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Cold weather is upon us, which means it’s time to break out the sweaters from the back of the closets once again (and queue up the infamous Bronx Beat SNL skit). Not to be confused with sweatshirts and hoodies, sweaters are a versatile staple for fall and winter that can be dressed up for a day at the office or down for weekend errands.

I’m partial to a heavyweight cotton knit (it’s often less itchy than other natural fibers), but wool, cashmere and alpaca are all stylish options that will keep you warm once the temperature drops. These types of natural materials are also more breathable and longer-lasting, provided you know your way around a fabric shaver. 

To gear up for winter, find some of our favourite sweater styles of the season below, starting at $28. 

Best women’s sweaters summary

Collared sweater:Everlane – The Polo in Ultrasoft Merino
Cable-knit:Artizia – Sunday Best Peggy Sweater
Cashmere sweater: Reformation Fantino Cashmere Collared Cardigan
V-neck sweater:Banana Republic – Oversized Cropped V-Neck Sweater
Crew neck sweater: Uniqlo – Merino Crew Neck Sweater
Sweater vest: Gap – Oversized Sweater Vest
Cardigan: Kotn – Women’s Leila Cardigan
Turtleneck:Tentree – Highline Wool Turtleneck Sweater
Plus size:Amazon Essentials – Women’s Lightweight Cardigan

Best sweaters explained

Collared sweater: Everlane – The Polo in Ultrasoft Merino

The Polo in Ultrasoft Merino
The Polo in Ultrasoft Merino.Photo by Everlane

Why we love it: Collared knits seem to be just about everywhere this fall, and for good reason: it’s versatile and cute. This version is made from 100 per cent ribbed merino wool for a form-fitting and lightweight fit.
Price: $168

Cable-knit:Artizia – Sunday Best Peggy Sweater

Sunday Best Peggy Sweater
Sunday Best Peggy Sweater.Photo by Aritzia

Why we love it: This sweater is about as close as I’ve come to finding an real-life version of Rory Gilmore’s cream cable-knit sweater. It’s oversized, incredibly soft and perfect for wearing on repeat.
Price: $128

Cashmere sweater: Reformation Fantino Cashmere Collared Cardigan

Fantino Cashmere Collared Cardigan
Fantino Cashmere Collared Cardigan.Photo by Reformation

Why we love it: Buttery soft cashmere will never go out of style. This classic sweater is made from 90 per cent recycled cashmere and has an oversized fit.
Price: $448

V-neck sweater: Banana Republic – Oversized Cropped Sweater

Oversized Cropped V-Neck Cotton Sweater
Oversized Cropped V-Neck Cotton Sweater.Photo by Banana Republic

Why we love it: This cropped sweater has unexpected details that make it feel fresh, like wide cuffs, dropped shoulders and a deep V-neckline. A thick cotton knit also lends a chunky feel to this oversized sweater.
Price: $150

Crew neck sweater: Uniqlo – Merino Crew Neck Sweater

Merino Crew Neck Sweater
Merino Crew Neck Sweater.Photo by Uniqlo

Why we love it: Uniqlo is known for its affordable, high quality basics like this merino wool sweater. Available in nine different colours, it’s machine washable for easy care and slightly cropped to pair with any bottoms.
Price: $50

Sweater vest:

Why we love it: Dressing for fall weather in Canada can be tricky, which is why transitional pieces like the sweater vest are great additions to your wardrobe. Perfect for those in-between days, this oversized version adds warmth without too much bulk.
Price: $65

Cardigan: Kotn – Women’s Leila Cardigan

Women's Leila Cardigan
Women’s Leila Cardigan.Photo by Kotn

Why we love it: A classic cardigan that’s made from 100 per cent cotton. The diamond check pattern keeps this sweater from feeling boring, but still timeless enough that you’ll be sure to get years of wear out of it.
Price: $138

Turtleneck: Tentree – Highline Wool Turtleneck Sweater

Highline Wool Turtleneck Sweater
Highline Wool Turtleneck Sweater.Photo by Tentree

Why we love it: When it comes time to bundle up, nothing beats a cozy turtleneck. Size down in this one for a more fitted look, or stick with your true size for a slightly oversized look.
Price: $108

Plus size:Amazon Essentials – Women’s Lightweight Cardigan

Amazon Essentials – Women's Lightweight Cardigan
Amazon Essentials Women’s Lightweight Cardigan.Photo by Amazon

Why we love it: This lightweight cardigan is an easy layering piece that looks way more expensive than its $28 price tag. It’s available in sizes XS to 5X, and in dozens of colours to mix and match.
Price: $28

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