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The 23 Best Sweaters For Winter

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by Scarlett James
Updated: 
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Without a doubt, the very best sweaters for winter are cozy and soft — and some are a little more special if you're looking for one to wear around the holidays, while others are ideal as everyday closet staples. From iconic Fair Isle patterns to luxe cashmere, warm winter sweaters can elevate your look and your mood.

If you're shopping with ultimate comfort in mind, a chunky oversized sweater over a pair of fleece-lined leggings will see you through snow days and WFH alike. When it’s too cold for a classic tee, choose from everything from a thick cable knit to the impossibly soft teddy fabric or a funnel-neck tunic — they’re your new casual basics. If you’re after a sweater with major seasonal vibes, consider a plaid (a windowpane plaid adds pattern without going overboard). If you like the effortless style of a patterned sweater but want something a bit more versatile, a leopard print or color-block sweater both make stylish alternatives. Lastly, an on-trend wrap or cardigan sweater are both nice enough to wear for dinners and holiday parties, but you might find yourself wearing them just because.

Most budget-friendly sweaters come in blends of acrylic or cotton, and viscose shows up in silky knits as well. You can find warm winter sweaters in cotton and merino wool — and there’s always cashmere when you’re ready to do it up right. From cult favorites to luxe finds, these are the best sweaters for winter you can find.

1The Chunky Sweater You’ll Want In Every Style

This chunky cable-knit sweater has a generously oversized cut that you’ll love sinking into on a cold day. The fold-over neck is extra cozy, and the sleeves are roomy, with ribbed cuffs. The 100% acrylic material is super soft and machine-washable — just let it dry flat. Reviewers have recommended sizing up if you want an extra oversized look.

According to a reviewer: “Warm enough to wear on its own when it’s chilly/slightly cold. Wore a thin long sleeve base layer for a colder day. Baggy/roomy but sleeves and neck give it a great shape.”

  • Available sizes: Small — X-Large
  • Available colors and styles: 17

2A Chic Funnel-Neck Sweater With A Perfect Fit

This soft winter sweater has a brushed finish that helps take the bite out of cold days. With a rolled funnel neck and slim tunic-length cut — plus extra-long sleeves for a snug feel — it's casual comfort defined. Woven from a synthetic blend with a touch of wool and spandex, this easygoing piece looks hefty but feels light as air. Hand washing is recommended, but several shoppers had good results on a gentle cycle that finished with an air dry.

According to a reviewer: “Great for layering. The weight of this sweater is nice because it is good on its own, and fits well under a vest, or a second layer sweater. Soft and comfortable with a perfect fit.”

  • Available sizes: X-Small — XX-Large
  • Available colors: 16

3A Plus-Size Turtleneck With Basketweave Sleeves

Cozy and classic, this turtleneck sweater falls below the hips and has drop shoulders for a slightly oversize silhouette. The sweater has a rib-knit hem, and the lantern sleeves have a contrasting basketweave design. Made from soft and durable polyester and acrylic blend, this warm sweater will likely stand up to machine-washing, but you’ll want to lay this flat to dry.

According to a reviewer: “This sweater is perfect. The length was just what I wanted. I am over 5’ 9” so I do think it could be a bit long for someone shorter. It’s not too bulky or heavy. I will be wearing this a lot this winter.”

  • Available sizes: 16 Plus — 24 Plus
  • Available colors: 2

4This Trendy Wrap Sweater For The Perfect Date-Night Outfit

This cute belted sweater dresses up so easily. Made from a machine-washable blend of silky viscose, soft rayon, and durable polyester, the rib knit is cut with on-trend bishop sleeves and a belted peplum waist, with an open back that's tacked in place so it won't slide off your shoulders. For a more relaxed look, also consider this wrap-front sweater.

According to a reviewer: “I was surprised by how much I ended up liking this sweater! The material is thicker than I expected... I was hoping it would be thinner and have a better drape, but I actually like it more that it's thick and holds a shape really well in the peplum ruffle. The v-neck sits just at the edge of my bra straps and there's a strap across the back that keeps it from falling off your shoulder [...] The green is a lovely, rich emerald with a touch of blue. Overall I'm very pleased.”

  • Available sizes: Small — X-Large
  • Available color and styles: 15

5This Thick Sweater With An Apres-Ski Vibe

A quintessentially “winter” pick, this Fair Isle-inspired sweater would look right at home during après-ski — but it’s just as good for everyday wear (even if you’re nowhere near the slopes). The thick-knit sweater features a high crew-neck design and is made from a machine-washable blend of cotton, polyester, and acrylic, along with 3% spandex for a comfy bit of stretch. One of the warmest winter sweaters on the list, it comes in a range of patterns, all of which just might motivate you to cozy up with a cup of hot cocoa while you’re wearing one of them.

According to a reviewer:

  • Available sizes: X-Small — XX-Large
  • Available colors and styles: 11

6This Fan-Favorite Cardigan With Patch Pockets

With a classic cable-knit detail and a hem that falls to the mid-thigh, this plus-size cardigan is the kind of thing you’ll want to slip on every morning. The textured sweater features roomy patch pockets, and is machine-washable and dryer-safe at a low heat setting. Made from 100% acrylic, the sweater is a fan-favorite, too — it’s earned a 4.6-star overall rating after more than 1,200 reviews.

According to a reviewer: “I wish I could give this sweater more stars, I really love it. It looks just like the photo and is very soft. [...] his is a nice heavier knit that will keep you warm all winter. The sleeves are nice and long so there won't be any cold wrists this winter. Really, it feels like snuggling up in your favorite blanket. As soon as I got it I put it through the washer and dryer. It came out of the laundry even softer than it went it.”

  • Available sizes: 1X — 5X
  • Available colors: 4

7The Basketweave Sweater That’s Perfectly Cozy

With a slightly oversize fit, this basketweave sweater has a cozy look and feel, and is the kind of staple you can pull out of your closet and put on without a second thought. The best part about making this part of your frequent rotation? It’s machine-washable for easy upkeep (although reviewers have recommended letting it air dry or machine-dry on a low heat setting). This neutral sweater also comes in brights, and has a chunky rib-knit hem and cuffs, as well as a rib-knit rolled turtleneck.

According to a reviewer: “I really wanted an oversized fit but not so big it was sloppy... this is perfect! Right out of the bag it seemed a tad smaller than I wanted but after steaming & wearing it for a couple of hours, the fabric loosened up & the sweater grew a bit so now it’s the perfect fit. I was surprised at how great the quality is as well! The colors are beautiful and it’s super soft. I washed it on delicate, hung to dry & then just tossed it in the dryer on air fluff for a few minutes.”

  • Available sizes: Small — XX-Large
  • Available colors and styles: 32

8A Windowpane Plaid Turtleneck That’s So Versatile

For something subtler than Fair Isle that still brings a pop of pattern, a minimalist windowpane plaid looks great with everything year-round, from hiking boots and jeans to a pencil skirt and stilettos. This plaid sweater has a light fleecy feel in a felted blend of viscose with nylon and polyester, although it needs to be hand-washed to look its best. Amazon shoppers reported this pick was soft, comfy, and super cute with overall decent quality.

According to a reviewer: “Really high quality - immediate compliments! Very soft and cozy material. Fit is slightly oversized, but I enjoyed the cozy slouchy feeling of it. Can easily be dressed up or down in the black and white window pane colorway.”

  • Available colors: 8
  • Available sizes: Small — X-Large

9A Fabulous Leopard-Print Plus-Size Sweater

Leopard print is a year-round neutral, and this patterned sweater is one to reach for when you want to appear dressed up without trying too hard. Made from synthetic cotton that can be washed on a gentle cycle, the medium-thick sweater has a classic crew-neck cut and falls to the mid-thigh — perfect for pairing with leggings. Get it in the army green pictured here, or opt for neutrals like khaki and white.

According to a reviewer: “This is a very soft and comfortable sweater. I am 5'7 and 195 lbs. I ordered the 2X because I wanted it to be a bit oversize. It was long enough, just like a tunic, to wear by itself or with leggings or jeans.”

  • Available sizes: X-Large — 4X-Large
  • Available colors: 5

10This Color-Block Sweater In 100% Cotton For Effortless Style

This simple sweater is anything but basic with a bicolor weave on the arms that’s visually interesting without going overboard. You’ll reach for this when you need effortless style — pair it with any of your basics and you’re ready to go. In 100% cotton, it's fully machine-washable, though the fine kit should be air dried flat. Don't be fooled, though — there's plenty of weight to keep you warm.

According to a reviewer: “super cute sweater. love the all the colors together. I'm 5'3 about 140 pounds and ordered a medium and it fit perfect. The sweater does hit right at the waist. The sweater has a good thickness to it. I would say it is more of a casual type of sweater, but not overly so that you can't dress it up.”

  • Available sizes: X-Small — X-Large
  • Available colors: 10

11This Textured Cardigan That Dresses Up Or Down Easily

An embellished cardigan like this one from Chicwish is just what you need in your closet for snow days. It pairs perfectly with a dressier tank and trousers for when you need a more polished look, but it also looks (and feels) beyond cozy when paired with your favorite tee and broken-in jeans.

According to a reviewer: “I get so many compliments on this sweater! I love it, it’s simple, it’s warm and adds a fun element to every outfit. The pom poms make it unique and trendy. The material does pull, but that’s something that happens with most sweaters. Be gentle with washing.”

  • Available sizes: X-Small — XX-Large
  • Available colors: 2

12A Soft Teddy Pullover Sweater Practically Made For Leggings

I dare you not to stock up on every color once you feel the fabric. Amazon shoppers “absolutely love” this soft budget sweater with a long tunic fit and mock neck that looks (and feels) so much cozier than a standard sweatshirt. The teddy fleece has a downy-soft finish that can go in the wash, just let it air dry to maintain that raved-about texture.

According to a reviewer: “This is my absolute favorite sweater! It is very warm and soft. I ordered a green one as well. I am 5’7 and 135 pounds and ordered a small. Fits loose without looking like you are wearing a tent. So cute with jeans and a scarf. I can only wear this on the coldest of days due to it being so warm. Score!”

  • Available sizes: Small — XX-Large
  • Available colors: 18

13A Luxe 100% Cashmere Sweater You’ll Have Forever

A cashmere sweater pays off with soft warmth that wears so well. The most luxurious sweater on the list, the two-ply cashmere is woven in a thick twelve-gauge knit that’s heavier than most, making this a great deal of excellent quality. For a more budget-friendly (and machine-washable) alternative, consider this great merino wool crew-neck sweater with a clean finish or a cotton cable-knit sweater if you love the cozy pattern.

According to a reviewer: “I bought the navy pullover to be a lightweight but warm garment that would take a minimum of space in my suitcase when I am traveling. This is a flat, thin knit, very soft, with a fairly straight body and a plain crewneck. No cable stitches to add bulk! I always wear the sweater with a thin T shirt underneath, and sometimes I add a silky scarf or a necklace. It is a very basic layering piece; can be worn in many situations.”

  • Available sizes: Small — X-Large
  • Available colors: 4

14This Plus-Size V-Neck That’s A Great Closet Staple

Whether you wear it on its own or layer it under a blazer (or over a button-down), this V-neck sweater is a closet staple that offers tons of versatility. Offered in a range of solid colors, it’s made from a combination of breathable cotton, warm polyester, and super soft modal. It’s machine-washable, but should be laid out flat to dry.

According to a reviewer: “I really like this sweater; it's very soft and warm, but it's not bulky at all, so I've been able to wear it underneath other tops, mostly tanks and camis, to add a warm layer for cold weather. Normally I like long sweaters, and this one stops right at the waist, but that's actually perfect for layering since I can tuck it in if I need to...”

  • Available sizes: 1X — 6X
  • Available colors: 12

15The Lightweight V-Neck In 34 Colors & Prints

If you want the option to layer, this lightweight V-neck is a well-reviewed option, and it comes in a wide range of colors and prints, including leopard, hearts, and stripes, so you can express your personal style and switch up your look any time you like. It has a close but comfortable fit, with ribbing at the collar, cuffs, and hem. Made from a cotton-modal-polyester blend, it’s machine-washable but should be laid flat to dry.

According to a reviewer: “Thin knit. Perfect for layering. I’m impressed with the quality and fit. I was looking for a value priced basic with decent quality so it would stand up to regular washing and still look new. Great colors and bought both gray and light blue.”

  • Available sizes: 3X-Small — XX-Large
  • Available colors and styles: 34

16This Style-Forward Sweater With A High-Low Hem

Equal parts cozy and stylish, this turtleneck sweater with a high-low hem has racked up 15,000 perfect five-star reviews. This unique pick features a center seam, dramatic drop shoulders and ribbed cuffs that reach all the way up to the elbows. The manufacturer recommends washing by hand, but several reviewers have had success machine-washing it on a gentle cycle and then air drying.

According to a reviewer: “I love this loose swingy sweater. I love the loose look but I could have easily sized down 1 or 2 sizes. The material is exceptionally soft and forgiving. I wore it yesterday to work with black leggings and knee boots and felt fabulous. [...] Colors are gorgeous and the sleeves extra long. I hate turtle necks but this one is soft loose and non confining.”

  • Available sizes: X-Small — X-Large
  • Available colors and styles: 31

17The Nautical Sweater With Stripes & Buttons

A nautical-inspired pick, this turtleneck sweater boasts a classic style, replete with oversized stripes and a button detail at the shoulder. An easy piece to dress up or down, it can be machine-washed (the maker recommends placing it in a laundry bag first), and then laid flat to dry. It has a relaxed fit, and is made with a blend of viscose, nylon, and synthetic material.

According to a reviewer: “I LOVE this sweater! It’s thick and cozy and extremely flattering. The gold metal buttons on the neck and shoulder make this garment feel super luxurious. The horizontal stripes hit me in all the right spots [...] The fabric has stood up well to washing in warm to cool water with like color clothing. Overall I’m extremely happy with this piece.”

  • Available sizes: Small — X-Large
  • Available colors: 13

18A Longer Cardigan With A Soft, Plush Texture

Falling to the mid-thigh, this open-front cardigan is as comfortable as your favorite robe, but polished enough to layer over basics any time you leave home. Patch pockets give upgrade the convenience factor (they’re roomy enough for your phone and other small essentials), making this a good item to put on when you want to go purse-free. Made from a soft and plush blend of nylon and acrylic, the long black cardigan duster also comes in colors like dark khaki, wine red, and royal blue, as well as a small handful of color-block designs. This sweater should be hand-washed and laid flat to dry.

According to a reviewer: “Super plush and warm and comfy. I ordered the navy blue and I love it. It's a pretty deep navy color and the fabric is just plain soft and snuggly. It's very flattering and warm. I am 5'8" tall and it hits me about the knees. Nice length and drapes nicely”

  • Available sizes: Small — XX-Large
  • Available colors and styles: 18

19This Classic Cable Sweater That’ll Never Go Out Of Style

If you’re looking for a timeless piece but want to stay within a reasonable price range, this fisherman cable-knit sweater is a fantastic option that’s earned rave reviews from buyers who have reported it “looks loads more expensive” than it is. Made from 100% cotton, the sweater is on the thick side, and has the benefit of being machine-washable, but should be air-dried to prevent shrinking. Besides soft colors like sage green and caramel, it comes in neutrals, brights, and stripes.

According to a reviewer: “Gorgeous Cable Stitching and a luxurious feeling yarn, soft, smooth and supple movement!!! Really Fabulous look and feel, dressy enough for work and of course looks great with jeans.”

  • Available sizes: X-Small — XX-Large
  • Available colors and styles: 21

20The Cropped Sweater With A Cross-Front Style

Perfect for pairing with high-waisted jeans or skirts, this cropped sweater with a cross-wrap front is undeniably cute. The unique design features a deep V-neck, lantern sleeves, and a tie blelt. Made from a blend of durable polyester plus soft viscose and polyamide, it has a slightly fuzzy texture that only adds to its coziness. It’s on the more delicate side, so plan to hand-wash and air-dry this beauty.

According to a reviewer: “Since I’m short the length is a more subtle crop, on someone tall with a long torso, this would be a full crop. Cute bell sleeves, and the waist tie can tie in the front or back. Much softer and more substantial than I expected right out of the bag. I really like this cute sweater, and I’m glad I came across it.”

  • Available sizes: X-Small — XX-Large
  • Available colors and styles: 21

21This Statement-Maker With Dramatic Sleeves

This statement-making sweater comes in clutch when you need a piece that’s a little more style-forward — but still want to stay warm in cold temperatures. The balloon-sleeve sweater features extra long cuffs, and soft shoulder pads give it just touch of retro-inspired flair. The fit is relaxed — not too snug and not too loose — striking a perfect balance of comfortable and polished. The material is 100% rayon, and can be machine-washed and laid flat to dry.

According to a reviewer: “Nice stark black and decent weight to the material- enough to make it opaque and look expensive. It is a little roomy around the waist so I would recommend wearing with a fitted midi skirt or skinny jeans to balance. Overall, I am really glad I ordered this sweater...”

  • Available sizes: XX-Small — 3X
  • Available colors: 4

22A Casual Sweater In Muted Color-Block Designs

This line of colorful sweaters has a chunky basketweave design for a breezy, casual look. The muted tones offer a laid-back aesthetic that’s perfect for pairing with denim, and you can choose from a range of color options, as well as styles with sporty stripes. The relaxed-fit sweater is made from 100% acrylic, and should be hand-washed or washed on a gentle cycle before drying flat.

According to a reviewer: “Love this sweater! The colors are bright, soft to wear and warm against the winter cold. Well made. Fits well.”

  • Available sizes: Small — XX-Large
  • Available colors and styles: 24

23A Fair Isle Sweater You Can Wear All Season

Although marketed as a holiday top, the Fair Isle knit is the timeless and fun winter pattern sweater to wear all season long. You can get it in muted geometric patterns but if you want to lean into the season hard, you can also score it in snowflakes and reindeer. The "warm without being stifling" acrylic/nylon blend should be soft and durable, too. This sweater is machine-washable, and though it’s not technically meant for the dryer, some shoppers have remarked it held up amazingly well in the dryer.

According to a reviewer: “Actually, I wore this so many times through the holiday season. Very cute with skinny jeans, it lays well as an oversized sweater without too much bulk - but it is warm enough to not have to wear anything under it. I was also impressed with how well it washes - washed and dried several times, there is no pilling or unraveling and only very minimal shrinkage on 1st drying.”

  • Available sizes: Small — X-Large
  • Available colors: 10

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