5 Sweaters You Need This Season

Snuggle up in the latest of-the-moment knits.

By Alana Wexman

Published September 15, 2023

Cardigan Sweaters

A stylesetter's staple, the classic cardigan sweater is a mainstay with mass appeal. Charmingly preppy and endlessly versatile, there’s no single way to wear fall's fresh takes, according to Shopbop Fashion Director Caroline Maguire. She suggests leaning into the jacket-like silhouette by layering it over floral dresses (ruffled renditions from Sea are the move here), or buttoning up ribbed styles from STAUD as a top—proof that there's nothing a cardi can't do.

Oversized Sweaters

From supersized satchels to baggy true blues, the season's It fit is all about outsized proportions—and knits are no exception. A relaxed silhouette lends an instant dose of cool to almost any look, says Maguire, who awards the outsized-on-purpose trend as a fall favorite. While a slouchy crewneck from MOTHER or a roomy quarter zip from STAUD perfectly complements denim, Maguire favors a more unexpected take—worn as a dress, an oversized sweater looks effortlessly chic with moto or western boots. Or, you can add polish with a slinky belt, sheer hosiery, and heels.

Cropped Sweaters

Cropping up everywhere: short-and-sweet knits. The abbreviated silhouette gives virtually every look a refreshing spin, from vintage-y polos to classic pullover sweaters & quarter zip styles. Plus, they’re a no-brainer for still-warm fall days when the forecast has your wardrobe in outfit limbo. As for ways to wear a cozy, cropped knit sweater? Maguire pegs shrunken styles and high-rise anything as a perfectly proportioned pair, “whether it’s a high-waisted jean, trouser, or skirt”. She notes options from Theory and Free People as ones to put on your knit list.

Textured Sweaters

Manifesting a supremely cozy existence this fall? A textured long sleeve sweater (a.k.a. the sartorial equivalent of a warm hug) is just what you need. From chunky cable knit crewnecks that channel collegiate chic, to textured Isabel Marant styles that pack artisanal charm, there’s a just-right option for every look. When it comes to styling nubby knits, Maguire stands behind a more-is-more approach: “I love blending textures with other textures, like an oversized cable knit with a great tweed pant or cord skirt.

Turtleneck Sweaters

When crisp temps call, tried-and-true turtlenecks answer. Fresh iterations on the iconic style run the gamut from cool and cropped to slouchy and oversized (as in, there’s a turtleneck for virtually every vibe). And with weights ranging from ultra-toasty to tissue-thin, the silhouette proves to be an ultra-versatile essential. Maguire nominates skin-tight takes as fall’s secret style weapon: “Everyone must have a slinky black turtleneck or mockneck to layer under cozy knits.” Get the layered look with super-fitted options from Vince, or snuggle up in luxe cashmere versions from Rag & Bone.