans, thin scarves, short-sleeve sweaters, or lightweight pullovers—pieces that are easy to pack or tie around the waist.
• Color: Pastels (blush, mint, lavender), soft neutrals (ivory, beige), or light brights (sky blue)—spring-friendly hues that pair well with jeans, dresses, and skirts.

Onward’s Top Spring Cashmere Picks

Our spring collection is designed for layering and versatility, featuring ultra-fine Mongolian cashmere that keeps you comfortable from morning to night:

• 14 Micron 2-Ply Cashmere Cardigan: Cropped, lightweight, and available in soft pastels. Perfect for layering over a floral dress or basic tee. The 16-gauge knit ensures it’s thin enough to wear under a blazer but warm enough for chilly mornings.
• Lightweight Cashmere Scarf: A thin, 2-ply scarf in neutral or pastel tones. It adds a touch of luxury to any outfit without weighing you down—ideal for covering your neck on windy days.
• Short-Sleeve Cashmere Pullover: A fitted, 14-gauge pullover in ivory or blush. Pair it with high-waisted jeans or a midi skirt for a polished spring look.

Spring Cashmere Styling Tips

 – Layer a cropped cashmere cardigan over a silk camisole and wide-leg pants for a chic office look.

 – Tie a lightweight cashmere scarf around your neck or bag for a pop of color.

 – Wear a short-sleeve cashmere pullover with a denim jacket and sneakers for a casual weekend outfit.

Summer Cashmere: Breathable Luxury for Warm Days

Many people assume cashmere is too warm for summer—but with the right specifications, it’s actually a perfect summer fabric.

According to Scientific American, fine animal fibers like cashmere can outperform synthetics in warm weather due to superior moisture management and breathability.

Cashmere’s natural fibers are breathable and moisture-wicking, keeping you cool and comfortable even in warm weather. The goal for summer cashmere is ultra-lightweight, breathable, and minimal.

Key Features to Look For

• Micron count: 14–15 microns (the finest cashmere fibers, often called “king fiber” for their softness and breathability).
• Yarn weight: 1-ply or 2-ply (the lightest possible yarn, thin enough to be semi-sheer).
• Gauge: 16–18 gauge (ultra-dense knit that’s lightweight and drapey, preventing transparency while staying cool).
• Style: Tank tops, camisoles, lightweight wraps, or loose-fitting pullovers—pieces that are easy to wear alone or as a light layer for air-conditioned spaces (offices, restaurants).
• Color: Light, neutral tones (white, ivory, sand) or bright, summery hues (coral, lemon, turquoise)—colors that reflect sunlight and feel fresh.

Onward’s Top Summer Cashmere Picks

Our summer cashmere collection is crafted from the finest 14–15 micron Mongolian cashmere, designed to keep you cool and stylish all season long:

• 14 Micron 1-Ply Cashmere Camisole: A slip-on camisole with thin straps and a relaxed fit. It’s semi-sheer (perfect for layering over a nude bra) and pairs beautifully with high-waisted shorts, skirts, or wide-leg pants.
• Lightweight Cashmere Wrap: A large, thin wrap in a bright summery color. Use it as a shawl for air-conditioned offices, a cover-up at the beach, or a scarf for evening walks.
• Loose-Fit 2-Ply Cashmere Pullover: A breezy, oversized pullover with short sleeves. It’s lightweight enough to wear alone on mild summer days and pairs well with denim cutoffs or linen pants.

Summer Cashmere Care Tips

 – Wash summer cashmere gently by hand or on a delicate cycle in a mesh bag (use Onward’s pH-neutral Cashmere Wash to preserve softness).

 – Avoid hanging summer cashmere (it can stretch the thin fibers)—lay flat to dry in a cool, shaded area.

 – Store summer cashmere in a breathable cotton bag during the off-season to protect it from moths.

Fall Cashmere: Versatile Layers for Cooler Temperatures

Fall is cashmere’s time to shine—cooler temperatures call for warmth, but you still need versatility to adapt to changing weather. The goal for fall cashmere is medium weight, layering-friendly, and transitional.

Key Features to Look For

• Micron count: 16–18 microns (slightly thicker than summer cashmere for warmth, but still soft and breathable).
• Yarn weight: 4-ply (medium weight, perfect for layering over tees or under jackets).
• Gauge: 12–14 gauge (balanced density—warm enough for cool days but not too thick for layering).
• Style: Crewnecks, V-necks, turtlenecks (thin ones), cardigans (mid-length), or cashmere-blend socks—pieces that can be mixed and matched with other fall staples.
• Color: Earthy tones (tan, olive, rust), deep neutrals (charcoal, navy), or rich jewel tones (burgundy, emerald)—classic fall hues that pair well with leather jackets, denim, and boots.

Onward’s Top Fall Cashmere Picks

Our fall collection balances warmth and versatility, featuring medium-weight Mongolian cashmere that transitions seamlessly from day to night:

• 16 Micron 4-Ply Cashmere Crewneck: Our best-selling crewneck, available in earthy tones. It’s medium weight—perfect for wearing alone on mild fall days or layering under a leather jacket. The long-fiber cashmere resists pilling, even with frequent wear.
• Thin Cashmere Turtleneck: A fitted, 14-gauge turtleneck in charcoal or burgundy. It’s thin enough to layer under a blazer or sweater vest but warm enough to wear alone on cooler days.
• Mid-Length Cashmere Cardigan: A 4-ply cardigan with a relaxed fit. It’s ideal for layering over a tee and jeans or a dress—add a belt to cinch the waist for a more polished look.

Fall Cashmere Styling Tips

 – Layer a cashmere crewneck under a denim jacket and pair with chinos for a casual fall look.

 – Wear a thin cashmere turtleneck under a blazer with tailored pants for a chic office outfit.

 – Pair a mid-length cashmere cardigan with a midi dress and ankle boots for a cozy, feminine look.

Winter Cashmere: Warm & Cozy Essentials for Cold Weather

Winter is when cashmere truly delivers—its natural insulating properties keep you warm without the bulk of wool or down. The goal for winter cashmere is heavy weight, warmth, and comfort.

Key Features to Look For

• Micron count: 16–19 microns (thicker fibers for maximum warmth, still soft against the skin).
• Yarn weight: 6-ply or 8-ply (heavyweight yarn that’s thick and insulating).
• Gauge: 10–12 gauge (thick, structured knit that traps heat).
• Style: Chunky sweaters, thick turtlenecks, cardigans with pockets, scarves (thick), hats, and gloves—pieces that prioritize warmth and comfort.
• Color: Rich neutrals (black, charcoal, cream), deep jewel tones (plum, sapphire), or festive hues (red, gold)—warm colors that brighten cold winter days.

Onward’s Top Winter Cashmere Picks

Our winter collection is designed for maximum warmth and comfort, featuring heavyweight Mongolian cashmere that keeps you cozy even in freezing temperatures:

• 18 Micron 6-Ply Cashmere Chunky Sweater: A thick, oversized sweater with a cable-knit design. It’s perfect for wearing with leggings or jeans on cold days—pair with ankle boots and a beanie for a cozy look.
• Thick Cashmere Turtleneck: A 12-gauge turtleneck in black or cream. It’s thick enough to wear alone in mild winter weather or under a coat for extra warmth. The high neck protects your neck from the cold.
• Cashmere Scarf & Hat Set: A matching set made from 8-ply cashmere. The scarf is large enough to wrap around your neck multiple times, and the hat fits snugly to keep your head warm.

Winter Cashmere Care Tips

 – Wash winter cashmere less often—air it out between wears to refresh it. When washing, use a mild detergent and hand wash or machine wash on a delicate cycle.

 – Avoid using fabric softener (it can make cashmere less insulating)—instead, add a tablespoon of white vinegar to the final rinse to boost softness.

 – Store winter cashmere in a breathable container with cedar blocks to repel moths during the off-season.

Year-Round Cashmere: Investment Pieces That Transcend Seasons

While seasonal cashmere is essential, investing in a few year-round pieces will maximize your wardrobe’s versatility. These pieces are designed to be layered or worn alone, adapting to any season with minimal effort.

Medium-weight V-necks and lightweight cardigans adapt easily with layering. From a sustainability perspective, UN Environment Programme (UNEP) emphasizes that long-lasting garments reduce overall environmental impact through extended use cycles.

Choosing versatile, durable cashmere aligns both with wardrobe efficiency and responsible consumption.

Onward’s Top Year-Round Cashmere Picks

• 16 Micron 4-Ply Cashmere V-Neck: A fitted V-neck in ivory or navy. It’s medium weight—wear it alone in spring/fall, under a jacket in winter, or over a camisole in summer.
• Lightweight Cashmere Cardigan (Mid-Length): A 2-ply cardigan in black or beige. It’s thin enough to layer over a tee in spring/summer and thick enough to wear under a coat in winter.
• Cashmere Blend Socks: A blend of cashmere and merino wool. They’re warm enough for winter but breathable enough for fall—perfect for wearing with boots or sneakers year-round.

How to Care for Cashmere Across Seasons (Onward Expert Tips)

Proper care is key to extending the life of your cashmere pieces, regardless of the season. Here are our top tips:

• Wash gently: Use a mild, pH-neutral detergent (like Onward’s Cashmere Wash) and hand wash or machine wash on a delicate cycle in a mesh bag. Avoid hot water (it causes shrinkage) and over-washing (it weakens fibers).
• Dry correctly: Never put cashmere in the dryer—lay flat to dry in a cool, shaded area. Reshape the garment while it’s damp to maintain its fit.
• Prevent pilling: Use a cashmere comb to remove pills gently (avoid pulling them). Choose long-fiber cashmere (like Onward’s) to reduce pilling in the first place.
• Store properly: Fold cashmere (don’t hang it—hanging stretches shoulders) and store in a breathable container (cotton bag, linen box) with cedar blocks or lavender sachets to repel moths. Avoid plastic bags (they trap moisture).

Final Thoughts: Building a Seasonal Cashmere Wardrobe

Cashmere is a versatile, luxurious fiber that can be enjoyed year-round—all you need to do is choose the right pieces for each season. By focusing on micron count, yarn weight, and style, you can build a cashmere wardrobe that transitions seamlessly from spring to winter, maximizing your investment and ensuring you look stylish in every season.

At Onward, we’re committed to crafting cashmere pieces that combine quality, versatility, and timeless design. Whether you’re looking for a lightweight summer camisole, a medium-weight fall crewneck, or a heavyweight winter sweater, our collection has something for every season and style.

Ready to build your seasonal cashmere wardrobe? Explore Onward’s Cashmere Collection today and discover the luxury of year-round cashmere.