The most popular sweater fabric is wool, which is both warm and soft. Another natural fiber that’s especially soft is cashmere, which comes from the undercoat of certain goats.
Other fabric types include cotton (which is breathable but doesn’t keep you as warm), acrylic, and mohair. Also consider the fit and neckline of your sweater. For example, V-necks elongate the neck and are flattering for pear-shaped or apple-shaped bodies.
1. Wool
Wool sweaters are one of the warmest fabrics to wear in cold weather. The natural crimp and scales of wool fibers create tiny air pockets, which act as effective insulators. Light merino wool keeps you warm without bulk and breathes well, wicking perspiration away from your skin to keep you cool and dry. It also regulates body temperature and is odor-resistant.
Add a wool cardigan over a sports shirt for an easy-to-wear layering piece that will keep you cozy and look polished. Choose a wool blend with cotton or silk for added softness.
2. Woolly Pully
A wooly pully sweater is an ideal choice if you need a warm and durable sweater that will keep you dry, comfortable and warm in the coldest conditions. Its tightly knit construction traps your body heat and keeps new cool air away from you.
Originally developed for the SAS and Bomber Command during WWII, this heavy wool rib knit crew neck commando sweater is hardwearing and has nylon shoulder and elbow patches. This makes it perfect for hiking, camping and outdoor activities. It also features a fitted cut and is available in sizes small to XXL.
3. Guernsey Stitch
Based on the sweaters worn by local fishermen, the guernsey’s close stitching and tightly twisted yarn makes it windproof. The original sweaters featured diamond-shaped gussets at the underarm for ease of movement, and specific stitch patterns resembling aspects of coastal life like ribbing at the top of the sleeve to mirror a sailing ship’s rope ladder and stitching on the shoulders representing pebbles, stones and sand.
Knitted with bulky weight yarn, this men’s sweater offers a rich, hefty texture to keep you warm. It also knits up quickly, so you can start wearing it as soon as the weather turns cold.
4. Puffed Sleeves
Puffed sleeves have been a big trend this Winter. From mighty balloon sleeves on sweaters at Fendi to billowing sleeves attached to pleated shirt dresses at Rodarte, this style is romantic and feminine. Narrow-shouldered clients really love this look, but it works for broad-shoulders too. For a more modern take on the look, try a bubble sleeve sweater like this one from Do And Be or this one from Red Haute. Pair it with some vegan leather leggings and booties for a fashionable Winter outfit.
Remember to balance fullness in your outfit with slim cuffs, or show some skin on your feet with sandals. This is especially important if your top has a long or midi length.
5. Mock Turtleneck
When it comes to sweater vs sweatshirt that fuse style and warmth, few garments are as iconic as the turtleneck. Originally worn as battle garb by knights in 15th-century Europe, this piece now oozes sophisticated elegance. Wear a mock turtleneck under a blazer for a smart look or dress up sweats with one for a casual ensemble. They’re also perfect for layering — the defined ridge of the higher neck looks elegant next to the lower collar of a t-shirt or dress shirt.
Also known as polo necks and skivvies, this type of sweater is often woven with fine wool that’s slimming and smart. This is a style that suits both men and women.
6. Cutouts
A bold trend this season, cutouts sweaters show off a hint of skin for a fashion-forward look. The cutouts may be slits, holes or lace-up details. Wear a cami or bralette under the sweater to avoid overexposure. Add a skirt or a pair of high-waisted pants for a polished outfit that works for parties, work and everything in between.
Although a knitted wool garment with finger size holes would seem like it could let cold air escape, the crimped fibers hold air pockets that insulate your body.
7. Cowl Neck
A draped neckline like a cowl neck adds comfort and style to a sweater. These tops work well with pea coats or other styles for a casual or formal look. This tunic-length sweater has a cute fringe hemline and comes in Ree’s fave turquoise color! Plus, it’s made with humanely sourced alpaca wool.
If you love the look of a turtleneck but find them itchy or restrictive, this cowl neck pullover is your solution! This knit top is made with a cozy waffle stitch and jersey trim.
8. Cable Knit
A classic in cold-weather wardrobes, cable knit sweaters are known for their intricate woven designs and sophisticated style. The quintessential sweater material, wool, is insulating and repels water, helping you stay comfortable while facing harsh winter elements.
While both fisherman and cable knit sweaters use the same knitting technique to create distinct textured fabrics, cable knit sweaters are primarily worn for fashion and style, whereas fisherman sweaters incorporate regional motifs and designs reflecting fishing communities’ cultural heritage. Both offer a variety of patterns and textures that complement other winter accessories for a polished look.
9. Stripes
A striped sweater is the perfect knit to transition you from fall into spring. The light or dark stripes pair easily with your leather pants now and your white jeans later on.
A trendy take on the classic Breton stripe sweater, this oversized pullover will elevate your wardrobe. It’s knitted in Woolfolk Flette – a cozy and plush 100% Ultimate Merino yarn. Choose high or low contrast stripes in any of our signature colors to create your ideal sweater. You can also add a touch of personality by choosing multiple colors for a vibrant look.
10. V-Neck
V-Neck sweaters are a staple for anyone looking to keep warm while still feeling stylish. They can be paired with a collared dress shirt and tie for a more formal outfit or with a plain white undershirt for an effortlessly casual look.
For warmer weather, a cotton v-neck can be worn on its own or used as a coverup over a bathing suit. These sweaters feature smooth performance yarn that resists pilling and fading. Pair these with women’s dark wash jeans and a leather jacket to make an impression. Visit 5 Difference Between for more information!
