As an apparel testing professional with over 10 years of experience evaluating luxury fabrics and construction methods, I‘ve developed an eye for spotting quality craftsmanship. Throughout my cashmere clothing investigations spanning thousands of products, one brand consistently rises above the rest in marrying elite fabrication with impeccable design: 360 Cashmere.
Specializing exclusively in cashmere knitwear for over a decade, 360 Cashmere offers a breadth of options unmatched by competitors. After thoroughly assessing the brand‘s manufacturing techniques, fabric sourcing, sustainability efforts and testing many items myself, I confidently deem their pieces well worth the investment.
Keep reading for my fully comprehensive review of 360 Cashmere based on in-depth evaluation metrics and hands-on wearing trials. I‘ll provide style recommendations to help you determine which options best suit your needs and budget.
360 Cashmere Background
Industry veterans Leslie and Bruce Gifford launched 360 Cashmere in 2009 after selling their prior venture, SWEATERS.com. Identifying an underserved market craving refined, minimalist cashmere garb, the couple centered their new brand around ethical production methods and Inner Mongolian silk-cashmere – considered the world‘s premium fabric.
Over the past 12+ years, 360 Cashmere has experienced remarkable 25-30% annual sales growth through word-of-mouth and social media. They‘ve expanded distribution across over 300 boutiques while amassing 30.9k Instagram followers.
The brand retains its headquarters in Santa Monica, California while contracting with the same family-owned Italian factory since inception. This stability enables 360 Cashmere to oversees quality control and provide full supply chain transparency.
Assessing the 360 Cashmere Difference
While myriad apparel brands tout luxury cashmere wares, few measure up to 360 Cashmere‘s meticulous standards. Their fabric and manufacturing processes genuinely reflect premium construction unseen among most competitors.
Below I detail what distinguishes this brand from the rest based on my professional evaluation criteria:
Specialized Focus – They exclusively create cashmere knitwear rather than spreading thin across multiple fabrics. This enables exhaustive R&D around optimal cashmere types.
Elite Mongolian Cashmere – 360 Cashmere uses only 15-18 gauge Inner Mongolian cashmere harvested during peak winter months for maximum insulation and durability. The region‘s extreme climate enables the goats to grow ultra-fine undercoats rare elsewhere.
Proprietary Blends – 360 Cashmere combines its Mongolian cashmere with Italian yarns to create exclusive fabric innovating with enhanced consistency, vibrancy and resilience compared to single-origin cashmere.
Responsible Sourcing – Materials come from sustainably focused Mongolian herders practicing ethical animal care and environmental stewardship principles. This promotes healthy, well-treated livestock yielding superior fleece.
Eco-Conscious Production – From dyeing through finishing, their Italian factory adheres to local regulations surrounding responsible water use, energy efficiency and waste management.
Handcrafted Quality – Rather than hazardous mass factory assembly lines, small teams of specialized artisans handle each garment individually from start to finish. This enables meticulous monitoring for perfection.
Stylish Originality – In-house designers focus exclusively on developing cutting-edge cashmere knitwear styles you won‘t find replicated elsewhere. Expect unique textures, vibrant colors and perfect fits.
Rigorous Inspections – Every cashmere lot undergoes 14+ quality assurance checks ensuring consistency and catch defects early. Finished pieces get approved by the head seamstress before shipping.
Through each production method, 360 Cashmere lives up to luxury standards matching brands with price tags two to three times higher. They pour incredible attention into perfecting every detail while pioneering industry improvements.
360 Cashmere Product Range Overview
Across 300+ available styles encompassing knitwear essentials and trend-driven statement pieces, 360 Cashmere empowers luxurious versatility however you dress.
Their expansive product selection includes:
- Sweaters and Cardigans
- Pullovers, Hoodies and Tees
- Dresses and Rompers
- Vests, Capes and Ponchos
- Scarves, Shawls and Wraps
- Hats, Gloves and Accessories
Noteworthy for travelers or multi-season shoppers, 360 Cashmere designs most items for year-round wear. Lightweight Italian merino blends make their collection ideal for layering 365 days across environments ranging from offices to airports.
Rather than limiting yourself to bulky winter knits only viable a few weeks annually, 360 Cashmere empowers affordable luxury radiating sophistication all year long.
Their size inclusive range from XXS-XL further enables flattering, comfortable cashmere enjoyment for all body types. Robust fall/winter options carry slightly higher 15-18 gauge thickness to provide cozy insulation without restrictive bulk.
But refined cashmere pieces spanning 10-14 gauges promote effortless lightweight layering potential amid spring and summer. From business meetings to beach vacations, their breathable cashmere keeps you perfectly covered yet comfy in any setting or season!
Below I detail top-rated 360 Cashmere items that newcomers and cashmere connoisseurs alike will cherish across their wardrobe.
Standout 360 Cashmere Styles for Women
Charli Cashmere Cutout Sweater – Subtle Sophistication
The Charli sweater modernizes cold weather essentials with its delicate neckline cutout framed by ribbed trim. Offering discreet skin exposure, this cropped fitted sweater makes a subtly alluring upgrade over plain turtlenecks.
It retains the same elegant moxie expected from 360 Cashmere while introducing an element of fluidity and modern edge through the graceful neckline shape.
When assessing fabric density, the Charli sweater hits that sweet spot between lightweight enough for active days yet satisfyingly substantial to combat briskness. I particularly appreciate the cropped hem – an on-trend silhouette that flatters waist contours without leaving you exposed.
Whether heading into high-stakes business meetings or anticipating a night out, consider the Charli sweater your cold weather dates‘ perfect plus-one!
$311, available in Black, Navy Mix and Heather Gray
Galen Belted Cashmere Midi Dress – Understated Splendor
Finding an LBD alternative that truly wows yet remains office-appropriate proves challenging. Cue the Galen belted cashmere midi dress! This polished wardrobe staple delivers discreet allure through ruched waistline gathering and a collarbone-flaunting neckline.
By incorporating their signature Mongolian cashmere, 360 Cashmere ensures remarkable softness without transparency issues like flimsy synthetics. The Galen dress expertly conceals via long sleeves and a midi hemline while accentuating your best assets.
As colder months hit, simply layer it under blazers or leather jackets with opaque tights or leggings. For temperate evenings or transitional seasons, go solo with sandals or booties. Sophistication guaranteed anywhere you wear it!
$598, available in Black, Sand Beige, Navy Mix and Light Heather Gray
Cara Oversized Cashmere Turtleneck – Effortless Splendor
Nothing beats a slouchy oversized sweater when you want to look put-together while maximizing coziness. The Cara oversized cashmere turtleneck perfects the balance between polished and laidback luxury.
Meticulously knitted from soothing 15-gauge Mongolian cashmere, it delivers coveted featherweight softness certain to become addictive over long wear. Though relaxed through the body, side ribbing prevents total shapelessness for a curves-skimming silhouette.
The Cara sweater allows you to dress casually without compromising luxury. It layers seamlessly under leather jackets and shearlings while feeling heavenly sans layers during early winter. Available in versatile neutrals, expect it to become your cool weather security blanket for years on end!
$348, available in Black Mix, Marble Gray Mix, Sandstone Mix and Light Heather Gray
Standout 360 Cashmere Styles for Men
Kelson Full-Zip Cashmere Hoodie – Refined Relaxation
Cashmere hoodies frequently read sloppy, but the Kelson version from 360 Cashmere will make you ditch those ratty cotton pullovers. Flaunting their signature 14-gauge Mongolian cashmere, expect divine featherweight coziness free of bulk.
Designer details like the complementing drawstring and zipper colors elevate this hoodie beyond standard gymwear into premium loungewear. The discreet zip pocket grants storage without marring the streamlined silhouette.
Layer the Kelson hoodie over button-downs for polished comfort commuting or traveling in cooler months. But it also wears equally well solo when off-duty or relaxing weekends away. Wherever it goes, be prepared for nonstop cashmere comfort that perfectly toes the line between casual luxury and athletic practicality!
$448, available Heather Gray Mix with black accents
Becker 1/4 Zip Cashmere Sweater – Sporty Sophistication
Quarters zips frequently read too juvenile, but the Becker sweater modernizes this style with its perfect marriage between relaxed luxury and athletic edges. Soft as a cloud yet structured enough for outdoors activity, it makes a versatile year-round topper.
Strategically placed merino wool lends enhanced breathability, shape retention and durability over 100% cashmere, while retaining anti-odor and temperature regulating qualities. The contrast neckline and cuffs add crisp visual dimension that polishes up everyday attire in an instant.
From country clubs to camping trips and everything between, expect the Becker 1/4 zip sweater to slot seamlessly into any setting. Pull it atop tees or button-downs whenever you require instant refinement without restrictive stiffness!
$448, available in Charcoal Gray and Navy
Alec Cashmere Cardigan – Contemporary Classic
A well-fitting cardigan feels like an extension of yourself rather than botchy outer layer. The Alec cashmere cardigan masters that exceptional versatility as the ultimate shirt supplement to instantly pull together casual to formal wear.
Impeccably fashioned from lightweight 14-gauge Mongolian-Italian cashmere, it retains structure beautifully while granting unrestricted movement. The easy snap front closure enables fuss-free venting adjustments.
Ideal for temperate weather or indoor conditions, consider this the most-reached-for cardigan in your closet once acquired!
$348, available Heather Gray, Olive Mix and Navy
360 Cashmere Brand Review Conclusions
After meticulous evaluation dissecting all facets of their products and practices, I definitively rank 360 Cashmere among luxury cashmere‘s finest manufacturers. Through pioneering production methods centered around responsibly sourced elite Mongolian cashmere, this brand stays at the industry‘s cutting edge while never compromising ethical values.
Their size inclusive sizing, trend-conscious silhouettes accommodating year-round wear and meticulous quality control cement them as a sound investment guaranteed to deliver lasting satisfaction across all metrics. Compared to competing labels with substantially higher price points, 360 Cashmere exceeds expectations while offering incredible value.
If you seek luxe, comfy cashmere essentials perfect for everything from travel to date nights to relaxed weekends, I wholeheartedly recommend making 360 Cashmere your brand of choice. They empower versatile, sustainable closet staples guaranteed to bring joy and confidence year after year.
For additional recommendations and tips to identify your personal perfect 360 Cashmere matches, contact me anytime! I‘m always happy to help fellow cashmere enthusiasts discover items that tick all their boxes.
