An underappreciated yet absolutely necessary fall basic is the sweater. It's a little old layering piece you might not have shopped for in years, rotating between just one or two worn-out, neutral styles underneath that statement coat. But 2021 in particular is a big year for knits, and with so many different trends and silhouettes taking hold, you'll want to play a game of collect-them-all. From retro polos to vests, intarsia to colorblock, and cropped cardigan sets to the longline throwover, shop each category one by one, or scroll through this list to scan all our picks at a wide range of price points.
Worn oversize or shrunken, these provide an extra layering piece in our wardrobe this season. Our advice is to collect them in neutral colors first, although vests with standout prints can also make a statement on their own, without a long-sleeve underneath.
COS Striped Knitted Vest ($115)
Veronica Beard Collina Vest ($350)
Frequently seen in a sporty, cropped cut or with a half-zip down the neckline, the polo collar offers a preppy touch to a new set of sweaters that have a little something extra.
Jacquemus Neve Polo ($645)
Stella Jean Collar Top ($122, originally $405)
Think of this trend as an update to the cold shoulder jumper. Whether it's because these sweaters come in two pieces (tank and matching bolero) or because there's a cutout at the collar bone, we're getting an extra peek of skin that makes for a sultry touch, especially when the look is form-fitting.
Simonett Knit Bolero Set ($165)
Pistola Denim Jolene Sweater ($148)
When it comes to sweater trends, we're often more observant of a silhouette than a particular print, but the multitone trimmings and graphics are undeniable this season, so don't be afraid to think bold, rather than in neutrals.
Wray Harold Sweater in Block ($298)
Pastiche Pola Cardigan in Pale/Pink ($137, originally $195)
As a continuation to the bralette and cardigan trend Katie Holmes and Khaite stirred up last year, brands are offering all sorts of variations on what a two-piece can offer. While some come with full-length tanks, others have a foundation of a fitted shirt in a matching print or a similar gauzy fabric.
Babaton Emporia Cardigan ($198) and Babaton Overland Dress ($148)
Rouje Claudette Sweater ($185) and Rouje Jamie Cardigan ($230)
Maggie Marilyn Cardigan in Ivory ($202) and Maggie Marilyn Turtleneck in Ivory ($103)
Low Classic Boucle Sleeveless Knit ($195) and Low Classic Boucle Overfit Knit ($405 when back in stock)
We've seen crochet take off in a major way as stars like Olivia Rodrigo have repopularized the look from the early aughts and designers like Ella Emhoff have showed us how to DIY it. Now, the crochet sweater is here to stay, and shoppable in all forms at our favorite retailers.
Rachel Comey Shushi Cardigan ($525)
Tach Clothing Ester Sweater ($306)
The longline cardigan is luxe, oversize, and as comforting as ever as we transition from stay-at-home gear to workwear. Whether yours becomes an underlay to your favorite jacket or an interesting statement top you tie up at both ends (see: Cult Gaia) is your own prerogative.
Tanya Taylor Morgana Knit ($495)
Khaite The Fiona Cardigan in Zig Zag ($2,400)
The most intricately crafted, handwoven sweater you can buy this fall is an intarsia piece that's been skillfully woven with multiple thread colors to form a picture, fair isle pattern, or motif. The ones we've gathered here will make them all look twice.
Tach Clothing Tampa Sweater ($294)