The best sweaters for women are a year-round staple, and with winter on the horizon, we have plenty of sweater-wearing days ahead of us. And let’s face it, depending on where you live, you might need a sweater for every season.
Much like our favorite jeans, the best sweaters are a style staple. From your wardrobe basics to a statement-making knit, a sweater is both practical and chic. Whether you want to learn how to dress simple but stylish, or you're on the hunt for a cozy number to snuggle up in on the sofa, there are a plethora of stylish sweater options out there and we believe you can never have too many.
"A sweater is a non-negotiable wardrobe staple in my eyes. Super versatile, if you find one that is the perfect shape, color and thickness for you, then you've won the fashion lottery,” says former woman&home style editor Joely Chilcott.
Best sweaters for women as chosen by our fashion expert
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When it comes to the best sweaters for women there are a number of things to look out for. Fabric reigns supreme in this instant and some natural fiber content will ensure your sweater has better breathability. The reason this is important is that your sweater can help regulate your body temperature, keeping you warmer, and trapping heat in when needed, but without making you sweaty. The best cashmere sweaters are an excellent example of this. However, natural fibers such as cashmere can be expensive, so look for wool blends, or synthetic fabrics for more budget-friendly options that will still keep out the chill.
When it comes to the fall 2022 fashion trends, oversized knits once again reigned supreme on the runway, with statement knits and plenty of color being key to keeping winter-ready looks directional this season. Collared knits that started strong in early 2022 remain a central silhouette, alongside festive iterations that will usher in the holiday season.
RRP: $118 / £143 | This versatile crewneck is available in an array of 24 colors, so if you've been wondering what color suits me, there’s no doubt you’ll find your perfect match here. Keep it classic by pairing it with neutral hues such as gray or camel.
RRP: $59.90 / £45.99 | A quirky knit that will form the centerpiece of an outfit, this sweater features a bold print to rival the best Christmas jumpers. Adding cheer to winter ensembles, style with jeans for a casual weekend ensemble.
RRP: $200 / £215 | Everlane makes incredible basics year-round, but we especially love the knitwear offering. Made to give the fuzzy look of mohair but without the itch, the Italian wool mix of this sweater will keep you comfy all day long.
RRP: $59.99 / £35.99 | Stripes are a timeless design, particularly when it comes to knitwear, but this half-zip silhouette adds some trendiness to the look. With an oversized cut, making it ideal for layering, you may want to downsize for a more snug fit.
RRP: $47.99 / £27.50 | One of the best sweater silhouettes this year, the sweater vest is an ideal layering piece. When it comes to how to style a sweater vest, slip this silhouette on over floaty dresses or floaty tops and blouses for a cozy, modern feel.
RRP: $99 / £75 | One of the biggest fashion color trends 2022, bring some dopamine dressing to your transitional wardrobe with this elegant alpaca and wool blend cardi, ideal for smartening up any outfit. We love the cozy ribbed detailing.
RRP: $69 / £45 | When it comes to wardrobe essentials, a slim-fit turtleneck is high on the list. For basics like this, you want to invest in quality materials, like wool that will be long-lasting and warm. From bright green to classic black, you can't go wrong.
RRP: $239 / £119 | Channel the latest trends with this neutral yet bold caramel check number, made from a cozy wool blend. If you're nervous of bold, graphic prints, opt for neutral colors like cream and tan for a more subtle and versatile iteration.
RRP: $195 / £145 | A graphic sweatshirt is ideal for adding a casual feel to any look, and we love Ganni's bold yet wearable designs. From pairing with the best sequin skirts to mom jeans, the Scandi brand has you covered for minimalism with a twist.
RRP: $295 / £225 | Mastering the art of the perfect party dress, Rixo's knitwear collection is worth checking out too. With a hugely festive feel, thanks to the bold red hue, this is one of the best sweaters for a more fashionable take on Christmas knits.
RRP: £45 (international shipping available) | Nothing says winter-ready quite like fluffy textures. Channel the handbag trends 2022 with this chic feathery knit that won't itch or irritate, ideal for styling with this season's furriest accessories.
RRP: $85 / £60 | When it comes to staples, you can’t beat a classic V-neck. Essential for a capsule wardrobe, this navy hue will take you from the office to evening drinks in style and comfort. Use a half-tuck into a high waist to show off your shape.
RRP: $325 / £299 | Florals are not just for spring. This chunky cropped knit by Sandro is the perfect balance of playful and practical, and is the ultimate piece for transitional weather. Team with the best cashmere socks for a toasty trendy finish.
RRP: $103.50 / £65 | For a stylish knit to throw over the warmest leggings for winter, we love the relaxed shape and teal hue of this space dye number. A great transitional piece, the mixed toned wool adds interest and brightness to your look.
RRP: £35 (UK only) | Who doesn't love a slogan knit? This sweater is the perfect seasonal piece that will work for what to wear on Christmas day, but can also be worn pre and post-the-big day. Style with everything from jeans and leather pants to skirts.
RRP: £69 (international shipping available) | Wondering how to style cargo pants? Pair the baggy silhouette of the trousers with ribbed knit sweater for a cool, casual and very comfortable look. Opt for a more fitted silhouette to balance out the width of the pants.
RRP: $79 / £59 | Featuring two shades of green, with lighter green on the front and dark green on the back, this knit embraces color without being too bold. The deep ribbed cuff and slightly relaxed fit through the body give it a laid-back feel.
RRP: $74 / £60 | Get the practicality of a sweater with the style appeal of a cardigan with this ballet wrap silhouette. Lilac remains big for the fashion trends 2023, ensuring this is a sumptuously soft style that you can carry through to next year.
RRP: £85 (international shipping available) | For an invest-now-and-wear-forever sweater, look no further. As versatile as a black knit but without the harshness, this grey marl option is high quality and ideal for work or play. We love the full sleeve too.
RRP: $210 / £99 | No wardrobe is complete without some leopard print. Hailed a neutral by the fashion crowd, made from merino wool, this sweater is cozy yet light enough to layer. Style under the best waterproof jackets for a practical winter outfit.
RRP: $830 / £620 | One of our favorite British designer brands, Molly Goddard knows how to make cool basics. This sweater is simple yet elevated thanks to the body and sleeve details that you won't find anywhere else. Workable with A-line skirts or jeans.
How to style a sweater
There really are no bounds when it comes to how to wear a sweater. Day or night, the best sweaters will work for any occasion when styled right.
“Sure, a sweater is great with jeans and trainers, but it also looks high-end when the front is tucked into flattering wide-leg trousers. Or re-work your party pieces by throwing a chunky sweater on with a sequin skirt to make it more casual,” says Joely.
The half-tuck is a fashion trick stylists swear by and it’s perfect if you feel like your figure is being swamped by an oversized sweater. The half-tuck involves just tucking in the front part of the knit into your trousers or skirt - as opposed to the whole knit which can look bulky - and it can help highlight your waist too.
When it comes to what to wear over a dress, try slipping on a sweater and add a belt over the top to help streamline your silhouette. Alternatively, slimmer knits can be layered under dresses for extra warmth.
How to choose the right sweater
Whilst every capsule wardrobe needs classic sweaters on rotation - think simple grey pullovers, fine roll necks, or a cream cable knit - you may want to consider tapping into some of the latest fashion trends 2022 to give your closet a bit of a new season spin.
Sweater vests are having a moment right now, offering a preppy, retro twist, they make great layering tools for early fall and spring seasons. We’re also seeing a lot of half-zip sweaters, adding interest and a sporty edge to the staple.
“This season, I've invested in the sweater vest too. A sleeveless layering option that can be worn over printed midi dresses or striped shirts for a transitional look,” says Joely.
Don't forget to consider fabric too. In the spring and fall, when the weather can still be surprisingly warm, breathable fabrics will help to regulate your temperature. Synthetic fabrics will be less breathable, but very warm and durable during the depths of winter.
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