Cashmere jumpers & cardigans

Second-hand cashmere jumpers and cardigans, every one measured flat across the bust and down the length, from John Lewis, Brora, Repeat, Pure Collection, House of Bruar, F&F, J.Jill and the labels that only ever sold cashmere. Women’s pieces mostly, men’s when we have them; the line above shows what is in stock today.

Cashmere is a fibre, not a quality in itself, so each listing says what the care label says: 100% cashmere or a blend, and the ply where the label gives it. We check for pilling under the arms, thinning at the elbows and any repairs, and say what we find.

How they fit: the bust is given round, so compare it with a jumper you own laid flat and doubled; knits with give are noted. The size on the listing is the size the piece fits on our model, a UK 8, not a conversion.

Which brands run small and which run roomy, measured piece by piece, is on knitwear sizing by brand; what to look for before you buy is in second-hand cashmere: brands and prices.

How do I wash a second-hand cashmere jumper? By hand or on a wool cycle at 30, with a wool wash, no wringing, dried flat on a towel away from heat. Pilling comes off with a cashmere comb; it is not a flaw in the fibre.

Does vintage cashmere pill more than new? Often less. A jumper that has been worn and washed for years has shed its loose short fibres; what is left is the longer staple. Check the underarms and cuffs on the photos.