If you purchase an independently reviewed product or service through a link on our website, WWD may receive an affiliate commission.
Updated September 29, 2023: This article on the best sweaters for women was updated with fresh product picks for fall and winter 2023, plus new information on the best sweater styles for the season.
Sweater weather is here, people, and that means waving farewell to summer and preparing to cozy up in your new favorite women’s sweaters. Yes, wool jackets and trench coats are synonymous with the cold, but the humble sweater for women is what you’ll reach for first, because it boasts endless styling opportunities. Whether it be a thick cashmere knit for the coldest of winter days or a chunky cotton pullover to wrap around your shoulders on a mild fall day, the best sweaters for women are stylish, functional, and the best investment you can make this season.
“I believe that knitwear is a very effective purchase,” Chloé Harrouche, creative director and founder of Loulou Studio. “They are pieces that will follow you and sit very close to your skin. I feel that this contact creates emotion, an intimate relation, and so demands proper reflection before purchase.”
Although the various styles and materials can be extensive, from cashmere and wool to crewnecks and turtlenecks, each one plays a different role and creates a specific look on the body, making it impossible to narrow down to simply one sweater in your closet. Thankfully, sweaters are extremely versatile.
When it comes to styling knitwear, the options are also limitless. “It’s easy to distinguish between the two categories; however, I feel like a modern take on knitwear calls for a blurring of the lines,” Harrouche says. “To look at the pieces with fresh eyes, to elevate and not put it in boxes. A fine cashmere sweater with jeans, a chunky jumper with silk trousers, these balanced contrasts, I believe, create the strongest silhouettes.”
Featuring all the luxury knitwear brands like Khaite and Altuzarra alongside the beloved, more affordable finds like Old Navy and J.Crew, this guide to women’s sweaters for 2023 covers all the bases. So, keep scrolling to find the best knits available now and a few expert tips and tricks to curate a timeless sweater collection.
Sign up for WWD Shop’s newsletter to get the scoop on the best in beauty and style with in-depth reviews of exciting new releases and buyer’s guides to find the products you need to try ASAP.
Top Sweaters for Women of 2023
Automet Fall Cardigan
Best Plus-Sized Sweater for Women
- Size Range: S to XL
- Colorways: Black, Nutmeg, Apricot, orange, navy, and four other colors
- Fabric: 50% viscose, 30% polyamide, 20% polyester
- Care: Machine wash
- #1 Bestseller in Maternity Sweaters
- Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars
A chunky sweater for women is a wardrobe staple. This ribbed version from Automet works on every body type, thanks to the slightly oversized shape and flattering side slits. Oversized horn buttons and perfectly placed pockets give the silhouette added design appeal. Plus, customers love the thickness and soft quality of the yarn. Style yours over loungewear while working at home, or wear it over a sleek slip dress when heading out with friends for a relaxed weekend outing.
What reviewers say: “Love the buttons and updated fit of this cardigan, boxy in a good way. Nutmeg color is a perfect neutral shade, just like the picture.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $34.99
J.Crew Rollneck Sweater
Best Work Sweater for Women
- Size Range: XXXS to 3X
- Colorways: Graphite, Lilac, Camel, sand, black
- Fabric: Polyamide/merino wool/alpaca/elastane
- Care: Hand wash
- J.Crew Top-Quality Store Badge on Google
We all have our favorite sweater — the one you grab at a moment’s notice without thinking twice. However, if you don’t, J.Crew’s Rollneck sweater will become your go-to. This classic, relaxed knit hits at the hips and features a slight mock neck to keep your chest warm but not too warm. When it comes to styling, options are infinite. Wear alone with straight-leg jeans, trousers, skirts, and more, or layer with a blazer or coordinating cardigan for a matching twin-set look. Reviewers note it runs large, so size down unless you’re looking for an oversized fit you can wear over a white T-shirt.
What reviewers say: “The sweater is very soft, the color offerings are lovely, and this is a chic take on the cotton rollback sweaters from the long ago days of J.Crew. Don’t regret my purchase for a second.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $118
Free People Nightingale Cardi Sweater
Best Oversized Cardigan Sweater for Women
- Size Range: XS to XL
- Colorways: Cinnamon brown, Belle of Georgia, cream, sun glow, black and silver gleam
- Fabric: 58% cotton, 40% acrylic, 1% spandex, 1% nylon
- Care: Hand wash cold or dry clean
- Free People Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4/5 stars
Free People customers can’t seem to get enough of this cardigan, with many reviews boasting multiple purchases in different colorways. Designed with an oversized, relaxed fit, this open-front cardigan is a great topper for everything from feminine, ruffled dresses to a blouse and high-waisted jeans. Hitting well below the hips, this is a longer sweater style that will cover and conceal, and almost feel cocoon-ish. Throw it on for a quick grocery run or layer up in the winter with a turtleneck underneath for extra warmth. Bonus points: It has pockets.
What reviewers say: “I love this sweater so much I now have it in 2 colors. It is a nice thick knit. Ice length with leggings or a nice fall/spring sweater with shorts. Well worth the money IMO. Great quality. Might end up with it in another color as well!”
Price upon publish date of this article: $108
Free People Nightingale Cardi Sweater $108 Buy Now at free people
Everlane The Cashmere Oversized Turtleneck
Best Women’s Cashmere Sweater
- Size Range: XXS to XL
- Colorways: Black, bright navy, kambaba, light camel and bubble gum
- Fabric: 94% recycled cashmere, 6% recycled wool
- Special features: Made using ReCashmere® yarn.
- Care: Hand wash cold, lay flat to dry or dry clean
- Everlane Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 3.9/5 stars
Black sweaters for women can be worn throughout fall, winter and spring, and pair well with everything, especially when they are made in sumptuous cashmere (with a hint of wool for extra warmth). Everlane’s oversized style has the perfect, slightly baggy feel while remaining unfrumpy. Soft and luxuriously warm, this is one style that you’ll reach for over and over. The best part is it is made from recycled cashmere that has been spun into new form through their ReCashmere processes. Style it with tried-and-true jeans and designer sneakers on the weekend and trousers and flat shoes for work. Choosing just one colorway will be the hardest decision.
What reviewers say: “This sweater is soft, flattering and timeless. Hits just right with skinny jeans. Wear all day comfortably. Relaxed, yet pulled together. Loose but not sloppy.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $230
Everlane The Cashmere Oversized Turtleneck $230 Buy Now at everlane
Madewell The Fineloft Shrunk Sweater Vest
- Size Range: XXS to XXL
- Colorways: Garnish, Pewter, Caramel
- Fabric: Acrylic/polyamide/alpaca
- Care: Dry clean
- Madwell Top-Quality Store Badge on Google
One layering essential we’re standing behind this season is the smart and stylish sweater vest. Supremely snug and endlessly wearable, Madewell’s The Fineloft Shrunken Sweater Vest has a cropped silhouette designed to hit low on the ribcage and a V-neck that’s perfect for showing off an array of necklaces. Slip it over a winter-friendly dress or a crisp poplin shirt with baggy trousers and huggie earrings.
What reviewers say: “I sized up a couple of sizes to get the fit I wanted, otherwise, this runs quite snug/cropped. Depends on what look you want I guess. It’s still a little bit cropped but has a better flow sized up in my opinion. Very soft and comfy, haven’t seen how it holds up in the wash though. That’s the true test for much of MW knits and wovens.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $68
Madewell The Fineloft Shrunk Sweater Vest $68 Buy Now at madewell
Altuzarra Minamoto Sweater
Best Amazon Sweater for Women
- Size Range: XS to XL
- Colorways: Carbon melange, black, biscotti and ivory
- Fabric: 100% cotton
- Care: Dry clean only
- Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars
Statement knitwear is a consistent focus point in each of Joseph Altuzarra’s collections, but sometimes the most basic silhouettes can be the best. The core Minamoto sweater is derived from a simple, classic crewneck design, but with bold finishing details. This cashmere sweater gets its individuality from an asymmetrical row of gold-tone buttons, a signature for the brand, trimming the exterior. Unfasten on top to reveal a little skin underneath or break up the look with a crisp, white button-down peeking out from an unbuttoned hem. This one will take sweater weather to new heights.
Price upon publish date of this article: $795
Perfect Moment Alpine Sweater
Best Ski Sweater for Women
- Size Range: XS to XL
- Colorways: Brown sugar, black, navy/snow white and red
- Fabric: 100% Merino wool
- Care: Hand wash cold separately or dry clean
- Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars
Perfect Moment has been, well, perfecting ski wear since it was founded in the ’80s. Known for its technical gear, every design exudes a bit of fun as well. Their riff on the heritage alpine sweater is no exception. A punchy red zig-zag adorns the front of this chunky, merino wool turtleneck, mimicking the brand’s star-shaped logo. Layer this long-sleeved sweater under your bibs and ski jacket for your next mountain vacation, or wear it with jeans and lace-up boots for a cool, àpres-ski look that can be worn throughout winter, whether you are on or off the slopes.
Price upon publish date of this article: $410
Barbour Mersea Sweater
Bet Novelty Sweater for Women
- Size Range: 4 to 14
- Colorways: Aran
- Fabric: 80% wool, 20% polyamide
- Care: Hand wash, dry flat
- Nordstrom Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8/5 stars
Barbour’s knitwear designs are often playful in appearance, expertly crafted, and inspired by the British brand’s coastal and country heritage. The Mersea sweater is woven with a variety of yarn weights to create texture and a unique pattern throughout. The fold-over turtleneck silhouette is up-to-date, and the fair isle design is hand-knotted for an artisanal touch. Wear this sweater with baggy denim and finish with a suede slip-on shoe, like Birkenstock Boston clogs.
Price upon publish date of this article: $160
Loulou Studio Bruzzi Oversize Wool & Cashmere Sweater
Best Crewneck Sweater for Women
- Size Range: XS to L
- Colorways: Pink, grey melange
- Fabric: 90% wool, 10% cashmere
- Care: Dry clean or hand wash, dry flat
- Nordstrom Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8/5 stars
Crewnecks are the bread and butter of a women’s sweater drawer, and Loulou Studio’s cropped shape is a favorite of the founder. “I love the Bruzzi for its infinite wearability and good proportions, with the visual lines highlighting the shape,” Harrouche tells WWD. The curved, dropped shoulder sleeve and oversized silhouette make for an everyday style every closet needs. Available every season, this is a core style for the brand that you can always find in classic shades, as well as new seasonal hits. Wear yours with your favorite worn-in wide-leg jeans for an effortless, relaxed look.
Price upon publish date of this article: $330
Loulou Studio Bruzzi Oversize Wool & Cashmere Sweater $330 Buy Now at nordstrom
Reformation Winnie Sweater
- Size Range: XS to XL
- Colorways: Mineral, cream
- Fabric: 100% Organic Cotton
- Care: Machine wash cold
- Saks Fifth Avenue Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4/5 stars
Sometimes, a lightweight sweater is a better choice, especially for warm fall days. So opt for a cotton knit, like Reformation’s Winnie Sweater, because it’s naturally more breathable. The crewneck design is spun from pure organic cotton and features an open-weave detail, giving you that cozy feeling while allowing airflow. It’s offered in two colorways: a charming powder blue and a classic cream, both of which you can’t go wrong with. Wear it alone with blue straight-leg jeans and a belt for the beginning of fall, then layer over a long-sleeved T-shirt once the temperatures drop.
Price upon publish date of this article: $168
Reformation Winnie Sweater $168 Buy Now at saks fifth avenue
Old Navy SoSoft Cropped Cardigan
- Size Range: XS to XXL
- Colorways: Dark brown, pink, light brown, black, and 3 other colors
- Fabric: 53% cotton, 24% polyester, 20% nylon, 3% spandex
- Care: Hand wash cold
- Old Navy Top-Quality Store Badge on Google
If you’re a regular TikTok or Instagram user, you’ve likely seen Old Navy’s SoSoft Cropped Cardigan. This sweater has taken over social media with rave reviews for its high-quality lightweight design and low price tag. Shoppers have even noted that it’s a great alternative to Aritiza’s Sicily Cardigan. Take notes from the fall 2023 runways and style the sweater in a prim and proper way, buttoned up over a T-shirt and paired with classic tailored trousers or a tweed pencil skirt.
What reviewers say: “Super soft and very comfortable! Goes very well with any outfit.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $36.99
Khaite The Scarlet Cardigan
Best Designer Cardigan Sweater for Women
- Size Range: XS to XL
- Colorways: Barley and black
- Fabric: 100% cashmere
- Care: Dry clean
- Nordstrom Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8/5 stars
Khaite’s luxurious cashmere knitwear is the stuff of sweater dreams. The Scarlet cardigan is a foundation piece that has gotten a lot of buzz, infamously worn by Katie Holmes with a matching knit bra, creating a look that instantly went viral. The cardigan’s roomy shape is all about elevated ease. Exaggerated sleeves give off a borrowed-from-the-boys feel, while ribbed detailing that trims the sleeves, pockets, and hem feel extra special. Whether you choose to dress up with a skirt and heeled boots or simply pair it with straight-leg jeans, this investment sweater will live in your closet for a lifetime.
What reviewers say: “Amazingly beautiful sweater. Pictures don’t do it justice. So lofty, warm and just plain gorgeous. You can’t not love it.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $1980
Khaite The Scarlet Cardigan $1,980 Buy Now at nordstrom
Lululemon Merino Wool-Blend Ribbed Turtleneck Sweater
Best Machine Washable Sweater for Women
- Size Range: 0 to 20
- Colorways: Black and white opal
- Fabric: 40% Merino wool, 30% cotton, 30% recycled nylon
- Special Features: Naturally thermoregulating and made partially with recycled nylon.
- Care: Machine wash cold gentle separately and lay flat to dry
- Lululemon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.7/5 stars
Perhaps one of the most annoying parts of sweater dressing is the care and upkeep. If you often don’t have time for a trip to the dry cleaners or the patience to hand wash, look no further than Lululemon’s Merino Blend Turtleneck, a wardrobe classic that is completely machine washable. The relaxed fit ensures you won’t feel too constricted and allows you to layer a white tank top or tee underneath, should you want. The all-over ribbed texture brings a luxe feel to the overall look. Throw it on with yoga pants for a casual errand look or dress it up with a work-appropriate pencil skirt.
What reviewers say: “This sweater is gorgeous! It fits true to size. I love that you can dress it up with jeans or have a more casual look with leggings. Every time I wear it, I get compliments.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $138
Lululemon Merino Wool-Blend Ribbed Turtleneck Sweater $138 Buy Now at lululemon
Extreme Cashmere N°154 Care Cashmere-Blend Cardigan
Best Belted Cardigan Sweater for Women
- Size Range: One size
- Colorways: Beige
- Fabric: 96% cashmere, 1% elastane, 3% nylon
- Special Features: Crafted from a carefully sourced cashmere-blend of the highest quality
- Care: Machine wash at 30 degrees
- MyTheresa Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.7/5 stars
Boasting the warmth of a blanket, the silhouette of a jacket, and the relaxed appeal of an everyday sweater, belted cardigans have steadily made a case for themselves as a closet essential. Amsterdam-based brand Extreme Cashmere’s iteration is a wise choice because it’s a forever staple crafted with the highest-quality cashmere that’s soft and not itchy. Plus, it comes in a neutral beige colorway that looks effortlessly chic with anything. Treat it as a relaxed alternative to a blazer, and style it with wide-leg pants, a thin sweater, and chunky loafers.
Price upon publish date of this article: $417
Extreme Cashmere N°154 Care Cashmere-Blend Cardigan $835 $417 Buy Now at mytheresa
Lucky Brand Southwestern Cardigan
- Size Range: XS to XL
- Colorways: Neutral Multi Combo, Med Heather Grey Combo
- Fabric: 100% Cotton
- Lucky Brand Top Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.6/5 stars
Whether you’re a big fan of the hit Paramount series, “Yellowstone” or just love fun southwestern-inspired prints, the good news is that western fashion is one of the biggest trends this fall and winter. So lean into the look with Lucky Brand’s cardigan, a perfect way to bring some Montana style into your wardrobe. It’s knitted from an incredibly soft slub cotton that creates the striking southwestern pattern. Since the sweater is heavy, wear it on top of a denim shirt or cashmere turtleneck and finish with your go-to jeans and boots.
What reviewers say: “Great sweater! Well-made and fits according to size. It will be perfect for fall!”
Price upon publish date of this article: $149
Lucky Brand Southwestern Cardigan $149 Buy Now at lucky brand
Naadam Off-Duty Cashmere Hoodie
Best Cashmere Sweater for Women
- Size Range: XXS to 3X
- Colorways: Oatmeal, camel, white, peacock blue, black and granite, along with 5 limited edition colors
- Fabric: 100% Mongolian cashmere
- Special Features: Dry clean or hand wash cold and lay flat to dry
We all have a favorite hoodie sweatshirt that we love to come home to at the end of the day, but have you ever tried one made from cashmere? The “heavenly soft” material brings elegance to the signature sporty shape, making the hoodie appropriate for every day, not just the gym. Naadam’s version is relaxed and easy, with a large drawstring around the neckline. Made from the high-quality Mongolian cashmere the brand is known for, this knit is offered at a reasonable price that won’t break the bank. Pair with the matching cashmere jogger pants for a cozy look, ideal for traveling, coffee runs, and more.
What reviewers say: “I am very impressed with the quality of this cashmere hoodie! Many cashmere sweaters pill terribly after just one wear, but this one has stayed pristine after three consecutive wears. It is soft and comfortable to wear and is true to size. If in between sizes, I recommend ordering the size down.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $145
Cos Button-Embellished Striped Sweater
- Size Range: XS to L
- Colorways: Navy, beige/black
- Fabric: 100% RWS Wool
- Special Features: cCafted from 100% RWS-certified wool in alternating ribbed and plain stitches, adding texture to the knit.
- Care: Dry clean
Cos’ attention to detail makes the brand’s wardrobe staples stand out. This new striped sweater, a part of the label’s fall/winter collection, is made from RWS-certified wool, making it one of the most eco-conscious knits on our list. Luxe details like hammered-metal buttons along one shoulder, which can be worn open or fastened to create a high turtleneck, and a subtle stripe pattern make this classic design feel modern. The sleeves are extra long with a slight flare, adding to the nonchalant, everyday wearability. Lean into the simple elegance of the silhouette by styling it with a pair of trousers, pointed flats, and chunky earrings for an unfussy look that’s still sophisticated.
What reviewers say: “I have already worn this three times. It looks great with jeans and a crisp white blouse underneath. It’s oversized, but not sloppy-looking. Worth the splurge.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $135
Loulou Studio V-Neck Cashmere Sweater
Best V-Neck Sweater for Women
- Size Range: XS to L
- Colorways: Black
- Fabric: 100% cashmere
- Special Features: Made with OEKO-TEX®–certified materials that are free of harmful substances and made in a factory that meets Nordstrom Responsible Manufacturing criteria of higher environmental or social standards.
- Care: Dry clean or hand wash, dry flat
- Farfetch Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.1/5 stars
A V-neck sweater might seem like a simple item to source, but as Loulou Studio’s founder, Harrouche, describes what led her to develop this perfect interpretation of this closet must-have. “While I struggled with finding a V-neck cashmere sweater, this one has a boxy masculine shape but stays quite feminine with the slight crop,” she says. “This play on contrasts is one of the main design directives when we conceptualize in Loulou Studio.” This option is also great for petite women, thanks to the cropped silhouette that won’t overwhelm the frame.
What reviewers say: “If you are looking for a beautiful red sweater, this is it. I like that the v-neck is not too low.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $290
Loulou Studio V-Neck Cashmere Sweater $387 $290 Buy Now at farfetch
What to Look for in a Women’s Sweater
Women’s sweaters are as diverse as any other type of clothing. Whether you’re looking for sweaters for winter, sweaters for fall, or sweaters for spring, keep these considerations in mind when shopping for any type of women’s sweater.
- Material: “The weight and material is the best way to choose sweaters based on the time of year,” Harrouche says. Looking for natural materials such as cotton for the hotter months will provide breathability, whereas wool is generally used during winter when more warmth is necessary. Cashmere can play dual roles seasonally, depending on the gauge.
- Gauge: The gauge of a sweater is the measurement used to determine the stitch count in an inch of knitted fabric. Various gauges will impact their density and warmth factors. Fine gauge will often represent lighter-weight fabrics, while heavy-gauge creates thicker knits. Cashmere, for example, when knitted in a fine gauge, can be very lightweight and thin, which will work for warmer months, or it can be knitted in a heavier gauge technique for warmth.
- Silhouette: The best part about sweaters is that there are a plethora of different shapes on the market. From cardigans to pullovers, turtlenecks, and more, choosing the right silhouette for your body shape that feels most comfortable personally is far more important than choosing a trendy design. Trial and error will help you to determine what silhouettes you gravitate to most and what works best for you.
- Price: The materials that the yarn is made from will impact the price point of the garment. Polyester, acrylics, and nylons will be less expensive than natural materials like cotton and cashmere, which require more intricate production processes. When possible, look for recycled materials and blends that offer a higher quality yarn at a fraction of the price.
The Different Types of Women’s Sweaters
- Crewneck sweater: The most classic sweater shape is generally the crewneck. Inspired by the popular cut of athletic tees and sweatshirts, the design quickly became popular in the knitwear arena, as well. Whether thin, chunky, or ribbed, a crewneck sweater is one of the most popular types in a women’s wardrobe.
- Turtleneck sweater: Categorized by a long collar that is pulled over around the neck, the turtleneck offers coverage and added protection value. Of course, turtleneck knits can be made thin or thick depending on the gauge, but turtlenecks can often be worn in lieu of a scarf when neck protection is required.
- Hooded sweater: “A hoodie for ease and comfort when traveling,” Harrouche adds as a must-have on her list. A street style favorite silhouette, the hoodie needn’t be reserved for only fleece sweatshirt materials. Today, hoodies have found new life, with designers often offering the shape in luxurious yarns, such as 100% cashmere.
- Cardigan sweater: A cardigan is a sweater with an open front. It can be worn closed, with buttons or zippers, or left open and unfinished without closures. Cardigans are generally cut in either crewneck or V-neck shapes and were inspired by British uniform waistcoats. Cardigans are having a moment, and the good news is that there’s something for everyone. In the fall 2023 collections from designers like Miu Miu, Molly Goddard, Max Mara, and Luisa Spagnoli, we saw everything from shrunken and cropped styles to oversized and belted sweaters. According to the runways, you should team them with pencil skirts or tucked into trousers and more oversized, chunky cardigans with cozy pants like baggy jeans.
- Novelty sweater: A novelty sweater can be anything from something with interesting knitting techniques to color and pattern play, texture, and more. “Something that is more visual either in its color, pattern, or shape,” Harrouche explains. Novelty knits are generally statement-making and can become a focal point for any outfit, whether dressed up or down.
- Mock Neck Sweater: It’s time to test drive the mock neck sweater. A mock neck sweater is similar to a turtleneck; however, the neck is about half the length of a turtleneck’s, perfect for those who feel a turtleneck is suffocating. The silhouette comes in many different styles, like thin mock neck sweaters that work beautifully as a base layer or chunky mock neck sweaters that look great worn over a thin ribbed turtleneck for added warmth when it gets really cold. Gap, J.Crew, and Banana Republic are some of our favorite brands with the best mock neck sweaters of the season.
- Polo Sweater: Lean into the preppy aesthetic with a polo sweater. These are simple sweaters with collars made up of lightweight (soft ribbed) knits, with some featuring buttons. Equal parts prim, preppy, and retro, polo knits are incredibly versatile. As seen on the fall 2023 runways at Tory Burch’s and Ralph Lauren’s shows, these tops can easily be worn with skirts, jeans, and tailored trousers.
- Sweater Vest: A sweater vest may not come to mind when first thinking of a women’s sweater; however, it’s a great option and a smart way to layer this season. Wondering how to pull off a sweater vest? If you’re heading to work, style your vest over a mock-neck top or classic white shirt and finish with trousers and Mary Janes. When meeting up with friends, team your sweater vest with a pleated midi skirt, ballet flats, and a lightweight jacket. Whether loose or fitted, cropped or longline, plain or patterned, sweater vests go with everything.
Women’s Sweater Trends for 2023
Left to right: Luisa Spangoli fall 2023/courtesy of Luisa Spangoli via WWD; Miu Miu fall 2023/courtesy of Giovanni Giannoni via WWD; Prada fall 2023/courtesy of Giovanni Giannoni via WWD; Pillings Tokyo fall 2023/ courtesy of Getty Images.
- Thin cardigans: Whether it be the ongoing preppy aesthetic or the rise of the stealth wealth trend, it’s clear that cardigans have made a comeback. On the fall 2023 runways, we saw these knits at Miu Miu teamed with a tulle skirt and with high-waisted trousers and pumps at Prada. However, what makes the cardigans new again is that they’re thin, delicate, and sheer without being super revealing. The key to nailing the look? Embrace tonal textures — and all the layers. Take a grey cardigan and button it up over a white T-shirt. Then, add an oversized blazer and a sweater over your shoulders — voilà!
- Solid grey crewneck sweaters: Designers like Prada and Miu Miu answered the call of sweater weather with sumptuous grey crewneck sweaters. Whether styled with a midi skirt and blazer at Prada or a zip-up sweatshirt, black leggings, and white sneakers at Miu Miu, this subtle knit instantly adds warmth and elevates any outfit formula. So, if you’re looking for an easy trend to experiment with this season, grab a grey crewneck sweater from high-end brands like The Row and Loulou Studio or more affordable labels like Reformation and J.Crew.
- Colorful turtlenecks: Black turtlenecks? We don’t know her. This season it’s all about statement turtleneck sweaters in vibrant jewel tones. For example, we saw an olive green turtleneck styled with a sequin skirt at Luisa Spagnoli, a long yellow cable knit sweater paired with knee-high boots at Isabel Marant, a bright orange turtleneck with cowboy boots at Philip Plein, a blue turtleneck sweater vest teamed with sheer skirt at Gucci, and a Kelly green turtleneck styled with a matching skirt at Givenchy.
- Cable knit sweaters: This fall, designers have taken the cable knit sweater from a simple closet staple to a full-on statement. As seen on the runways, especially at Pillings Tokyo’s show, these sweaters consist of intricate patterns and chunky textures at the forefront. When deciding how to style the piece, base the rest of the outfit around the sweater to ensure it stands out properly.
How to Wash and Care for Sweaters
Before buying a sweater, be sure to take a look at the care label and specifications. Seasonal upkeep of knitwear is essential to keeping it in a pristine, newly bought state. Plus, it will allow the garment to remain wearable over the years. “Natural knits are inherently durable, but they require proper care,” Harrouche says. “For my pieces, I do delicate hand washing with cold water and flat drying to keep their shape.”
Also, storage is an important factor to consider when it comes to sweater care. Be sure to avoid hanging sweaters when storing, as this will cause stretching of the garment over time. Once clean, fold sweaters into airtight containers or space bags to prevent damage or erosion from the elements (for instance, moths). Proper storage is as equally important in order to retain quality as is the correct washing methods.
How We Selected the Best Women’s Sweaters for 2023
Since 1910, WWD — often referred to as “the fashion bible” — has been the leading industry voice of authority for senior executives in the global women’s and men’s fashion, retail, and beauty communities, while also informing the consumer media that cover the market. Today, WWD’s breaking news and trend coverage continues to be a trustworthy resource for both fashion insiders and consumers alike. Our shopping editors continue to uphold WWD’s editorial standards and values with quality, expert-backed product selections.
Through interviewing experts, researching the contemporary fashion market, considering retailers and brands with top Google Store Badges, and comparing customer reviews, we rounded up the best women’s sweaters for 2023. We also tested and picked products from brands that we have extensive experience with. Therefore, we can speak to the quality of the brands and the items, so that we ensure our readers are getting an expertly curated selection that won’t disappoint. Each item chosen has been vetted to make up the 15 that we see as the best today. Learn more about us here.
Meet the Expert
Chloé Harrouche is the founder and creative director of Loulou Studio. With a background in fashion consulting for nearly 10 years, Harrouche finds inspiration in art, architecture, and Paris, her muse. Her intuitive yet exacting design process drove her to establish Loulou Studio in order to offer a timeless wardrobe of everyday essentials. Also, the brand’s Creative Director, Chloé Harrouche creates powerful collections blending comfort, detail, and structure, reflecting a bold, authentic take on the feminine silhouette.
Meet the Author
Kristina Rutkowski is a New York-based freelance writer and editor focusing on fashion. She was previously the Senior Fashion Market Editor at InStyle, covering everything trends and shopping. She has also worked in the fashion departments at Self and Glamour. Her bylines have appeared on Vogue.com, TheZoeReport.com, VanityFair.com, and InStyle.com. Rutkowski owns many sweaters, but she also canvassed the market and interviewed a fashion designer and digital creator for input on the most important factors to consider when selecting women’s sweaters.
Nikki Chwatt is the Style Commerce Editor for WWD and Footwear News, where she both writes and edits stories on the latest clothing, accessory, and shoe must-haves. As a city dweller, she’s garnered a love for sweaters because they can be easily thrown on and worn for brunch with friends, date night, or the office. In her spare time, Chwatt keeps up with street style to understand which pieces are highly coveted by the style set. Chwatt wrote the update to this best sweater for women’s story on September 26, 2023, with new expert tips and styles to wear for fall and winter of 2023.