Is there anything better than a cozy sweater? Just like when choosing a man, there are a few key things I look for before making one mine or choosing it as a gift. :)
First stop: materials. So often brands will call something cashmere, charge cashmere prices, and it’s only 10% cashmere and the rest is poly. I try to avoid anything with more than just a little of poly-anything. Natural fibers last longer, feel better, and are gentler on the planet. Cashmere, merino wool, lambswool, and alpaca are my go-tos for soft, cozy knits.
Next, I look at the design details: collar, sleeves, hem, and color. I love a thick collar, whether it’s a crew or v-neck. If it’s a turtleneck, it can’t be too tight on the neck. And it may seem silly, but the right color goes a long way. Not all tones of brown or navy are created equally.
And finally, fit. I love a mix of fitted, boxy, and oversized styles. The key is knowing what you like, what’s missing from your closet, and how it will work in your wardrobe.
If you’re choosing a sweater as a gift, think about what she reaches for most. Is she always in neutrals? Does she love a statement color or texture? A sweater she’ll truly wear and feel herself in is the best kind of gift.
Now, on to the fun part: my top picks. I went down a knitwear rabbit hole so you don’t have to! Every sweater here is beautiful in design, materials, and ethos. I even discovered a new to me brand that I’m drooling over, and my wishlist keeps growing.
A few notes: I put an * next to the ones I own, mention in the notes if I’ve tried it on in person, and made my wishlist pieces bold.
Mirth Cusco Cardigan - I’ve tried this one on in person and think about it often. I definitely regret not getting it. That’s the sign of a really good sweater! The one I tried on was black, but I actually like this color better.
Ozma Chleo Crew Neck - This one looks just so cozy and everything Ozma does is so good. So good that there are 4 Ozma sweaters on this list!
Suzi Kondi Jooshi - This is probably the softest sweater I’ve ever felt. If you’re in the market to splurge, you won’t regret it. Photos don’t do it justice!
Soft Goat Turtleneck* - I own this one in chalk and am IN LOVE! I bought it for our chocolate suede photo shoot and kept it because it’s incredible. It’ll probably make its debut on Thanksgiving and then be on heavy rotation for me all winter.
Sold Out NYC Polo - I love this style and color. I like that it’s a little different than your typical sweater. Definitely on my wishlist.
Not Monday V-Neck* - I have this one and love it. The v-neck has just the right amount of skin showing. It comes in several great colors and it’s currently on sale!
Buck Mason Highland Turtleneck - made of alpaca and merino wool, it’s a better price than cashmere and still really high quality. I also really liked the thick bands on the sleeves.
Almina Concept Wool - I’m not sure if this is itchy, but it’s 100% wool, so just keep that in mind, but it’s a beauty!
Almina Concept Oversized Wool - This looks like the perfect oversized cozy sweater. And it comes in 5 colors each as delicious as the next.
La Ligne Marin Sweater - Similar to the Amina sweaters, but with a little more cashmere in the contents (so may be softer). It also looks less oversized - so just depends on which fit you’re going for!
Lauren Manoogian Crew Neck - I love this brand and I thought this color was particularly beautiful and unique. I don’t think I’ve ever seen anything quite like it.
Alex Mill Maisie Turtleneck - I love this navy color so much right now and this is a great price for a cashmere turtleneck.
Vincent James Rose Cardigan - I love all things Vincent James and this sweater is a style I don’t have. Such a timeless beauty!
I don’t know if it’s because my husband is Scottish or if it’s because fair isle sweaters are “trending” but I’ve been really drawn to these classic styles lately. Here are my top picks:
Jenni Kayne Crew Neck - It’s a coin toss for which fair isle makes my wishlist and this edges the other two because I like this fit the best for me personally…I think. :)
Mirth Andermatt Cardigan - I love the stitching on this one. If it’s anything like the other Mirth cardigan above, it’s heirloom worthy!
Buck Mason Crew Neck - similar to the JK one, and honestly it’s almost a coin toss for me between them. I love the coloring on this one.
Ozma Cabin Cardigan - How good is this design?! it just gives me all the cozy vibes!
GWYN Cable Knit - If you’re looking for the most classic, heirloom quality sweater, this is it. It looks thick and well made and will last a lifetime.
Eleven Six Harper Sweater - This one is so beautiful in the details - the sleeves, the neckline, the colors. Really special…I’m rethinking my wishlist!
Jamie Haller Primm Turtleneck - I’ve been eyeing this for a few months now. It just looks so yummy. The Alex Mill one above is more affordable, but Jamie always nails it with fit, so I’m not sure what to do!
GWYN Cardigan - This one comes in a few other more “winter” colors, but I put it on here in blue because it’s the one I’m drooling over. It’s either this one or the Sold Out NYC one above…even though they are different in material and this one is a full cardigan, but I don’t need both.
Janessa Leone Bouclé Knit - An absolute stunner. The artistry on one is incredible.
Alex Mill 100% Cashmere - A classic, unisex sweater that comes in several colors. I love the Heather Walnut.
Mata Traders 100% Cashmere* - I just got this and it’s literally the best. It almost feels like I’m wearing a sweatshirt. This is going to be what I wear when I don’t want to think about it. Such a great price for fair trade cashmere!
Ozma Roll Neck - I feel like roll necks are everywhere right now and this one is perfection.
& Daughter Ada Cardigan - This is a new to me brand and I’m really impressed with their offering! I love that their products are made in Scotland from lambswool (there are more sheep than people in Scotland!). And I love the idea of a red cardigan for my closet. I can wear it over my shoulders, tied around my waist, or open for just a pop of color.
Mirth Wimberly Cardigan* - I bought this earlier this year and have absolutely loved it. It’s so soft - no need to wear anything under it. The perfect cropped fit.
Sea New York Cardigan - How cool is this one? I just love it! So perfect for any ski (or aprés ski) lover!
Eleven Six Mila Crew Neck - This one would make a great gift. A classic with just a little twist to make it all the more special.
& Daughter Innes Cardigan - This photo doesn’t do it justice. I love this color and you can really see the quality on the website.
Ozma Everyday Cardigan - Another red cardigan. :) A little boxier, more relaxed fit and this one is alpaca.
Ok I have to know… which one is your favorite?
And now for a little bonus for paid subscribers! I’m going to share three lesser-known, but really good knitwear brands, one of which is my favorite for really good colors. All three are 10/10 for design, ethics, and cool-factor!
