When the seasons are in the midst of change, the weather can be indecisive and difficult to dress for. It’s not quite hot, but not quite freezing either, so having a perfect midweight sweater in your arsenal of everyday clothing is an essential item to shop for.
If you’re in need of such a garment, seek some inspiration in the upcoming list featuring some of the internet’s highest-rated cardigans, sweaters and pullovers, in a variety of fabrics and price points. Rest assured that each of the options are easy to grab and throw on, or layer over an existing outfit, proving to be ideal for transitional weather.
An essential cotton blend V-neck sweater
Score: 4.4 out of 5 stars; 24,217 ratings at Amazon
This classic-fitting V-neck sweater promises to be lightweight, comfortable and never bulky so it's perfect for a nearly fall climate. It's made from a cotton-modal blend, comes in 31 colors and sizes XS-6X.
Promising review: "This turned out to be one of my favorite light weight sweaters. It’s prefect for cool fall evenings or worn layered with something else in the winter. I wear mine often times with a down vest during winter months. I have this same sweater in black also. I love that it’s a v-neck sweater. It’s not overly fitted which is my personal preference, not bulky either. It’s comfy and flattering and comes in a variety of colors so chances are I’ll get another one….or two. Washes very well, no noticeable shrinkage, and holds it shape." — Debra Kirby
A J.Crew-lookalike cardigan that our editor swears by
Score: 4.4 out of 5 stars; 14,384 ratings at Amazon
Shopping managing editor Emily Ruane is a big fan of this delicate-yet-functional Amazon cardigan that she said is a dead ringer for one popular J.Crew cardigan that's nearly double the cost (and completely sold out). Made from a lightweight cotton blend and available in over 25 colors, this classic button-up is sure to be your next favorite basic. Find it in sizes XS-6X.
A long layering cardigan
Score: 4.4 out of 5 stars; 23,815 ratings at Amazon
Another Amazon essential basic is this open-front cardigan that's perfect for layering and a mid-thigh length. It's made from a cotton-modal blend, comes in 20 colors and sizes XS-6X. Reviewers note that this is especially ideal for traveling.
Promising review: "I wanted something I can cram into my personal item for the plane. You know how after 30 minutes being herded like cattle, it's 95 F in the jetway? You sit on the tarmac for the obligatory 45 minutes and the flight attendants are about to pass out in their polyester uniforms, so as soon as your flight is clear to take off the air handler comes on and suddenly you could store popsicles in economy class? This is the garment you want on hand... It's well sewn and drapes gracefully should you wish to conceal something like a passport wallet on a string or a well-trained chihuahua. It comes down a bit past your hips and gives the vague impression of a blazer. I think the weave is dense enough to pin a brooch or an ID tag onto without destroying it... I'm off to buy another one while they're on sale. If you're a traveler who gets cold, or just want something a bit more stylish than a sweatshirt to keep you warm, get one of these." — Aunt Mary [Note: This review has been edited for length. Read the full review here.]
An oversized crewneck pullover
Score: 4.5 out of 5 stars; 8,287 reviews at Amazon
Available in 18 colors and sizes S-XL, this waffle-knit pullover has a curved hemline and an oversized fit that's perfect for wearing on its own or layering over an outfit if the day suddenly turns brisk.
Be sure to apply the 30% off coupon on the product page before checkout.
Promising review: "Bought 3 of these (bought 1 and liked it and kept buying ) 3 + years ago and no holes, no fading, no piling. I wear them a lot and they are the most quality pieces of clothing in current wardrobe. Thick fabric, not as long as they appear in photos." — CoffeeFreakz
A Mongolian cashmere crewneck
Score: 4.9 out of 5 stars; 14,011 reviews at Quince
Quince is known for supplying the internet with luxurious cashmere garments at accessible price points, and this crewneck is a perfect example. One of the best and highest-rated sweaters from the brand, this timeless pullover is made from a silky soft and lightweight Mongolian cashmere, yet costs just $50. It's available in 13 colors, sizes XS-XL and also comes in an equally high-rated oversized version for $100.
An oversized tunic
Score: 4.6 out of 5 stars; 551 reviews at Free People
This chunky knit tunic sweater is intentionally oversized with roomy dolman sleeves and a relaxed hip-skimming hemline. Find it in sizes XS-XL and up to 10 colors including a deep teal, a neutral cream and black. Per the reviewers, this oversized design fits extra big so definitely eye the size chart and the review photos to get a sense of what might be the best fit for you. The upside? Sizing was nearly the only complaint we found about this stunning sweater.
Promising review: "Hands down my new go to sweater. It is oversized and comfortable, it has a good shape and washes well." — Sara Wood
A cashmere boyfriend cardigan
Score: 4.8 out of 5 stars; 2,595 reviews at Quince
Referred to by Quince as the "boyfriend cardigan," this relaxed-fit button-up is knit from the brand's signature and supremely soft Mongolian cashmere and features a fisherman rib detailing. You can find it in eight colors and sizes XS-XL.
Promising review: "I’ve had this cardigan for a few months now and it is one of the coziest cardigans I own. It is def an investment and I was second guessing keeping it but I’ve worn my money’s worth at this point. I wear it both at work and lounging around the house pretty regularly. This cardigan is oversized already so I could have sized down but ended up just keeping my normal size. It’s a nice capsule piece and it does pill over time so have a fabric shaver handy." — Kat