Autumn signals the need for crisp-weather layers, but one reigns supreme: fall sweaters.
Despite hailing from very different climates — New York City, Atlanta, and Hawaii — our team has a penchant for cozy cardigans, mocknecks, and crewnecks. So, we turned to our own closets to find the best fall sweaters for every temperature, style, and budget.
Whether you favor ultra-soft cashmere or a chunky knit, we’ve compiled our tried-and-true favorite sweaters from Cozy Earth, Quince, Sézane, Lulus, Grey Bandit, and more starting at just $18.
“Just shy of $100, this sleek black cashmere turtleneck is not too thick yet oh-so warm. Layer it with a vest for chillier days or tuck it into your favorite pair of high-waisted jeans for a casual yet chic look.” —Madison Yauger, shopping editor
“This sweater is so soft and cuddly, but its versatility is where it really stands out. I can wear this crewneck to the office, to lunch with friends, or while snuggled up on the couch binging Gilmore Girls. Size up for a baggier, layered look; otherwise, it fits true to size.” —Erin Johnson, associate editorial shopping director
“I've worn this sweater on repeat for about two years and just bought it in a second color. The bodysuit aspect makes it easy to wear with high-waisted jeans or skirts and the material is soft and durable.” —Madison Yauger, shopping editor
“I love this medium-weight sweater with its whimsical green and white stripes. The boxy, relaxed shape has a vintage feel to it and is so comfortable. It especially pairs well with wide-leg jeans for a retro vibe.” —Madison Yauger, shopping editor
“Cardigans are the best sweaters for transitional weather, and this button-up is my go-to. Its flattering shape has a waist-skimming hem and drop-shoulder sleeves, and the fabric feels like cozy cashmere without the steep price. This sweater keeps me warm enough to go coat-free on 60-degree days, but it’s also a great layering piece for warmer outings with a fitted T-shirt underneath.” —Alyssa Brascia, shopping writer
“This turtleneck has a whimsical striped design and a surprisingly warm knit. The cropped silhouette wears well with high-waisted trousers for the office or jeans for more casual outings. It's cozy, soft, and will keep you toasty as fall turns to winter.” —Madison Yauger, shopping editor
“This sweater is so incredibly soft and lightweight. It's the ideal everyday cardigan, easily dressed up for work or down for outings with friends. I’ve owned a handful of -
Lulus sweaters over the years, and despite their affordable cost, they really last.” —Madison Yauger, shopping editor
“I'm obsessed with this sweater's oversized sleeves, large knit pattern, and adorable vintage look. It's so perfect with baggy pants or skinny jeans (yes, I'm still holding on) and tall or short boots. The large knit gives it an almost sheer style, so you can wear a colored tank top under it to get a beautiful contrast. And it's warm but not restricting or hot flash-inducing.” —Shalwah Evans, senior shopping editor
“It's rare to find cashmere that's not several hundred dollars, and this fisherman sweater from Quince balances luxury and cost. The sweater is quite soft, with a weave that helps block cold air on particularly chilly days, and its crewneck silhouette pairs well with a variety of bottoms like flare jeans and long skirts.” —Madison Yauger, shopping editor
“Whether I’m layering this sweater underneath a trench or styling it with my favorite pair of jeans, this pullover elevates any outfit with its nostalgic color scheme and statement stripes. It will have a place in my collection for years to come — I can even see my mom wanting to style it when I bring it home for the holidays.” —Alyssa Brascia, shopping writer
“French brand Sézane makes the most stunning, high-quality cardigans that will last you for years to come. I stole this one from my mom's closet two years ago (sorry, Mom), and I plan to invest in a couple more before winter hits. It's a gorgeous mix of elegant and tomboyish, with feminine buttons that contrast with the boxy, drop-shoulder fit.” —Genevieve Cepeda, shopping writer
“This sweater immediately caught my eye, but I went back and forth about how I would style it because it's a little more ‘vanilla’ than my typical style. But then I tried with a satin, striped button-up shirt and fell in love. When I got home, I styled it again with a printed turtleneck, and I knew I made the right choice.” —Shalwah Evans, senior shopping editor
“Layering is a must when you live in the South, as summer weather can stick around through November. I love the medium weight of this oversized fleece cardigan because I can wear it under a heavy coat when temperatures dip without it feeling too bulky. The ribbed cuffs, ‘worn’ seams, and button-front design allow you to easily dress it up or down.” —Kayla Kitts, shopping editor
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