Man, I love cashmere. It’s so warm and soft. But let’s face it, cashmere is expensive. Very expensive. I’m not saying you shouldn’t own a cashmere sweater or two, but I understand it’s tough to fill your closet with a dozen. Honestly, in my opinion, cashmere isn’t worth it unless you’re going to buy high quality cashmere. The more expensive, quality fibers create such a better product that I think lower quality cashmere is simply overspending just to say your sweater is cashmere. So what’s a guy to do? You want to stay warm in Autumn and Winter. You want to look good too, and sometimes thick, chunky wool sweaters don’t work. Maybe you want to wear a sweater under a sport coat, or maybe you want to layer up. I would like to suggest the Merino wool sweater. Merino wool is thin and warm like cashmere. It layers beautifully, and the sweaters come in an incredible variety of colors. I will admit that Merino wool is not as soft as cashmere, but it’s plenty soft enough, and costs about a third of high end, quality cashmere.
Merino wool is so versatile too. I think when most guys hear “merino wool sweater” they think of the classic V-neck sweater like this one from Bonobos. I love this style, but keep in mind that Merino wool can be used in several other ways. Check out the four other options below to give yourself an idea of how versatile Merino wool sweaters can be.
Shawl Collar Merino Wool Sweater from Ralph Lauren
My wife bought me my first shawl collar sweater a few years ago, and I have never regretted it. The shawl collar adds the perfect amount of warmth, texture and detail, above and beyond your traditional V-neck
Cardigan Merino Wool Sweater from J. Crew
I love cardigan sweaters, but, unfortunately, I cannot wear them. Rather, I choose not to wear them. I think they look best on slimmer guys, and I am a little too broad-shouldered and barrel-chested. I have always believed in wearing clothes that work for your body type, and this is no exception. However, for you slender guys out there, this is a great look. The buttons bring fantastic detail to the typical plain front of your sweaters. Cardigans are also excellent for layered outfits.
Quarter Zip Merino Wool Sweater from Nordstrom
Nothing puts a little more edge in a piece of clothing like hardware, and that includes zippers. Like the shawl collar, the zipper on a quarter zip sweater is a great way to throw a little something extra in a V-neck sweater.
Fair Isle Merino Wool Sweater from Brooks Brothers
Oh, how I love Fair Isle sweaters. The problem is that sometimes they’re too warm and cozy. Not that that’s a bad thing. It’s just that sometimes I like a lighter sweater. This wonderful sweater from Brooks Brothers is a great compromise.
I love cashmere as much as anyone, but it really can be cost-prohibitive. A great way to get that warmth and thinness of cashmere at a more approachable price is Merino wool. Next time you’re in the market for a new sweater or two, take a look at some of these options. As always, we would love to hear any feedback you have, so please leave a comment or connect with us through Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest or Google+.
Regards,
