As the seasons shift and knitwear reclaims its place in your wardrobe, you may find yourself wondering: what's the real difference between wool, cashmere and cotton knits? While all three are popular fibres for layering, each brings its own feel, warmth, and styling possibilities. Knowing which knit to choose can elevate your outfit and make sure you’re dressing for both comfort and climate.
At Impulse Boutique, we stock a wide variety of premium knits, from chunky wool blends to feather-soft cashmere and breathable cotton layers. Here’s your guide to understanding these fibres, so you can choose the perfect knit for every season and occasion.
Wool: Warm, Durable & Classic
Wool is one of the most traditional fibres used in knitwear, loved for its ability to provide reliable warmth without excessive bulk. It’s naturally insulating, moisture-wicking, and breathable, making it a go-to for cold days and layering under coats.
Modern wool knits come in a variety of blends that improve softness and wearability, especially when combined with fibres like nylon, alpaca, or even cashmere. At Impulse Boutique, you’ll find a range of wool styles in our Winter Collection, with standout pieces from brands like Maud Dainty, Kinney, and Layer'd, known for textured finishes and easy-to-style silhouettes.
Best for:
✔ Cold days
✔ Structured styles
✔ Layering under outerwear
Cashmere: Lightweight Luxury
Soft, refined, and undeniably luxurious, cashmere is the queen of knitwear. Sourced from the undercoat of cashmere goats, it offers an incredible warmth-to-weight ratio, meaning it keeps you warm without any heaviness.
At Impulse, we stock cashmere staples from brands like Mia Fratino, known for ethical sourcing and buttery-soft designs. From elegant crewnecks to cosy wrap knits, these pieces offer long-lasting quality when cared for properly.
Best for:
✔ Mild to cool climates
✔ Travel-friendly layering
✔ A polished, elevated feel
Cotton: Breathable & Seasonless
Cotton knitwear is lightweight, breathable, and easy to care for, making it a go-to choice for transitional dressing. While it doesn’t offer the same insulation as wool or cashmere, it’s ideal for layering in mild climates or wearing solo on warmer days.
Our cotton and cotton-blend knits include relaxed jumpers, longline cardigans and lightweight layering pieces that can take you from desk to dinner. Brands like MA Dainty and Elk The Label often incorporate stretch-cotton blends for enhanced comfort and durability.
Best for:
✔ Year-round wear
✔ Sensitive skin
✔ Casual, breathable comfort
How to Choose the Right Knit for You
Choosing the right knit comes down to climate, occasion, and personal style. Here’s how to narrow it down:
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If you need warmth and structure for winter days, go with wool.
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If you want lightweight comfort that still keeps you warm, invest in cashmere.
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If you need a breathable, easy-care layer for everyday wear, choose cotton.
And of course, there’s no rule saying you have to stick with one,. Many of our most popular pieces combine different fibres to create knits that balance comfort, longevity, and effortless style.
Knitwear That Works With Your Wardrobe
Choosing between wool, cashmere and cotton comes down to what suits your day-to-day whether that’s extra warmth, light layering or easy care. Each fabric has its place, and the right pieces will quietly support your style without overcomplicating things.
The knitwear collection at Impulse Boutique is full of soft textures, thoughtful shapes and season-ready staples. If you’re unsure which options make the most sense for you, get in touch with our team for styling advice that’s simple and helpful.
