You probably best know mohair from the grungy cardigans Kurt Cobain wore in the ’90s—likely made in the ’60s and thrifted. And like clockwork, they’re back another 30 years later. Mohair is a soft, luxurious material spun from goat wool that can be brushed to your desired fuzziness. Cashmere, wool, and artificial materials can achieve the same shaggy finish, too.
The beauty of mohair sweaters is that they’re a breeze to style; just wear them how you’d throw on any other knit this time of year. With straight-leg jeans and leather shoes—like loafers, ballet flats, or pumps—they’re a textured alternative to the thinner, quieter knits in your fall capsule. They also hold their own with louder bottoms like sequin skirts and leopard-print pants, dialing up the personality without overpowering your statement pieces. And throw one over a fall dress if you need some extra coverage that’s cute enough for brunch and the office.
Best mohair sweaters
Each of these just-oversized-enough sweaters combines mohair with other fibers—including wool and polyamide—for softness and stretch. Combined with a trendy silhouette, the fuzzy material lends any look a relaxed elegance, making these picks the GOAT. (Sorry.)
Best brushed cashmere sweaters
Cashmere, another fiber spun from goat wool, makes just about the softest knits you’ll find on the market—and they can be brushed to mimic mohair. Unlike mohair, which is often mixed with manmade materials at this price point, each of these picks is woven from 100% cashmere and will last for years to come with proper care.
Best fuzzy sweaters
Want something, ahem, cheaper than genuine mohair or cashmere? These gems achieve the same look by blending wool with polyamide and elastane (read: they’re not itchy). Pay special attention to that cropped jumper from Sézane, a brand beloved by Selena Gomez and Kate Middleton, and that cozy cardigan in a trendy leopard print from Massimo Dutti.
