Affordable Cashmere Dupes Are Taking Over TikTok—Here's How to Choose a Quality Piece

Whether you opt for a sweater, a scarf, or another innovative knit piece, cashmere is a truly timeless luxury. There’s nothing that feels quite as lush as slipping into soft, freshly laundered cashmere, whether it’s a brand new piece or a treasured favorite. Cashmere also fits snugly into the quiet luxury trend—which has led to a boom of chic cashmere brands but also means the ultra-soft fabric is often a splurge. While it’s worthwhile to invest in quality apparel that lasts for years, it’s not always realistic to drop hundreds on a single piece. Enter: Cashmere dupes, a.k.a. fabric innovations that promise comparable softness at a lower price point. Ahead, experts reveal how these alternatives compare to genuine cashmere, as well as their favorite shopping tricks and product picks.

Meet the Experts

• Margaret Frey is a fiber science professor at Cornell University.

• Holly Katz is a personal stylist and host of the Fashion Crimes podcast.

• Aissata Kourouma is a New York City-based fashion content creator.

What Is Cashmere?

Cashmere is a type of wool collected from cashmere and pashmina goats. It’s composed of thin, delicate fibers with a remarkably resilient structure, according to fiber science professor Margaret Frey. The fabric is also fantastic at retaining its shape—so your beloved cashmere sweaters are less likely to sag and distort over time.

Experience-wise, what makes cashmere knitwear stand out from the pack is that it's soft to the touch and lightweight while still keeping you cozy. Also notable? The soft, natural fibers are gentle on sensitive skin, as content creator Aissata Kourouma tells us.

What Are Cashmere Dupes?

It’s no surprise that brands would want to imitate such a highly coveted fabric as cashmere, especially since the main factor that keeps many people from buying it is the cost. Retailers like Gap and Target have recently introduced their own, incredibly accessible takes on cashmere (with rave TikTok reviews). We’re no stranger to a good luxury dupe—and sometimes, these “stealth wealth” alternatives can come close to the real deal.

While you should always do your research to know what you're getting before you add to cart, “dupe culture has evolved in the best way possible,” Kourouma says. “A lot of high street brands, like Mango and H&M, are doing a better job at giving customers the luxury they deserve at a price that’s also attainable.”

Cashmere vs. Alternatives

When comparing cashmere and lower-priced alternatives, fiber quality is usually one of the biggest differences. Cotton-blend sweaters often lose their shape and droop at the sleeves, hem, and neckline after washing, Frey warns. The fabric could also degrade or pill at a faster rate, so it's up to you whether you're looking to invest in a luxury piece that will last for ages or would rather try a more accessible alternative that will give you that cashmere look and feel for now but may need replacement sooner.

You’ll also want to consider the difference in care routines. Sweaters made from 100% cashmere should also be dry-cleaned or hand-washed to avoid damaging the delicate fibers, personal stylist Holly Katz advises. You’ll have a bit more wiggle room when caring for cashmere dupes, which we’d definitely consider a plus if efficiency is your goal.

What to Look For When Shopping

Always plan an in-person shopping trip when searching for luxe cashmere alternatives, especially if you haven't tried the brand's options before. While most retailers list the fabric content online, Katz says it’s tough to discern the exact texture and quality from photos alone.

To snag a cashmere lookalike, search for labels that say “cashmere-like” or “fine knit.” The fabric should be soft with a smooth finish that’s free of stiff fibers or loose threads, Kourouma says.

Are Cashmere Dupes Worth It?

Cashmere dupes can be a worthwhile purchase if genuine cashmere is out of your price range and you're realistic about your expectations. “It all just depends on what you’d like to pay for,” Katz says. She likens the difference to vegan leather versus animal leather: Dupes can somewhat replicate the look and feel of a luxurious cashmere knit without the hefty price tag. However, knitwear that’s not 100% cashmere won’t retain its integrity in the long-term. If you’re looking for true longevity that's a bit more accessible than many luxury options, consider skipping the alternatives altogether for a mid-priced 100% cashmere piece (like this one, $80, from UNIQLO).

The Best Cashmere Dupes to Shop

If you've decided to try a cashmere alternative, you have a wide range of options to fit your aesthetic and price point. Whether you want an everyday piece or an interesting cut or color, you're sure to find a sweater (or other piece) that you'll love.

The Final Takeaway

Cashmere dupes are an accessible way to expand your winter wardrobe with minimal damage to your wallet, making them a great option for anyone looking for a soft, luxe-feeling knit at a fraction of the cost. However, experts warn that you should always shop in-person and keep your expectations realistic. “Style is very personal, and I’m a firm believer that you don’t have to spend a lot of money to be stylish,” Kourouma says. “Dupe culture can be a good approach to retail, but still be careful.”

Up Next: Inside TikTok’s Controversial Dupe Culture

Read the original article on Byrdie.