by Sarah Morrison
A good fall sweater is a lot like a good friend: reliable, loyal, and so easy to get along with.
Now, the perfect fall sweater? Well, let’s just say it ticks all the boxes. That best friend, in a sense. It’s built to withstand the many adventures that transpire in its lifecycle—every last pull, twist, stretch, steam, and even the unexpected tumble or two. It gets through it all and makes it look so effortless.
It also stands up in the style department, a given (but you knew that). The perfect fall sweater drapes wonderfully; it hugs in just the right places, fits easy through the body, and flatters in a way that makes you believe in magic. It’s sumptuous, with luxurious fabrication (think cashmere, pure cotton, and merino wool) that begs to be touched. It’s striking, often rendered in season-right tones like camel and burgundy, and oh—did we mention it’s also (yes, you guessed it) just so sumptuous?
That’s right, with all the intoxicating pleasures that fall brings—from cozy nights in by the fire, to the sensory adventure of a wine tasting at the vineyard (as is tradition!), adding a sumptuous fall sweater into the mix brings that indescribable experience to the next level.
Of course, the ways to wear a perfectly crafted sweater, be it a cardigan or pullover, are endless.
A chic sweater-blazer cardigan lends a healthy dose of polish to weekday staples, like easy shift dresses, or a tee and jeans. Mocknecks, a contemporary staple, are trend-right and flattering, while turtlenecks offer a timeless appeal that works with just about anything. As the temperatures drop, try your hand at monochromatic styling and smart layering. When paired together in a matching tone, a lightweight cardigan and a turtleneck create a look that could easily turn up in the pages of Vogue. Crewnecks have a place, too. Style them solo with a statement pant or layer over a cotton poplin shirt, chambray or flannel button-down (pro-tip: tuck the collar in for touch of sophistication, or leave it out for a preppier sensibility).
Now, as you ponder the ways to style these sartorial centerpieces, you may be racking your brain to determine the brands behind those sweaters you’ve spotted on your favorite celebs, or maybe swooned over while eyeing the style of passerbys on the street. Not to fret, for the ahead edit of need-it-now cozy knits, crafted with a little help from a near-and-dear Saved Instagram folder, is all you need for jogging your memory and expanding your shopping bag. Don’t say I didn’t warn you.
1. wilfred by aritzia
Luxe fabrics, effortless silhouettes, and careful craftsmanship all under one reasonable price point? Pinch me, I’m dreaming. Wilfred by Aritzia is truly that style compass we’ve been searching for, reinterpreting old favorites in romantic, vintage-inspired tones that marry perfectly with the brand’s feminine sensibility.
2. Reiss
The everyday, elevated. Reiss is a favorite for its luxurious weaves and super flattering cuts that do more favors than ever thought possible. The choice for the decidedly feminine fashion aficionado, Reiss is the wardrobe builder born to transform the desk-to-dinner circuit.
3. naadam
Launched in 2015, Naadam is a relative newcomer, yet is quickly becoming an authority on sustainable cashmere. Each one of their minimally-minded pieces is manufactured in a energy-powered plant (hats off for lowering carbon footprints!), and originates from a cruelty-free sourcing process called hand combing. Another perk? I’ll venture to guess the brand gets along with most of your wardrobe already.
4. AllSaints
A greatest hit. With a decidedly urban appeal, ultra-soft fabrications (think merino wool and lambswool) and flattering designs that feel as modern as ever, AllSaints is the enduring closet staple I’ll never tire of. What’s more? It doesn’t hurt that the price points are most certainly within reason, too.
5. whistles
The brand for the cosmopolitan fashionista in all of us, British-born Whistles is reimagining the statement sweater in more ways than one. Standout colors to suit the season, interesting cuts, and modern craftsmanship merge to offer a charming assortment of styles that will elevate any fall wardrobe.
6. Everlane
It’s all in the details. Everlane, a now cult-status closet staple, is iconic for its commitment to crafting thoughtfully designed pieces from some of the finest materials available today. The brand prides itself on its one-of-a-kind philosophy, partnering solely with top-tier ethical factories, and tracing every last cost accrued along the way. Ethical, transparent, and chic. How refreshing!
7. The Reset
“Curated. Coordinated. Made to Mix and Match.” The Reset says it best, and we’ll admit, this brand just might become our new work-to-weekend go-to. Ever since its launch in 2017, the affordable direct-to-consumer label has not wavered from its mission to become the ultimate destination for modern women in need of everyday essentials that are as hard-working as they are. With a collection of sweaters versatile enough to suit any one mood, The Reset is a fall must-have.
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