Quince vs. Jenni Kayne: Which Comfortable Fisherman Sweater Deserves a Spot in My Wardrobe?

• Appearance: 18/20
• Comfort: 17/20
• Fit: 19/20
• Value: 20/20
• Quality: 17/20

Total: 91/100

The Quince fisherman sweater is made from 100 percent organic cotton and, much to my surprise, the knit is rather thick (without being chunky) and weighty. When I referred to the size chart, I found that the small was my suggested size—I fluctuate between a four and six, depending on the brand—but after reading some reviews of buyers who sized up for an oversize fit, I was convinced to go with the medium.

The sweater has a slightly boxy fit to it, and I liked the roominess in the waist and chest. I especially appreciated that it didn’t suffocate my armpits, which would make it an immediate NO in this gal’s book. The hem lays at the widest part of my hips (a result of sizing up), so I found that it looked great when I French tucked it into my jeans.

Then came washing day, and luckily my new Quince fisherman sweater is machine-washable. I tossed my camel number into my delicate pile with all-natural detergent and let the washer do its thing. Even though the brand says it can be tumble-dried on low, I knew better than to take my chances. I mean, we’re talking about 100 percent cotton, people. I’ve seen one too many keepsakes go from adult size one minute to baby’s clothes the next. So, after laying it flat, it dried well and looked the same as when I received it. (Phew!)

Because of that cotton knit, it isn’t very insulating, and I found myself wishing I had another layer on as I sat at my heatless WFH desk setup. The feeling dissipated once I stepped outside and into some sunlight, where the breathable material did its job. And while I wouldn’t call it plush or overtly cozy, per say, it is nowhere near scratchy (hooray!) and has a comforting texture that reminds me of a weighted blanket. I did notice two tiny areas where fabric was raveling, but for $50, it’s a solid sweater option for those of us who run hot or for people who wear lots of layers and don’t want to drip in sweat on their commute home.

So, does the Jenni Kayne knit stand a chance? Let’s read.

• Appearance: 19/20
• Comfort: 20/20
• Fit: 18/20
• Value: 18/20
• Quality: 20/20

Total: 95/100

OK, I finally understand what the Jenni Kayne hype is all about. The fisherman sweater was classic, tailored and luxuriously soft. I could immediately tell that the fabric (it’s 100 percent cashmere) was of the highest quality and the sweater was knit to perfection. When glancing at the brand’s website, I noticed the sizes, XS to 3X, are a touch more inclusive than Quince’s range, which spans from XS to XXL. Like Quince, I opted for the size medium (one size larger from my usual) in hopes that this would fit me slightly oversize.

When I compared the two sweaters, one on top of the other, the cut, width and length were the same. For some reason, Quince’s looser fit of the cotton was more my style, but I appreciated the straight and more tailored fit that the cashmere took to my body. I did need a second to get used to the armpit length, though, which sat alarmingly close for comfort. Compared to the Quince, this jumper is far more lightweight and warmer—though that doesn’t surprise me considering cashmere is known for its insulating properties.

When my sister saw me wearing it, she showered me in compliments and my initial hesitation over the fit melted right away. She loved the way it hung on my body and gushed over how sophisticated and expensive it looked. It didn’t take her long to guess that it was a Jenni Kayne sweater (and nearly snatch it off my body in envious rage).

Whether it was the sister envy that convinced me, or I was finally letting go of the idea I had in my head of what kind of silhouette looks good on me, it was clear to me that wearing Jenni Kayne was like being wrapped in the softest, coziest blanket that I never wanted to take off. And the warmth on this fisherman sweater was almost too impressive; I had to take it off a couple of times after just a few hours of wear because I was starting to sweat, which wasn’t ideal, but bearing in mind the confusing California fall weather, it checked out.

The Jenni Kayne, while pricey, is a great option for those who want a staple sweater that’s long-lasting, versatile, lightweight and chic. Yes, $425 is a hard pill to swallow, but considering it’s well-made from 100 percent cashmere, you’re investing in quality and construction that’s truly *chef’s kiss*.

When you boil it down, both fisherman sweaters are great in their own ways. They’re comfortable, stylish and fit somewhat similarly. It’s safe to say that the material will feel different between both sweaters, considering the Quince garb is made from 100 percent organic cotton and the Jenni Kayne from 100 percent cashmere, so it really boils down to fabric preference and budget. I found the Jenni Kayne to feel overall more luxuriously soft and plush against my skin than the Quince sweater, which has a weighty, thick and breathable knit that I appreciate and will without a doubt wear during the transitional months when there’s a slight chill out. Until then, I’m reaching for my Jenni Kayne fisherman sweater to warm me up.

TLDR? Whether you’re sweat-prone like me and are looking for an affordable sweater that won’t break the bank or you’re on the hunt for an impeccably well-made, warm cashmere number, neither of these fisherman sweaters will let you down.