When you’re in search of cashmere that feels incredibly soft and luxurious, comparing Johnstons of Elgin vs Ralph Lauren reveals a significant difference. Each brand’s cashmere has its own unique feel. Many consumers prioritize more than just softness; they also consider quality, brand reputation, and the craftsmanship behind the cashmere. In fact, over 49% of shoppers prefer fashion that is ethically produced. It’s essential to determine which brand feels the best, offers the most comfort, and provides the best value for your money.
Key Takeaways
Johnstons of Elgin has made cashmere for over 200 years. They focus on tradition and making high-quality products. Ralph Lauren cashmere feels softer. People who like comfort and style may prefer it. Cashmere thickness matters. Johnstons of Elgin cashmere is warmer. Ralph Lauren cashmere feels lighter. Look at fiber length to see how long it will last. Longer fibers make cashmere smoother and last longer. Both brands care about the environment. Johnstons of Elgin works harder to use fair practices. Both brands can get pilling. Thicker cashmere usually pills less. You must take care of cashmere to keep it nice. Hand wash it and lay it flat to dry so it keeps its shape. Try both brands to see which one feels best on your skin and matches your style.
Brand Introduce
Johnstons of Elgin
If you want great cashmere, Johnstons of Elgin is special. The company started in Scotland in 1797. They have made cashmere for over 200 years. Every piece shows their long history and skill. Johnstons of Elgin picks only the best raw fibers for its cashmere. The brand keeps up with new styles by making new items every year. Their workers learn skills from family members. The mill in Scotland is the only vertical mill there. This means they do every step, like dyeing and finishing, themselves. That helps them keep the quality high. Since 1856, they have made over 7,500 dyes. You can find many colors in their cashmere. Johnstons of Elgin also cares about the planet. They use natural fibers and want to use only renewable energy. When you buy from Johnstons of Elgin, you get cashmere with a long history and care for the earth.
Johnstons of Elgin started in 1797 and has over 200 years of skill.
They use the best raw fibers and care about making things in a good way for the planet.
About half of their products are new each year, showing they always try new things.
Skills are taught from one generation to the next, and they have made over 7,500 dyes since 1856.
Their mill is the only vertical mill in Scotland, so they control every step.
They want to help the planet by using natural fibers and working toward all renewable energy.
Ralph Lauren
Ralph Lauren gives you a different kind of cashmere. The brand is known all over the world for being fancy. Ralph Lauren uses good materials, like cashmere, to make nice and comfy clothes. Each cashmere piece shows the brand’s focus on a special lifestyle. Ralph Lauren does not just sell clothes. It sells a dream of being elegant and sporty. This makes Ralph Lauren’s cashmere stand out from other brands. You can see the care and good fibers in every item. Ralph Lauren is famous everywhere, so many people pick its cashmere for style and comfort.
Feature | Description |
|---|---|
Heritage Authenticity | Ralph Lauren shows off its history and sporty style, making its cashmere special. |
Premium Materials | The brand uses top cashmere and other good materials for its fancy look. |
Lifestyle Aspiration | Ralph Lauren sells a dream lifestyle, not just clothes, which makes it more special. |
When you look at johnstons of elgin vs ralph lauren, you see two strong brands. Johnstons of Elgin gives you tradition and skill. Ralph Lauren gives you worldwide style and luxury. Both brands have great cashmere for your next sweater.
Cashmere Feel
Softness
When you touch cashmere, you want to feel softness right away. Johnstons of Elgin and Ralph Lauren both offer cashmere, but the softness can feel different. You may notice that Johnstons of Elgin cashmere feels thicker. This thickness gives you a sturdy feel, but sometimes it does not feel as soft as you expect. Ralph Lauren cashmere often feels softer when you first touch it. You might notice the softness as soon as your fingers brush the surface. Some people say Ralph Lauren cashmere feels more gentle and smooth.
You can think about softness like a first impression. If you want a sweater that feels soft every time you wear it, Ralph Lauren may give you that feeling. Johnstons of Elgin cashmere has a strong softness, but it can feel less refined. The softness in Ralph Lauren cashmere can make you feel cozy and relaxed. You may want to wear it all day because of the softness.
Tip: If you want the softest cashmere for your skin, try touching both brands in person. Your hands will tell you which softness feels best.
Texture
Texture is how cashmere feels when you move your hand across it. Johnstons of Elgin cashmere has a texture that feels solid and thick. You may notice that the texture is not as smooth as some Italian brands. The weaving in Johnstons of Elgin cashmere gives you a feeling of tradition. You can feel the skill in every thread, but sometimes the texture feels less soft.
Ralph Lauren cashmere has a texture that feels lighter. When you touch it, you may notice the smoothness. The texture feels soft and gentle. Some Ralph Lauren cashmere sweaters are thin, so you feel the softness more. The texture can make you feel like you are wearing something special. You may like the way the cashmere moves with your body.
Here is a table to help you compare the tactile experience of both brands:
Brand | Tactile Experience Description | Notes on Quality |
|---|---|---|
Johnstons of Elgin | Generally produces thicker cashmere, but has moved towards thinner garments that may lack refinement compared to Italian brands. | Known for durability and traditional craftsmanship, but recent offerings may not be as refined. |
Ralph Lauren | Often associated with a softer, more luxurious feel, but may vary in thickness and quality. | Offers a range of cashmere products, with some being thinner and potentially less durable. |
You can use this table to decide which texture and softness you like best.
Luxury
Luxury is more than just softness. When you buy cashmere, you want to feel special. Johnstons of Elgin cashmere gives you luxury through skill and tradition. The company controls every step in making cashmere. This means you get high quality and a feeling of history. Many people say Johnstons of Elgin cashmere feels like a luxury item because of the care in every piece.
Ralph Lauren cashmere gives you luxury in a different way. You may feel the softness and see the style. The brand makes you feel elegant and sporty. Ralph Lauren cashmere feels luxurious because it is soft and looks good. You may want to wear it for special events or just to feel good every day.
Luxury fashion reviewers say Johnstons of Elgin cashmere stands out because of its craftsmanship. The CEO says the brand’s control over every step makes the cashmere feel special. You can feel the luxury in the softness and texture. Ralph Lauren cashmere feels luxurious because of its soft touch and stylish look.
Johnstons of Elgin: Luxury comes from tradition, skill, and control over the process.
Ralph Lauren: Luxury comes from softness, style, and the feeling you get when you wear it.
You can choose which luxury matters most to you. Some people want the softness and style of Ralph Lauren. Others want the tradition and skill of Johnstons of Elgin. Both brands give you cashmere that feels luxurious in its own way.
Quality Comparison
Fiber Length
Fiber length is very important for good cashmere. Longer fibers make cashmere feel smoother. They also help it last longer. Johnstons of Elgin picks long fibers from Mongolia. This makes their cashmere soft and strong. Their cashmere keeps its shape after many wears. Ralph Lauren uses good fibers too. But the fiber length can change with each product. Some sweaters have shorter fibers. Shorter fibers can make cashmere less smooth. They also pill more easily. If you want the best quality, check the fiber length before buying.
Tip: Longer fibers mean fewer pills and a softer feel. Always ask about fiber length when you shop for premium cashmere.
Purity
Purity means how much real cashmere is in your sweater. Johnstons of Elgin works hard to keep its cashmere pure. The brand controls every step from start to finish. You get cashmere with very little mixing of other fibers. Their B-corp certification shows they care about the planet and people. Ralph Lauren also offers premium cashmere. Sometimes, blends are used in their products. The brand tries to be open about this. Ralph Lauren scored between 51% and 60% in the Fashion Transparency Index in 2023. They set goals to lower greenhouse gases and offer recycling. Some people worry about labor and purity in their supply chain. If you want pure cashmere, Johnstons of Elgin gives you more confidence.
Johnstons of Elgin keeps cashmere pure and controls every step.
Ralph Lauren works on being open and eco-friendly, but purity can change.
Weaving
Weaving changes how cashmere feels and lasts. Johnstons of Elgin uses special weaving methods. You get warping, weaving, and finishing that make cashmere strong and soft. Scottish water helps clean the fibers and makes them soft again. The teasling method uses a plant to lift fibers and make ripples. You see plain weave, dobby weaving, and Jacquard weaving in their products. These ways let you enjoy different looks and thicknesses. Ralph Lauren also uses weaving for premium cashmere. Their techniques are less detailed. Their sweaters focus more on style and comfort. You may notice less texture and fewer special effects. If you want cashmere with unique weaving, Johnstons of Elgin stands out.
Brand | Weaving Techniques Used | Impact on Cashmere Quality |
|---|---|---|
Johnstons of Elgin | Warping, teasling, Scottish water, plain, dobby, Jacquard | Strong, soft, ripple effect, unique designs |
Ralph Lauren | Standard weaving, focus on style | Smooth, stylish, less texture |
Weaving changes how your cashmere looks and feels. Johnstons of Elgin uses more steps for better quality. Ralph Lauren gives you style, but the weaving is simpler.
Note: If you want special weaving, pick brands that explain their process.
Now you know how fiber length, purity, and weaving affect cashmere quality. Johnstons of Elgin gives you careful sourcing and special techniques. Ralph Lauren offers style and comfort, but quality can change. Always check these things before you buy your next cashmere sweater.
Comfort & Wear
Warmth
You want your cashmere sweater to give you warmth on cold days. Johnstons of Elgin and Ralph Lauren both offer crewneck styles that help you stay cozy. When you wear a crewneck from Johnstons of Elgin, you notice the warmth right away. The thick cashmere traps heat and keeps you comfortable. Ralph Lauren crewneck sweaters also provide warmth, but the feeling can be lighter. Some Ralph Lauren crewneck sweaters use thinner cashmere, so you may not feel as much warmth as with Johnstons of Elgin.
Here is a quick comparison:
Brand | Notes on Warmth Experience | |
|---|---|---|
Johnstons of Elgin | High | Thick cashmere, strong warmth |
Ralph Lauren | Medium | Lighter cashmere, gentle warmth |
Tip: If you want maximum warmth, choose a crewneck with thicker cashmere. You will feel the difference when the temperature drops.
Breathability
Breathability helps you stay comfortable all day. Cashmere lets air move through the fibers, so you do not get too hot. Johnstons of Elgin crewneck sweaters use weaving that improves breathability. You feel warmth, but you do not sweat. Ralph Lauren crewneck sweaters also offer breathability. The lighter cashmere lets air flow, which helps you feel fresh. You can wear a crewneck indoors or outdoors and still enjoy warmth without overheating.
Johnstons of Elgin crewneck: Good warmth and breathability balance.
Ralph Lauren crewneck: Lighter warmth, high breathability.
You can pick a crewneck based on how much warmth and breathability you want. If you move a lot, breathability matters. If you sit outside, warmth is key.
Skin Feel
Skin feel is important for comfort. You want your cashmere crewneck to feel soft and smooth. Johnstons of Elgin uses long fibers, so the crewneck feels gentle on your skin. You notice warmth and comfort every time you wear it. Ralph Lauren crewneck sweaters feel soft too. The cashmere glides over your skin and gives you a sense of luxury. Some people say Ralph Lauren crewneck sweaters feel lighter, which adds to comfort.
Note: If you have sensitive skin, try both brands. Touch the crewneck and see which cashmere feels best for you.
You can enjoy warmth, breathability, and comfort with both brands. Crewneck sweaters from Johnstons of Elgin and Ralph Lauren give you choices. You decide which warmth level, breathability, and skin feel match your needs. Cashmere crewneck sweaters make every day more comfortable.
Durability
Pilling
When you buy a cashmere sweater, you want it to look good for a long time. Pilling happens when small balls form on the surface. This can make your sweater look old. Johnstons of Elgin cashmere feels soft, but it can be more fragile. You may notice pilling after wearing it several times. The softness comes from special processing, which can make the fibers weaker. Some users say Johnstons of Elgin cashmere pills more than older Scottish brands. Ralph Lauren cashmere also pills, but the amount depends on the thickness and fiber length. Thicker cashmere usually resists pilling better. If you want high durability, check the sweater for fiber length and thickness before you buy.
Tip: Use a cashmere comb to remove pills gently. This helps your sweater last longer.
Shape
Shape is important for durability. You want your cashmere sweater to keep its form after washing and wearing. Johnstons of Elgin cashmere feels substantial, but some users say it does not hold its shape as well as older brands like Ballantyne and Pringle. The softness makes it comfortable, but it may stretch or lose shape over time. Ralph Lauren cashmere sweaters keep their shape if you follow care instructions. You should lay your sweater flat to dry and avoid hanging it. This helps maintain the shape and increases durability.
Here is a quick comparison:
Brand | Shape Retention | Notes on Durability |
|---|---|---|
Johnstons of Elgin | Moderate | Softer, may stretch |
Ralph Lauren | Good | Holds shape better |
You can help your sweater last by caring for it properly. Shape retention is a key part of durability.
Care
Proper care increases the durability of your cashmere. You should wash your sweater by hand in cold water. Use a gentle soap made for wool or cashmere. Do not twist or wring the sweater. Lay it flat on a towel to dry. This keeps the fibers strong and helps the sweater keep its shape. Ralph Lauren and Johnstons of Elgin both recommend gentle care for their cashmere. If you follow these steps, you will enjoy your sweater for many years.
Wash by hand in cold water.
Use gentle soap.
Lay flat to dry.
Store folded, not hung.
Note: Good care makes a big difference in durability. Treat your cashmere gently to keep it looking new.
Durability matters when you choose a cashmere sweater. You want a sweater that resists pilling, keeps its shape, and lasts through many wears. Johnstons of Elgin offers softness, but you may see more pilling. Ralph Lauren gives you good shape retention and easy care. If you want the best durability, pay attention to fiber length, thickness, and how you care for your cashmere.
Value & Brands
Price vs Quality
When you shop for cashmere, you want to know if the price matches the quality. Johnstons of Elgin and Ralph Lauren both offer luxury sweaters, but their prices can surprise you. Take a look at this table to compare some options:
Product Description | Price |
|---|---|
Johnstons Of Elgin Cashmere Quarter Zip Sweater – Olive | $585.00 |
Johnstons Of Elgin Cashmere Quarter Zip Sweater – Russet | $585.00 |
Johnstons Of Elgin Cashmere Quarter Zip Sweater – Dark Olive | $585.00 |
Johnstons Of Elgin Cashmere Knitted Zip Sweater – Camel | $585.00 |
You see that Johnstons of Elgin sets a high price for its cashmere sweaters. Ralph Lauren also offers sweaters in a similar price range, especially in their luxury lines. When you pay this much, you expect a perfect cashmere crewneck or zip sweater to last and look great. You should always check the feel, thickness, and finish before you buy. A high price does not always mean the best quality, so touch the cashmere and look for details in the style.
Longevity
You want your sweater to last for years. Many people expect a luxury cashmere sweater to stay soft and stylish for a long time. Owner reports show that Johnstons of Elgin cashmere sweaters sometimes pill and look worn after only a few months. Some buyers feel disappointed when their expensive original cashmere sweater loses its fine look. Since 2018, some people have noticed a drop in quality, with sweaters losing their perfect cashmere crewneck feel. Ralph Lauren sweaters also get mixed reviews. Some lines hold up well, but others show wear quickly. Always check reviews and look for thicker, well-made cashmere if you want a sweater that lasts.
Tip: To keep your stylish cashmere sweaters looking new, wash them gently and store them folded. Good care helps any sweater last longer.
Cashmere Sweater Brands
You have many choices when you look for cashmere sweater brands. Johnstons of Elgin stands out for its long history and skill in making cashmere. The brand started in 1852 and is known for soft, warm sweaters. Johnstons of Elgin also has B-corp status, which means they care about people and the planet. Ralph Lauren brings American luxury and a strong sense of style. Some of their sweaters, like the perfect cashmere crewneck, get high praise. Other lines, such as the Blue Label, get mixed reviews for quality.
Here are some things that make these brands stand out:
Johnstons of Elgin: Known for tradition, expertise, and high-quality fibers in cashmere sweaters.
Ralph Lauren: Famous for American luxury and style, but quality can change between lines.
When you choose a cashmere sweater, think about what matters most to you. Do you want a sweater with a long tradition, or do you want a sweater that matches your style? Both brands offer options for anyone who loves cashmere and wants to look good in a crewneck sweater or another classic style.
Johnstons of Elgin vs Ralph Lauren
Summary
When you look at johnstons of elgin and ralph lauren, you see two brands that make luxury cashmere. Both brands have soft sweaters that look nice. But they are different in quality, how they help the planet, and what you get for your money. Johnstons of Elgin is known for its long history and careful work. Their cashmere feels strong and keeps you warm. Ralph Lauren sweaters feel softer and have a modern style. Many people say Ralph Lauren sweaters are gentle and light.
You might wonder which brand is better for you. Johnstons of Elgin uses dyes that are better for the earth and tries to use only renewable energy. Their workers get fair pay, and they care about animals. Ralph Lauren also tries to help the planet, but not as much as Johnstons of Elgin. Both brands feel fancy, but Johnstons of Elgin is more open about how they make things and how they treat people and animals.
Here is a table to help you compare the brands:
Criteria | Johnstons of Elgin | Ralph Lauren |
|---|---|---|
Sustainability | Strong sustainability rating, low-impact dyes, renewable energy use | Good sustainability, some lower-impact materials, but lacks commitment to eliminate all hazardous chemicals |
Quality | Artisanal craftsmanship, long-lasting products | Luxury knitwear, long-lasting products |
Workers’ Rights | Great rating, audits supply chain, ensures living wages | It’s a Start rating, partly traces supply chain, lacks evidence for living wages |
Animal Welfare | Good rating, uses Responsible Wool Standard | Not Good Enough, uses various animal-derived products without strong traceability |
Which to Choose
You want to find the best cashmere sweater for you. Think about what is most important. If you care about old traditions, strong sweaters, and fair treatment, Johnstons of Elgin could be best. Many people say their cashmere lasts a long time. You get good value, even if it is not the fanciest.
If you like soft sweaters and modern looks, Ralph Lauren has nice choices. Their sweaters feel light and look stylish. Some people pick Ralph Lauren because it is famous and looks fancy.
Think about these things when you choose:
Johnstons of Elgin is good for the planet, makes strong sweaters, and has great quality.
Ralph Lauren sweaters are softer and stylish, but they do not rate as high for helping the planet or animals.
Many people say Johnstons of Elgin sweaters last a long time and are worth the price.
Ralph Lauren sweaters feel gentle and look new, which might fit your style.
Tip: Try on both brands if you can. You will feel which one is softer and fits your style.
You can pick johnstons of elgin or ralph lauren based on what matters to you. If you want the best mix of quality, helping the planet, and value, Johnstons of Elgin is a great choice. If you want a soft and fancy sweater, Ralph Lauren is a good pick. Both brands have cashmere sweaters that make you feel special.
You found out that Ralph Lauren cashmere feels softer. Johnstons of Elgin gives you strong tradition and lasts longer. When picking a luxury cashmere brand, think about these things:
If the brand cares about the planet and people
How skilled the workers are and what the factory can do
Where the cashmere comes from
Look at other brands if you want more choices. Here are some you can try:
Brand | Price Range | Recommendation |
|---|---|---|
Mid-range | Best for softness and value | |
Loro Piana | High-end | Best for longevity and luxury |
COS | Affordable | Good for daily wear |
Pick the cashmere that fits your style and what you care about.
FAQ
How do you tell if cashmere is real?
You can check the label for “100% cashmere.” Real cashmere feels soft and warm. Try stretching the fabric. Real cashmere returns to its shape. Fake cashmere may feel rough or stiff.
Which brand is warmer, Johnstons of Elgin or Ralph Lauren?
Johnstons of Elgin sweaters usually feel warmer. The thicker cashmere traps heat better. Ralph Lauren sweaters feel lighter, so you may notice less warmth.
Does cashmere from these brands pill easily?
Both brands can pill, especially with frequent wear. Johnstons of Elgin uses longer fibers, which helps reduce pilling. Ralph Lauren sweaters with shorter fibers may pill more.
Can you machine wash cashmere sweaters?
You should not machine wash cashmere. Hand wash in cold water with gentle soap. Lay flat to dry. Machine washing can damage the fibers and change the shape.
Is Johnstons of Elgin cashmere better for sensitive skin?
Johnstons of Elgin uses long, pure fibers. You may find their cashmere feels smoother on sensitive skin. Ralph Lauren cashmere also feels soft, but some blends may irritate.
What makes these brands different from other cashmere sweater brands?
Johnstons of Elgin controls every step from fiber to finish. Ralph Lauren focuses on style and luxury. Both brands offer high quality, but Johnstons of Elgin has a longer tradition and stronger sustainability efforts.
