A great cashmere sweater is one of those pieces you notice in the first ten seconds and then never want to take off. The appeal is warmth without bulk, along with a softness that gets better with wear. Not all cashmere is equal, though, and a few simple checks tell you a lot. Feel the fabric between your fingers. It should be smooth and dense, not fuzzy or thin, and it should spring back when you press it. Look at the knit itself, since a tighter, evenly spaced weave resists pilling far better than a loose one. Shape is a matter of taste. A classic crewneck goes under jackets, a turtleneck keeps out the wind, and an oversized pullover is made for lounging and weekends. Colors like oatmeal, charcoal, navy and cream are the easiest to wear, while richer tones such as forest green or chocolate brown add variety without feeling loud, and every one of them holds up well over many seasons.

Because cashmere is so quiet, it works with nearly everything. Wear a crewneck over a collared shirt with straight jeans, or tuck a fine turtleneck into tailored trousers for a clean, polished look. An oversized pullover is perfect with leggings or a slip skirt and boots, and it looks lovely under a wool coat. Play with proportion, a slim knit with wide leg pants or a slouchy one with a fitted skirt. Keep accessories light, since the fabric itself is the statement. A scarf in a similar tone adds depth without competing. Care is what keeps it looking new. Wash it by hand in cool water with a gentle detergent, press out the water without wringing, and dry it flat. Fold it instead of hanging, and use a fabric shaver sparingly to remove the odd pill. Treated well, a single sweater can stay soft and shapely for many years.