Even the coldest of winters can be infinitely improved by a good piece of knitwear. During the cooler months, it can be easy to get lost in a deluge of layers trying to stay warm. However, the best sweaters for women are hardworking staples that keep you warm and cosy without adding too much heft or bulk. Worn on their own or topped with a trench coat, puffer jacket, or overcoat (depending on what the day may bring), the best sweaters are practical and chic in equal measure.
While knitwear has gotten a contemporary makeover, with everything from bra tops and cropped arm warmers executed in yarn, it’s worth noting that when actually dressing for winter, it pays to keep it classic. That means steering clear of sweaters with backless details and dramatic cut-outs, as well as overly cropped styles. However, eschewing these somewhat derivative hallmarks of sexiness needn’t mean one is relegated to dowdy styles, with the best sweaters for women crafted from luxurious materials and boasting flattering cuts.
Our buyer’s guide to the best sweaters for women details what you should look for when shopping for knitwear and the pieces we recommend.
Overview of the best sweaters for women
- Best lambswool sweater under $50AUD: Uniqlo 100% Premium Lambswool Long Sleeve Crew Neck Sweater
- Best cashmere sweater under $150AUD: Uniqlo 100% Cashmere Crew Neck Sweater
- Best ethical wool sweater: Asket The Mock Neck Sweater
- Best luxury cashmere sweater: Lisa Yang The Lou Sweater
How to buy quality knitwear
It can be fun to add a new sweater to your collection come winter, but it should be out of choice rather than necessity i.e. because you feel like it, not because last year’s sweater has come apart. A truly good quality sweater should last well beyond the season — when taken care of, quality knitwear should be a hardworking wardrobe staple for several years, even decades.
Related: The Humble Beanie Is This Winter’s Coolest Accessory, Here’s How To Wear It
Although there’s often a correlation between quality and price, when it comes to knitwear, higher price points don’t always equate to higher quality. Instead, looking at both the material composition and the fibres themselves will give you a better idea of whether the sweater you’re after will keep you warm and last for years.
Sweaters for women: materials to consider
The most common materials used in sweaters for women are wool, cashmere, merino wool, and cotton. Here’s what to know about each.
- Cashmere: often seen as the pinnacle of luxury, cashmere is the softest sweater material but also the most delicate. Once only available at higher price points, the democratisation of cashmere now means it’s now available at budget friendly prices (Naadam is famous for its sub-$100USD cashmere sweaters, with Uniqlo also offering the material at a similar price point). That said, cashmere is a notoriously finicky material, with even sweaters at higher price points prone to pilling and wearing out. If you regularly engage in rugged activities, cashmere is likely not the material for you. However, if you’re after the most luxuriously feeling texture, cashmere certainly fits the bill.
- Alpaca: a less common material, alpaca is a solid alternative to cashmere. It’s similarly soft but is more durable and its longer fibres mean it’s less likely to pill.
- Wool: also known as sheep’s wool, wool is the most common sweater material (technically, alpaca and cashmere are also types of wool, however the term on its own typically refers to sheep’s wool). Wool is an ideal material for sweaters thanks to its superior warmth and durability, as well as its water-resistant (note: not waterproof!) properties. Additionally, wool fibres have a natural crimp (or ’wave’) to them which traps air and provides increased insulation (for added warmth) and produces sweaters that hold their shape better.
- Lambswool: lambswool is obtained from lambs the very first time they are sheared (around six months old) and is softer and finer than sheep’s wool. It’s breathable and has temperature regulating properties, while providing excellent insulation. It’s more delicate than sheep’s wool but not as delicate as cashmere.
- Merino wool: merino wool is known for its temperature regulating and breathable properties. It’s a viable material for thinner sweaters worn closer to the body, as well as base layers and activewear. That said, it’s not a particularly luxurious feeling material for sweaters.
- Cotton: for days when it’s not too cold but cool enough to warrant an additional layer, cotton can be a viable option. Cotton moulds to fit your shape, making it a good choice for more fitted styles. That said, it has a tendency to stretch over time.
- Synthetics: many sweater purists write synthetics—such as acrylic and polyester—off altogether. However, synthetic fibres can add durability to otherwise delicate fabrics, while also making them easy to care for. Additionally, many synthetic materials boast resistance to moisture and mould. It’s typically best to stay under 20% when it comes to synthetic materials, however there are a few exceptions to the rule.
Sweaters for women: other factors to consider
While online shopping can make it difficult to thoroughly vet a sweater for quality, here are some things to look out for.
Yarn size
The material itself (i.e. cashmere, wool) influences how the sweater will feel, but fibre or yarn size is often the biggest indicator of how long it will last. Look for sweaters with thicker individual yarns (as well as neat, well defined weaving) as these will last longer than those with thinner yarns. If shopping online, look for closeups of the fabric which should allow you to gauge the yarn size.
Ply size
Ply refers to the number of individual threads in a single piece of yarn. Most cashmere sweaters are 2-ply, however thicker (and thereby cosier) sweaters are often 4-ply. Brands don’t always state their ply number in the description, however those with higher ply numbers will often want to tell you about it — which is a good sign!
Gauge
The gauge of a sweater can be a good tool to work out how light or heavy it is. Gauge refers to the number of stitches per inch on a piece of knitwear; essentially, the larger the yarn, the bigger the stitches it will make, hence you’ll need less of them than with a thinner yarn. With this in mind, a smaller gauge number indicates a heavier knit, and vice versa. However, a smaller gauge number can also indicate a looser, more mesh like look, particularly when it comes to cashmere. While gauge alone doesn’t say much, it can be helpful to look for when shopping for sweaters online.
Weave tightness
Tightly knit sweaters tend to hold up better than their loosely knit counterparts. When shopping in person, gently ‘stretch’ the sweater with your hands; if the weave is tight enough (and the fibres thick enough), you shouldn’t be able to see your skin through the sweater.
The best sweaters for women to keep you warm this winter
Now that you know how to shop for a good sweater, these are our favourite styles for women. Running the gamut from affordable to luxury and in a range of materials, these are our approved picks of the best women’s sweaters. In line with the considerations above, we’ve prioritised tighter weaves, thicker yarns, and heavier knits when it comes to classic wool sweaters. That said, there are also some more delicate lightweight cashmere iterations included (although a tight weave is still an essential here).
It’s worth noting here that in this buyer’s guide to women’s sweaters, we’re sticking to sweaters in their purest form i.e. pullovers. That means no cardigans, full-zips or sweater vests, however polo necks (sweaters with a collar and sometimes buttons) and quarter- and half-zips are acceptable. We’re also including several types of necklines, including turtlenecks, crew necks, and v-necks.
Regardless of your taste, these sweaters for women represent solid investment pieces that, if cared for correctly, will last for years to come.
1. Asket The Mock Neck Sweater
We’ve sung the praises of ethical Swedish brand Asket before. Part of the brand’s permanent collection, the Asket The Mock Neck Sweater is a timeless investment piece. Slouchy without being oversized, it’s available in four neutral hues and features dropped shoulders and finely ribbed cuffs, hem, and neckline for a relaxed yet elegant aesthetic. Knit from 3-ply wool, it’s a chunky style that holds its shape well even after heavy wear and keeps you warm during the coldest of winter days. As it’s pure sheep’s wool, it’s not super soft in the way cashmere is — however as this is a chunkier style designed as a top layer, you’d pretty much always wear a top underneath making this a moot point. Plus, the wool used is recycled pre-consumer wool recovered from production waste and is dyed using a chemical-free process, meaning it’s a sweater you can truly feel good about wearing.
Price: $200AUD
Material: 100% wool
2. Extreme Cashmere n°167 Please
A brand dedicated to the soft, delicate material that is cashmere, Extreme Cashmere boasts some of the softest knits on the market. The brand doesn’t offer conventional sizing, instead selling a single size option with a general guide to the sizes it encompasses (confusing, we know; we’d recommend checking the exact garment measurements). The Extreme Cashmere n°167 Please is a slim-fit, slightly cropped crew neck style that’s designed to fit sizes xs to m, and is knit from 100% Mongolian cashmere. It’s more heavyweight and slightly less delicate than your typical cashmere sweater, but retains the material’s signature softness. Best of all, it’s machine washable — a rarity in the world of cashmere.
Price: $1393AUD ($916USD)
Material: 100% cashmere
3. From Future Contrast Hoodie Sweater
When it comes to the world of knitwear, there has been little variation on the cuts and styles of the humble pullover. Which is why we like the unique offering at From Future. The Parisian brand makes some of the most fun knitwear we’ve seen, while prioritising natural materials (think merino wool, cashmere, cotton, and silk). The From Future Contrast Hoodie Sweater is one such example; eschewing a classic cut, it sees a contemporary hoodie silhouette rendered in pure cashmere wool, with contrast ribbed sleeves and hood detailing. It’s crafted from 2-ply cashmere and is both soft and comfortable. Being cashmere, it errs on the thinner side and can be worn alone as a top in transitional weather or layered under an overcoat or jacket during the colder months.
Price: approx. $226AUD (€136.50)
Material: 100% cashmere
Related: The Best Overcoats Can Be Thrown Over Literally Anything
4. Uniqlo 100% Premium Lambswool Long Sleeve Crew Neck Sweater
Uniqlo knitwear offers some of the best value for money; if taken care of properly, the Japanese retailer’s sweaters can last several years. While Uniqlo releases several types of knitwear each year—including its synthetic-blend souffle yarn and pure cashmere—we find its 100% lambswool sweaters to be the best value in terms of both comfort and longevity. The Uniqlo 100% Premium Lambswool Long Sleeve Crew Neck Sweater is a classic style that works well worn over collared shirts and mock neck or turtleneck tops. While it’s a unisex style, we’ve found that Uniqlo’s menswear isn’t overly baggy, so it’s possible to take your regular size for a slouchy fit or size down by one size for a slimmer fit.
Price: $49.90AUD
Material: 100% lambswool
5. Lisa Yang The Lou Sweater
Stockholm-based brand Lisa Yang is another brand exclusively dedicated to cashmere, with the material appearing on everything from traditional sweaters and tops to coats, dresses, and skirts. Naturally, the brand knows how to do a good sweater. The Lisa Yang The Heidi Sweater is a satisfyingly heavyweight style tightly knit from chunky 5 gauge yarn. Designed with a relaxed fit, the crew neck style features dropped shoulders and ribbed trims. Its tightly woven nature means that despite the delicateness of cashmere, the Lisa Yang The Lou Sweater will serve you well for years to come.
Price: approx. $980AUD (€590)
Material: 100% cashmere
6. Jac + Jack Brill Wool Cashmere Sweater
Sometimes adding a touch of cashmere to merino wool can aid in getting the best of both worlds, with the combination pairing the softness of the former with the warmth and breathability of the latter. Such is the case with the Jac + Jack Brill Wool Cashmere Sweater. Crafted from 90% merino wool and 10% cashmere, it’s a mid-weight style which is soft to the touch for comfort and wearability. The drop sleeves and mock neck design means it’s easy to style, adding laidback elegance to even the simplest ensembles.
Price: $350AUD
Material: 90% merino wool, 10% cashmere
7. Dale of Norway Peace Sweater
Dale of Norway has been crafting knitwear since 1879, and suffice to say the Norwegian brand has got the craft down pat. Having made the official sweaters for the Norwegian Ski Team for every Winter Olympics and World Ski Championships since 1956, Dale of Norway blends unique aesthetics with warmth and high-performance. The Dale of Norway Peace Sweater was originally designed for the 2006 Turin Winter Olympics; made from 100% wool, it features a pewter heart zip puller and an all-over eight-petal rose pattern. The mandarin-style collar and slim-fit design differentiate it from traditional oversized chunky sweaters, making it a definitive statement piece. Naturally, the brand boasts an extensive array of striking (and colourful!) patterned sweater styles, each exuding Scandi charm — a brand well worth checking out for a knit that stands out from the crowd.
Price: approx. $580AUD (€349)
Material: 100% wool
8. McIntyre Merino Polly Waffle Stitch
Combining a commitment to natural materials with a contemporary design approach, Australian brand McIntyre Merino crafts fashion-forward silhouettes in vibrant shades from pure merino wool. The McIntyre Merino Polly Waffle Stitch is one of the brand’s staple styles, with the cropped sweater featuring an intricate waffle stitch on the chest panel and an oversized waistband hem that sits on the waistline. A common gripe with sweaters—and winter wear in general—is that they can drown out your proportions. A cropped, fitted style avoids this fate and works well styled with high-waisted trousers or jeans.
Price: $329.95AUD
Material: 100% merino wool
9. Sandro Layered Effect Jumper
Cropped sweaters are a somewhat divisive garment, with some deeming them the antithesis of everything a sweater should be and others loving their ability to keep you warm without adding excess bulk. Here at Albert Review, we’re in the latter camp and are partial to a slim-fitting cropped variety. The Sandro Layered Effect Jumper is an atypical cropped sweater; a veritable two-in-one deal, it features shirt-effect details on the collar and bottom panel as well as utilitarian pocket overlays on the top. The cropped sweater itself is crafted from 93% wool and 7% cashmere, while the overlaid pockets and removable collar are made of cotton.
Price: $470AUD
Material: 93% wool, 7% cashmere (with cotton details)
10. Ralph Lauren Cable-Knit Wool-Cashmere Jumper
Those desirous of a little old world prep needn’t look further than Ralph Lauren. The American luxury fashion house is renowned for its classic cable knit sweaters, with the Ralph Lauren Cable-Knit Wool-Cashmere Jumper boasting the namesake vertical cable knit details (not to mention the iconic pony logo embroidered on the chest). Designed to be worn close to the body, looks best styled on its own or over a slim-cut collared shirt. Crafted from 80% wool and 20% cashmere, it’s luxuriously soft without being too fussy.
Price: $349AUD
Material: 80% wool, 20% cashmere
Related: A Trench Coat Is The Timeless Style Staple To Buy Now & Keep Forever
11. Nadaam The Original Cashmere Sweater
Since its launch in 2015, American clothing label Nadaam became famous for its $75USD cashmere sweaters. The brand has since hiked up the price to $98USD, however it remains a solid option for a pure cashmere sweater. The Nadaam The Original Cashmere Sweater is a fuss-free option for those looking for the softness of cashmere without the high three- to four-figure price point often associated with the material. The style is both simple and chic; the classic silhouette features a classic crew neck and ribbed details on the neckline, cuffs, and hem. A relatively lightweight sweater, it’s only marginally thicker than a standard mid-weight t-shirt and has a slim-fit cut — with this in mind, we’d recommend wearing it as a mid-layer. While roomy enough to wear over a fitted skivvy or t-shirt, those wanting a boxier fit should size up.
Naadam claims the cashmere fibres it uses are longer than average, meaning its sweaters are less likely to pill. We’ve not been able to verify this information, so take it with a grain of salt, but the brand is certainly worth looking into.
Price: $156AUD
Material: 100% cashmere
12. Uniqlo 100% Cashmere Crew Neck Sweater
With Naadam’s recent price hikes, Uniqlo once again claims the throne of the most affordable cashmere sweater. Clocking in at $129.90AUD, the Uniqlo 100% Cashmere Crew Neck Sweater has all the hallmarks of a standard classic sweater; think a crew neck and ribbed detailing on the neck, cuffs, and hem. Its classic cut leaves just enough room to wear a collared shirt underneath, with the style conservative enough for office wear.
Price: $129.90AUD
Material: 100% cashmere
13. Best Jumpers Wombat Sweater
While Best Jumpers is named after its founder Dylan Best, the Australian brand lives up to its moniker with relaxed, minimalist styles that feature quirky takes on Australiana. Take the Best Jumpers Wombat Sweater, for example. Crafted from 100% merino wool, the cosy, slightly oversized style features a wombat logo (alongside the word, lest anyone be confused about the depiction of the marsupials) emblazoned across the front.
Price: $183AUD
Material: 100% merino wool
14. Nagnata Hinterland Zip Thru Sweater
Activewear and knitwear might not seem like natural bedfellows, but Australian brand Nagnata is showing that the two can in fact have a symbiotic relationship. The Nagnata Hinterland Zip Thru Sweater is an oversized, half-zip style with a multi-toned patchwork design. Crafted from pure merino wool, its high funnel neckline and heavyweight rib knit are designed with warmth and comfort in mind. Given Nagnata’s activewear prowess, the Hinterland Zip Thru Sweater is well suited to cold winter morning walks and hikes (team it with the brand’s wool leggings), however looks equally as good styled over bootleg jeans or a mini skirt and stockings during the day.
Price: $530AUD
Material: 100% merino wool
How to wash and care for sweaters
Caring for your sweaters is key to ensuring their longevity. Sweaters made from natural materials needn’t be washed after every wear; once every month or so should suffice. While the care instructions for cashmere and wool sweaters typically tout dry cleaning as the way forward, we’ve found that hand-washing our sweaters with cold water and a gentle detergent is both effective and economical. Depending on your washing machine, it may also be possible to machine wash your woollen sweaters on the cold, delicate cycle.
Proper drying is also an important consideration — never hang your sweaters to dry as this will stretch them out. Instead, fold them into a clean white towel to squeeze out excess water and dry them flat. In the same vein, don’t hang your sweaters when storing them; fold them and store in a cool, dry closet (or an airtight container in the off-season).
Words by Arabella Johnson
Cover image courtesy of Arthur Elgort
