I don’t know about you, but as soon as the first hint of crisp, fall air arrives in October, I’m ready to turn on "Gilmore Girls," cuddle up in my coziest blanket and start planning out all of my cutest cold-weather outfit options.
And when it comes to seasonal dressing, there’s nothing more comfortable than slipping on a fall sweater that’s low-effort, trendy and feels like you’ve taken your soft couch blanket with you out in the real world when you’re wearing it.
But since there are so many sweater options on the market, we’ve made things a little easier for you by narrowing down the absolute best fall sweater options, according to editors and stylists.
Grab a warm cup of hot cocoa and scroll on for our top picks to shop now.
Best sweaters for fall, according to experts | Best sweaters for fall, according to editors | What sweaters are trending? | Best material for sweaters | More sweaters to shop | How we chose | Meet the experts
Best sweaters for fall, according to experts
An affordable option: Dokotoo Crew Neck Fall Sweater
- Affordable option
- Multiple colors available
- Easily snagged, per shoppers
Sizes: Small - XX-Large | Colors available: 29 | Materials: Acrylic
Don’t sleep on Amazon for a fresh fall sweater find. Designer, consultant and stylist Juanita S. Carmet notes that the cable-knit design “lends for a flattering look and gives an otherwise basic top much interest.”
An asymmetrical moment: Lulu's Asymmetrical Button-Front Sweater Top
- Unique design
- Fits true to size
- Can only be hand-washed
Sizes: X-Small - X-Large | Colors available: 2 | Materials: Viscose, polyester and nylon
Sweaters don’t have to be boring; just take it from this Lulu’s that spices things up with an asymmetrical button line. “It has a more fitted bodice that is in contrast to most of the relaxed or loose-fitting styles that are currently trending,” says Carmet.
“However, the asymmetrical button front closure gives it an elevated and stylish look, giving it the ability to pair well with anything. You can keep it casual with jeans and loafers or spice it up for a date with a skirt and boots it achieves the perfect fall look.”
A sleek polo sweater: Mango Knitted Polo Neck Sweater
- Available in extended sizes
- Plus sizes sell out quickly
Sizes: XX-Small - 4X-Large | Colors available: 2 | Materials: Viscose and polyamide
Carmet loves this polo pullover from Mango that’s just under $50. “The minimal color contrast and collared neck adds interest to a classic and elevates the casual sweater look into something more polished,” she explains.
“It’s simple yet sophisticated, allowing for versatility. It is ideal for the office as well as more casual outings.” You can pick up this sweater in two shades: black or ecru.
For everyday wear: & Other Stories Mock Neck Sweater
- True to size
- Partially recycled materials
- Can only be hand-washed
Sizes: X-Small - Large | Colors available: 5 | Materials: Wool, polyamide, mohair and spandex
Fashion stylist Sharon Warten loves this brand for sweaters that create an effortless, polished look. This piece features a ribbed neckline, cuff line and hem line that creates a uniform feeling, even if you’re just throwing it on with jeans. It’s made with 60% wool that is certified, according to the Responsible Wool Standard for raising sheep. You can truly feel good about this under-$100 purchase that comes in five neutral shades.
A cropped moment: Dynamite Cropped Turtleneck Sweater
- Relaxed fit
- Vented hem
- Some say neck size is tight
Sizes: XX-Small - X-Large | Colors available: 4 | Materials: Nylon, acrylic
Warten says to think about items with staying power when shopping for fall sweaters. “What’s most important is staying true to your individual style and considering what works best for your unique silhouette,” says Warten.
“That said, oversized, chunky knits are having a major moment! I’m seeing lots of playful details like balloon sleeves, cable-knit patterns and bold colors.” Warten loves a burgundy hue for fall, like this cropped turtleneck sweater from Dynamite that’s just under $60. If you like a sweater you can cozy up in, this one has extra long arms that extend into your fingertips.
For transitional weather: All The Ways Kourtney Cardigan
- Button closure
- Limited sizing
Sizes: X-Small - Large | Colors available: 1 | Materials: Viscose, nylon and elastane
A cropped cardigan, like this one from All The Ways, is perfect to pair with shorts and tights as you transition into colder weather. Add a pair of black pumps and you instantly have an elevated look that’s still comfortable. Warten recommends this sweater to her clients, and it features a snap-button closure so you can seal up the garment for a polished look.
A bold cardigan: Heartloom Sol Cardi
- Soft to the touch
- Limited sizing options
Sizes: X-Small - X-Large | Colors available: 2 | Materials: Polyester and cotton
The details on this Heartloom cardigan really make it pop, from contrasting trim to a pink and peach blend knit fabric all over to gold embellished buttons. You can throw this over a camisole or wear it on its own for a perfectly polished look.
This is another pick from Carmet: “The play on vintage-inspired looks that mimic retro vintage jackets and dresses nod to the past while remaining contemporary,” she says.
Fitted with a collar: Aritzia Clarette Merino Wool Polo Sweater
- Fits broad shoulders
- Can only be hand-washed
Sizes: 2X-S - XL | Colors available: 3 | Materials: Wool, nylon and elastane
Warten recommends sticking to neutral colors when shopping for a sweater that you can re-wear for seasons to come. This choice from Aritzia is made from extra-fine 100% merino wool that looks luxe and feels ultra-soft to the touch. It comes in gray, taupe and black and has a slight stretch that’ll keep you comfortable as you wear it.
Best sweaters for fall, according to editors
"Stays tucked in": Quince Cotton Cashmere Ribbed Turtleneck Bodysuit
- Stays tucked in
- Soft fabric blend
- Thong doesn't create lines
- Some say it runs long
Sizes: XS - XL | Colors available: 3 | Materials: Cotton, viscose and cashmere
Audrey Ekman, a production associate, recommends this sweater bodysuit. She says, "I have been counting down the days until it’s cold enough to wear this sweater, and today is the day. I’m happy to report it’s every bit as cozy as I was hoping it’d be as a cotton-cashmere blend."
Ekman continues, "I layered it over a long-sleeved base layer and it didn’t look bulky or bunch up at all, plus it stays tucked in thanks to the bodysuit bottom. Such a great staple piece for fall and winter that I’m excited to style with jeans, skirts, slacks, cardigans and more."
Oversized option: Aelfric Eden Oversized Crewneck Sweatshirts
- Retro look
- Cozy lining
- Runs oversized
Sizes: XS - XL | Colors available: 5 | Materials: Cotton and polyester
Ekman also recommends this oversized sweater. She says, "For a change of pace from my usual classic sweaters, this fall I’m dipping my toe into the 'bloke-core' aesthetic with this vintage sweatshirt. It fits oversized and instantly makes me feel cool when I throw it on. It is so cozy with a terry-like lining and I’ve already gotten so many compliments on it. I like pairing it with jeans and sneakers!"
The "perfect cozy fall staple": Naadam The Original Cashmere Sweater
- Cozy fabric
- Lots of colors available
- Some say it runs large
Sizes: XXS - XXL | Colors available: 34 | Materials: Cashmere
Annie Shigo, a social media editorial assistant, says, "I love Naadam and always am shopping on their site, this original sweater is cashmere and is a pretty great price point for cashmere. It comes in dozens of colors and sizes. It is the perfect cozy fall staple."
An autumnal design: WeSC America Inc Leon Anniversary Stripe Sweater
- Good quality
- Oversized fit
- Unique style
Sizes: S - XL | Colors available: 1 | Materials: Cotton
Editor Vivien Moon recommends this sweater and says, "I was gifted this sweater a little over a month ago and I have already worn it a handful of times because it is so comfortable. Not only does it have a fun design that is perfect for fall, it is really cozy and goes with a lot of styles of jeans which is how I pair it."
Moon continues, "I especially love that it has more of a men's style that gives me the perfect amount of slouch letting me have a more relaxed look for when I want it. I’ve also had multiple people compliment me each time I wear it and my colleagues are very impressed with the quality as well."
Splurge-worthy editor favorite: Mac Duggal Women's Thick Knit Long Sleeve Crew Neck
- High-quality sweater
- Has functional pockets
- Breathable design
- Holes may be too big for some
Sizes: 2X-S — XL | Colors available: 3 | Materials: Wool, nylon and elastane
Moon also recommends this splurge-worthy sweater by Mac Duggal. She says, "While this is a splurge, this is a sweater I know I will be wearing for a long time. Even though I typically wear a size small, I got this in a large and really love the oversized fit it has."
Moon continues, "It’s perfectly slouchy and relaxed (which is how I want a sweater to fit) while still having some personality in the knit and the buttons on the shoulder that can give me an off-the-shoulder look when I want it. Because of the knit being so loose, it provides some breathability to it so it’s not too warm for those days where you want something light but it can be layered with a long sleeve for when it gets cooler. I’ve worn it to travel because it’s just comfortable enough that I can feel relaxed but still cute so I don’t feel frumpy."
What sweaters are trending right now?
According to Carmet, look out for polo sweaters and collared tops for fall 2024.
However, retro styles still have a place in fashion. Think “Coco Chanel’s iconic look with contrast piping, pockets, and elaborate buttons,” she says.
"However, I’d have to say that cartoon sweaters are having a moment,” Carmet adds. “By adding unexpected details and non-traditional construction, this previously core and boring look has gained a revitalized appearance.”
Of course, you can’t go wrong with any sweater you choose; fashion is also about loving what you’re wearing and tailoring it to your own personal style.
The best material for sweaters
According to Warten, the best materials to look for when shopping fall sweaters include “natural fibers like wool, cashmere and cotton.”
She loves wool since it offers “warmth and durability, while cashmere feels luxurious and soft.” If you want a breathable option, Warten recommends looking for cotton or cotton-blend sweaters that are also easy to care for and are perfect for layering.
More sweaters to shop
Cold-shoulder sweater: The Drop Cutout Loose Turtleneck
- Extensive size range
- Unique design
- Runs large
Sizes: XXS - 5X | Colors available: Five | Materials: Rayon, polyester and nylon
Give a cold shoulder with this loose Amazon turtleneck. It'd also look great with a denim jacket if you're aiming for a more modest look.
"I am really impressed with this sweater," one reviewer said. "It looks like it's way more expensive than it is."
Off-the-shoulder option: Landroiy Ribbed Knit Oversized Sweater
- Relaxed fit
- Great value for money
- Hand-wash only
Sizes: S - XXL | Colors available: 12 | Materials: Nylon
Off-the-shoulder sweaters are a totally chic look that will go with a variety of pants and skirts. This style from Amazon comes in plenty of neutral shades like black, white, brown and more.
Classic turtleneck: L.L. Bean Turtleneck Cotton Sweater
- Budget-friendly cashmere feel
- Classic design
- Can be scratchy
Sizes: XS - XL | Colors available: Seven | Materials: Cotton and cashmere
We love this L.L. Bean turtleneck because it's designed to be extra soft, thanks to the high-quality cotton-cashmere material.
How we chose
Before choosing the best sweaters for fall, Shop TODAY spoke with professional fashion designers and stylists about what's trending. They provided their go-to sweaters, and editors on our team shared their favorites as well.
Meet the experts
- Juanita S. Carmet is a fashion designer, brand consultant and stylist with over 18 years of experience.
- Sharon Warten is a fashion stylist with two decades of experience.
- Rebekah Roy is a UK-based fashion stylist with over 20 years of experience.
