Fall sweater quick picks
Cashmere sweater: Quince Mongolian Cashmere V-Neck Sweater
Ribbed sweater: Zesica Turtleneck Batwing Ribbed Knit Jumper
Wrap sweater: Kirundo Wrap V-Neck Sweater
Turtleneck sweater: Everlane The Cloud Oversized Turtleneck
Off-the-shoulder sweater: H&M Off-The-Shoulder Sweater
We’re still a few weeks out from the official start of fall, but it’s not too early to start shopping for the cozy fall sweaters you’ll be wearing all season long. “For fall 2024, sweater trends are expected to embrace both comfort and style, with a focus on fashion-forward, unique textures and styles, statement collars and necklines, and classic, familiar silhouettes,” says fashion stylist and The Rescue Kit Company co-founder Risa Kostis. “The key sweater trends to look out for are preppy styles like collared, cardigan and turtleneck sweaters; sweater vests; versatile oversized chunky sweaters; asymmetrical and deconstructed designs; and textured sweaters featuring unique details (think exaggerated sleeves, 3D appliqué, etc.).” Stylist Catherine Bibeau notes that we should also expect to see fun color combos this fall. “Colorblocking is coming back with bold and bright combinations that are great for adding a pop of color to a neutral outfit, even if you chose to throw it over your shoulders,” she says.
Before you add every cute sweater you come across online or in the store to your cart, there are a few things you should keep in mind. “Consider your personal comfort level when shopping for quality sweaters,” says stylist and author Lindsey Bernay. “Do you run hot or cold? A chunky sweater may be adorable, but if it doesn’t fit your lifestyle, it’s just going to take up space in your closet.”
You’ll also want to pay attention to the material. If you’ve dealt with an itchy sweater before, you know just how uncomfortable it can feel. New York City-based fashion stylist Nejla Renee recommends purchasing sweaters made from natural materials if you want something that will last longer and feel better to wear. “Wool can obviously be a bit itchy, so lean more towards cashmere for warmth,” she says. “Luckily, there are a lot more price point options these days for cashmere because of brands like Quince, Naadam, Uniqlo, etc.”
Lauren Ross, the lead stylist at lookingGlass, also agrees that opting for sweaters made from natural materials is the best way to go. “When possible, opt for natural fibers such as wool, cotton, silk and cashmere. Though they are more expensive, they will breathe better and last longer than man-made fibers,” she says. “Wool is known for being the most warm, so save these for the coldest days. Great options for something more lightweight would be cotton or cashmere, the most luxurious fiber. Acrylic is a man-made fiber that is affordable and keeps its shape, but shows wear quickly.”
Construction and care instructions are also important to keep in mind. “Check the care label before purchasing,” Kostis says. “High-quality sweaters, particularly those made from wool or cashmere, often require special care such as hand-washing or dry cleaning. Ensure you’re willing to invest the time and effort into maintaining the garment.”
To help you with your fall fashion needs, we tapped multiple fashion experts for their picks of the best comfy, fashion-forward cardigans, jumpers and vests — all $50 or less — worth buying this fall.
“This funnel-neck-style sweater is a great pick from Amazon,” stylist Desiree Miranda says. “Thanks to its 100% cotton fabric, it will be lightweight for the fall and easy to layer.” For styling purposes, she suggests pairing this machine-washable sweater with midi or maxi skirts and high boots. “Next, you can wear it with simple jeans and a statement belt for an easy weekend-wear look,” she says.
“Preppy chic is here to stay, and we’re seeing a lot of variations of vests for fall 2024,” Kostis says. This sleeveless V-neck sweater, available in white, navy and beige, can be paired with everything from bubble-hem skirts to slacks. “I love the cropped length of this pullover varsity vest, and the price point can’t be beat if you’re going to experiment with this trend,” she says.
If you’ve never browsed Target’s clothing section before, you’ve been missing out. This adorable sweater is available in three colors and in sizes XXS to 4X. “A modern take on a timeless classic with bow designs!” Bibeau says. “This stylish cardigan is designed to hit just at the waist, creating a flattering silhouette that pairs perfectly with high-waisted jeans, skirts or dresses. The button-down front allows for versatile styling — wear it fully buttoned for a polished look or open over a tank top for a casual, laid-back vibe. The lightweight fabric blend makes this cardigan the perfect transitional piece!”
“You may be surprised to find cashmere options under $50, but Quince has an assortment of these amazing wardrobe staples,” Ross says. “Snag this V-neck option in a pop of red that is the color of the season.” If red isn’t for you, this cozy cashmere sweater also comes in 10 other colors.
Don’t sleep on Amazon when it comes to shopping for clothes. This sweater is perfectly oversized and available in over 27 colors. “A sweater dress is a great one-and-done fall option for a dressed-up casual look,” Kostis says. “This neutral style is a great length for boots, booties, sneakers or even heels.”
Renee recommends this on-trend polo sweater from Gap, which features horizontal stripes and is made from 100% cotton. Easily paired with jeans or comfy leggings, the split-hem sweater is available in four neutral colors.
Ross recommends this chunky cable-knit pullover from Amazon, which has “a luxe look that won't break the bank,” she says. It has ribbed cuffs and also comes in nine colors, including pink and orange.
This comfy-looking sweater from Mango, made from a viscose, polyester, polyamide and cashmere blend, has a ribbed hem and ribbed cuffs. “I feel like this sweater could very easily be dressed up or down,” Renee says.
“It doesn't get more classic than a Breton stripe, and this is a budget-friendly find that can be layered over a simple T-shirt worn with jeans or tied over your shoulders with a dress for transitional days when the weather is still warm,” Ross says. This cardigan can be bought in black or white and styled for work or more casual occasions.
“You can never go wrong with a fisherman cardigan sweater,” Kostis says. “I love that it can be worn in a variety of ways such as buttoned or unbuttoned, layered or on its own, and with a dress or even shorts and over-the-knee boots.”
This knit sweater’s lapel collar look is on-trend right now, according to Miranda. “It has a bit of nostalgia to it with a varsity kind of feel and is an easy casual look that will still make you feel stylish and fashionable,” she says.
Pull this cable-knit sweater on for the office, or save it for the weekends. “A fine knit, lightweight V-neck is one of those classic pieces that everyone should have in their wardrobe,” Kostis says. “It is an essential travel piece, a stand-in for those ‘I have nothing to wear’ days and a classic staple that will never let you down. I love the weight and feel of a thin piece like this, and I always recommend having a neutral color that will work in any styling situation.”
“I love the styling here; this is exactly the vibe for early fall, and it hits preppy and edgy all at once,” Renee says. Available in two colors, this chic-looking vest from Mango is made from a blend of viscose, polyester, polyamide and cashmere.
“Funnel- and turtlenecks are having a moment this fall, and this classic camel color is always a tried-and-true neutral color for fall,” Kostis says. “I love that it can be worn with anything from a leather mini skirt to tailored trousers.” Though this oversized sweater usually retails for $168, it is currently on sale in the Tiger's Eye and Blush Pink colors.
As a fan of the off-the-shoulder trend, Bernay recommends this cozy sweater from H&M. Featuring raglan sleeves, the slim-fitting sweater can be paired with everything from midi skirts to leather pants. “It’s a flirty way to show a bit of skin while staying cozy on cold days,” she says.
“I love this burgundy, which is a trending color for fall,” Renee says. “This sweater could easily be worn on its own or over something else as a layering piece, and it is still thin enough that it would also fit under a jacket if necessary.” Available in three colors and made from recycled acrylic, this smooth knit cardigan is the perfect way to add a pop of color to your look. “Versatile pieces like this are essential for those weird fall days when it's freezing in the morning, warm in the afternoon and freezing again later,” she adds.
“Crafted from a blend of alpaca, merino wool and recycled nylon, this sweater offers major softness and warmth, which is always ideal for colder fall temps,” Bibeau says. “This classic crew neck design is so versatile and can be worn dressed up or down from tailored pants to jeans. The ribbed cuffs and hem make for a flattering, comfy fit, too! You’ll always look put-together wearing a good quality crewneck sweater.” Though this sweater usually retails for $118, it’s currently on sale.
Having a cropped cardigan in your wardrobe is essential for the season, Bernay notes. “With a plush, cable-knit texture, flattering V-neck and the ever-appreciated pockets, it’s both stylish and practical,” she says of this cardigan from Amazon. “The cropped length keeps the silhouette modern, making it great for layering as the weather cools down.” Complete with buttons, this cozy cardigan comes in more than 12 colors, including an army green.
“Mango is really nailing all the trends this season,” Renee says. “I love the unexpected color combo again here and feel like this would be a great piece on its own or layered over a button-down.” The crewneck-style vest, made from a cotton, acrylic and wool blend, can be paired with cargo pants like on the model or a midi-length denim skirt.
If you’re looking to add some vibrancy to your wardrobe this fall, this knit jumper from Amazon is the perfect choice. “The mustard yellow shade adds a pop of color to the earthy tones of fall season,” Bernay says. To style it, she recommends pairing the jumper with “high-waisted pants or a neutral midi skirt for a balanced look.”
Not only does this ribbed knit sweater with balloon sleeves come in 11 colors, but stylist Michelle Barrett also notes that the wrap top style “works for most body types and flatters most shapes.”
“Designed with a loose, roomy fit, this sweater drapes effortlessly, offering a laid-back yet chic look that embraces the cozy vibes of fall,” Bibeau says. “Oversized sweaters are versatile and can be styled in countless ways whether lounging at home, running errands or meeting friends for coffee or lunch." This chunky sweater from Aerie is available in eight colors and is currently on sale. For a "casual, on-the-go look," Bibeau suggests pairing oversized sweaters with leggings or skinny jeans. You can also "throw it over a midi skirt and boots for an effortlessly chic ensemble,” she says.
This ribbed knit sweater from Mango features a high collar and is available in black, camel and green. “This sweater is perfect to layer under a blazer or jacket and is a great way to incorporate the high-collar trend,” says Ross. “Though it is a man-made fiber, it will retain its shape.”
“Burgundy is going to be a major color this fall,” Bernay says. “This boxy, cropped sweater style that hits at the waist pairs perfectly with skirts, tights and sleek Mary Jane flats, making it easy to look put together all season long.” Also available in taupe and ivory, this sweater is perfect for those chillier fall days.
“For a polished and preppy vibe, this cotton-blend sweater can be dressed up with trousers for the office or work with a baggy jean and sneakers for an effortless casual look,” Ross says. The vest, available in navy and white, has gold buttons running down the front and two front pockets.
“Gray is making a major comeback this season (who knew it went away!),” Bernay says. “The last few fall trends have been all about nudes. This year, gray is your go-to." This chunky knit sweater from Asos ranges from XS to L and is made from a polyester, acrylic, and nylon blend. “The open-neck polo style with a spread collar and regular fit is easy to wear and looks good on just about anyone,” she notes.
Bibeau says this chunky, cable-knit sweater “combines comfort, style and quality.” In addition to loving that it’s made from 100% cotton, Bibeau points out that the sweater hits at a “flattering point just below the hips,” and the sleeves aren’t too long. She also mentions that the “slight shoulder drop enhances the relaxed look without appearing sloppy.”
“A cable-knit is a cozy fall essential,” Bernay says. “With a classic round neck and intricate cable-knit design, this a great choice to add texture and style to your autumn wardrobe.” This one Bernay recommends is made from 100% cotton and comes in an oyster white color that’s perfect for fall.