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When it comes time to transition your wardrobe from summer to fall, several key pieces are critical: an excellent pair of jeans, dependable joggers, leather boots, a light jacket, a tote bag, and ultra-cozy cashmere knitwear. And although you’ll need to fill up on loads of pull-over sweaters, don’t sleep on the underrated cute sweater dress. Cozy, polished, and effortless for styling, sweater dresses are a flexible staple for any fall or winter wardrobe.
The sweater dress has come a good distance — from the slouchy, oversized types of the ‘80s to the sleek, minimal silhouettes of the ‘90s. But today’s sweater dresses for ladies meet somewhere in the center, with a variety of hemlines and silhouettes to pick from that work for any occasion. There are sophisticated cashmere sweater dresses perfect for the office, oversized minis for styling with knee-high boots, and even sexy cut-out sweater dresses for an evening out. In recent fall runways, designers have proven that sweater dresses extend well beyond a classic chunky knit turtleneck style, with brands like Dion Lee and Proenza Schouler offering more sleek, sophisticated iterations of midi-length sweater dresses.
Whether you’re searching for something more cozy and casual or more elevated and refined, there are many cute sweater dresses to pick from this season. Keeping scrolling to see the most effective sweater dresses you’ll be able to buy today, together with our guide to the different sorts of knit dress styles and outfit suggestions from an authority.
Top Sweater Dresses of 2022
Jonathan Simkhai Skai Knit Combo Poplin Mini Shirtdress
Best Shirtdress Sweater Dress
- Size range: XS-L
- Materials: Cotton, wool, recycled polyester
- Features: Two-in-one layered dress
Wardrobe stylist Liv Schreiber says this season is all concerning the Gossip Girl-inspired sweater dress, and she or he recommends this Jonathan Simkhai piece for getting the look. The 2-in-one layered dress contains a knit and shirt dress combo that provides that preppy schoolgirl look without being too on the nose. Schreiber recommends pairing it with thigh-high boots or chunky loafers to transition into your fall wardrobe. As a bonus, this above-the-knee length dress may be worn as a dress or layered over trousers as an elongated top and sweater combo for more styling options.
The Drop Renata Rib Midi Dress
Best Sweater Dress on Amazon
- Size range: XS-5X
- Materials: Acrylic, Polyester, Nylon, Viscose, Wool
- Colorways: White, black, and mocha
What Reviewers Say: “Overall pleasantly pleased with the standard of the dress and the length. Sleeve length was outstanding (A+++) Good sweater feel but not too thick, a slight stretch but didn’t feel low-cost. Could easily be dressed up or down. I added a belt and scarf for my preferred look. I’d say the dress is well worth the price.”
When you’re searching for a timeless sweater dress, go for this ribbed iteration from Amazon’s The Drop. The midi length contains a double slide slit so the dress won’t cling to your body awkwardly. Reviewers love adding a belt to this one to assist define and accentuate the waist. The easy crew neckline and straight style make it easy to decorate up or dress down, whether you wish to wear it to the office or on an off-the-cuff weekend outing.
Skims Soft Lounge Maxi Dress
Top Stylist-Advisable Sweater Dress
- Size range: XXS-4X
- Materials: Modal, Spandex
- Colorways: White, black, gray, brown, and hot pink
What reviewers say: “I’m in love. The dress is so comfortable it hugs you to right places. Considered one of my favorite pieces in my closet.”
Stylist Liv Schreiber knows this is probably not an actual sweater dress, but she says it’s still the knitwear dress of the moment and recommends it for a lighter-weight sweater dress alternative. “It has the very best TikTok reviews of all time on account of the standard of the material and the way in which that it hugs every woman’s curves in all the proper places,” Schreiber says. Though it’s not a typical sweater material, reviewers are obsessive about the maxi style for its flattering fit, comfortable feel, and overall flexibility that could make it deemed a maternity sweater dress.
Reformation Rena Cashmere Set
- Size range: XS-XL
- Materials: Recycled cashmere, Virgin cashmere
- Colorways: Cocoa, Red
This two-piece cashmere set from Reformation completely elevates the usual sweater dress. Equal parts sleek and sexy, the midi-length sleeveless sweater dress comes with an identical cardigan to layer over top for a ‘90s-inspired look. The soft and sleek cashmere means you’ll have zero bulkiness, and the lover neckline adds a touch of romance to the complete look. Pair it with knee-high boots for a special event or date night.
& Other Stories Ribbed Knit Midi Dress
- Size range: XS-L
- Materials: Rayon, Polyamide
Cute sweater dresses don’t all the time need to be in neutral colours — and this brilliant green ribbed one by & Other Stories proves that sometimes bolder is best. The pop of color contains a barely flared silhouette and slit for higher movement and shape. And the mock-neck style gives that turtleneck look with just a little more breathability. Add a pair of white or black boots, and also you don’t need much else — this dress does all of the give you the results you want.
Farm Rio Tropical Garden Long-Sleeve Sweater Dress
- Size range: XS-XL
- Materials: Acrylic, Polyamide, Wool
An ‘80s-inspired sweater dress that brings on all the colour and print? Sign us up. Farm Rio’s statement maker is a colourful, fun, unexpected addition to your fall wardrobe. The balloon-style sleeves are comfortable and breathable while giving the remainder of the dress a more elevated look. This Brazilian-based brand is understood for its nature-inspired styles which can be brilliant in color and pattern, and this fall-ready style is ideal for keeping the spirit of summer alive through those chilly months.
Anine Bing Joslyn Dress
- Size range: XS-L
- Materials: Rayon, Nylon, Elastane
When you’re right into a minimal wardrobe, you’re likely aware of Anine Bing’s classic staples. The brand’s Joslyn Dress doubles as a cardigan and a sweater dress and may be styled in many various ways. With classic black ribbing done in a heavyweight knit, this style provides warmth and chunkiness without feeling frumpy. Wear it unbuttoned over a bodysuit and jeans or fully closed as a dress with chunky loafers.
Max Mara Knit Midi Dress
- Size range: XS-XL
- Materials: Virgin Wool
- Colorways: Camel, white, and black
A classic black turtleneck sweater dress is crucial in any fall wardrobe. Known for his or her incredibly cozy and luxe wardrobe staples, Max Mara delivers a sublime tackle knitwear — especially relating to sweater dresses. This sleek and easy style by the brand is fabricated from 100% wool to maintain you warm on even the chilliest winter days. The ribbed collar, cuffs, and hemline provide just a little extra coziness and detailing. Layer this over a pair of black tights and top it off together with your go-to boots of the season for an effortlessly versatile fall outfit.
LNA Midi Sweater Dress
Best V-Neck Sweater Dress
- Size range: XS-XL
- Materials: Rayon, Spandex
Collared sweaters and cardigans were in all places last fall, however the trend isn’t slowing down this season. This collared sweater dress by LNA provides only a touch of preppiness and a touch of sexiness because of the figure-fitting design. The thigh-high slits provide just a little extra movement and shape while also making it easier to style with a variety of footwear — from loafers and sneakers to knee-high boots. One of the best part? It’s extremely lightweight, so there’s no probability of it looking or feeling bulky.
Anrabess Turtleneck Sweater Dress
Best Sweater Dress for a Belt
- Size range: XS-XL
- Materials: Viscose, Nylon, PBT
- Colorways: Available in 20 colours
What reviewers say: “This sweater exceeded my expectations. The color is true, the sizing is true (allowing for it’s an over-sized jumper). It’s comfortable, soft & easy to wear with loads of stretch in it. I haven’t washed it yet & will update if anything goes flawed with the wash, but on the entire, I’d highly recommend it. Arrived quickly & well packaged. Will likely be purchasing one other in a distinct color.”
Sometimes Amazon really pulls through with the super easy wardrobe pieces that win us throughout (think: the famous Amazon Coat), and this oversized sweater dress isn’t any exception. Although the silhouette is easy, it’s a favourite amongst Amazon shoppers, with over 6,500 positive reviews. The mini length and ribbed fabric make it easy to throw on over a pair of tights and boots for a laidback fall look. When you prefer a more put-together look, you’ll be able to add a belt across the waist to create more shape. Oh, and did we mention it’s available in 20 colours? So that you’ll definitely find something to suit perfectly in together with your seasonal wardrobe.
Missoni Striped Sweater Dress
Best Fitted Sweater Dress
- Size range: 0-12
- Materials: Wool, Viscose
Say hello to this Missoni striped number when you to splurge on a designer option. The maxi style contains a printed stripe that includes all of fall’s best colours into one. With a crew neckline and straight silhouette, this one is straightforward to decorate up with heeled boots for work or keep casual with a pair of white sneakers in your days off. The material is fabricated from a wool-viscose mix, so you’ll be able to be certain you’ll be super warm all season long.
Sir Enes Open Back Dress
Best Cut-Out Sweater Dress
- Size range: 0-3 (US 2-8)
- Materials: Cotton
An open-back sweater dress for fall offers an unexpected twist on classic seasonal wear. This style by Sir features an open back with cross-back straps and a removable waist tie that may wrap around your waist for a flattering fit. The ribbed fabric has a rather flared silhouette for a looser fit that also hugs the body. Style it with white boots for a monochromatic winter white look, or black for a crisp contrast. Either way, this chic number is guaranteed to show heads in one of the simplest ways possible.
Free People On a Cloud Midi Dress
Best Cable Knit Sweater Dress
- Size range: XS-XL
- Materials: Nylon, Cotton
- Colorways: Brown, white
What reviewers say: “Received this sweater dress (brownstone) and it’s beautiful for the proper person(just not me). Im 5’2 and with heeled boots, it was still grazing the highest. It’s shapeless however the the material is great quality. The xs on me resembled a cocoon.”
Oversized, cozy, and classic, the cable-knit midi dress from Free People is like a large hug on a fall day. The brand’s ‘On a Cloud’ range is designed to make you’re feeling such as you’re…well, on a cloud, and this cute sweater dress does just that. Available in brown and white, style this sleeveless knit style over a button-down shirt or long-sleeve shirt for the proper layered autumn look.
Eloquii Turtleneck Mini Sweater Dress
- Size range: 14-28
- Materials: Polyester, Recycled fiber, Acrylic, Nylon
This two-tone white and black sweater dress by Eloquii proves the facility of this timeless color combo. The mini length is good for pairing together with your favorite boots — ankle length or knee-high — for a glance that may take you from casual weekend plans to a vacation dinner. And when you’re someone who loves the comfiness of a chunky turtleneck, this is bound to turn into a favourite.
Manning Cartell Halterneck Knitted Dress
Best Cocktail Attire Sweater Dress
- Size range: XS-L
- Materials: Recycled Viscose, Nylon
Enter: a turtleneck sweater dress such as you’ve never seen before. Manning Cartell’s halter-style turtleneck dress features cut-out shoulders and a deep V-neckline for a touch of sexiness. The slim-cut ribbed knit is lightweight and sleek for any special events or night outs. With a side slit and midi length, you’ll be able to style this one with stilettos or boots, depending on the occasion. Wherever you’re going, just know you’re guaranteed to make a splash.
Stella McCartney Asymmetric Sweater Dress
- Size range: 0-14
- Materials: Cotton
When you’re searching for the proper sweater dress to wear to the office, look no further than this style by Stella McCartney. The sleeveless ribbed design is ideal for layering underneath a blazer for a classy tackle cozy. With an asymmetric hemline, this one can be ideal for showing off your fall footwear — flats, heels, or boots. Plus, it’s fabricated from 100% cotton so that you’re less prone to get hot underneath all those layers.
Staud Long-Sleeve Midi Sweater Dress
Best Sweater Dress for a Holiday Party
- Size range: XS-L
- Materials: Viscose, Nylon
While this sweater dress is great for ringing in the vacation season you’ll make sure you get use out of it for other special moments. The merlot color is the proper fall/winter hue to enliven your wardrobe, and one which can easily be styled together with your existing shoe collection — whether you wish to go black, white, or metallic. The cinched knit waistband accentuates the midriff for a more flattering fit that doesn’t require adding a belt. And with voluminous balloon sleeves, this style gives a much-needed refresh to your overworn winter dress collection.
Dion Lee Convertible Long Sleeve Sweater Dress
Best Open-Back Sweater Dress
- Size range: S-XL
- Materials: Wool, Nylon, Elastane
Who says sweater dresses can’t be sexy? Dion Lee is understood for its minimal and sleek aesthetic, and this cutout sweater dress proves just that. The halter-style and crisscrossed back straps offer a sultry tackle the style and is ideal for an evening out. It also contains a removable bolero sweater that may convert the search for moments when you wish to exhibit your toned arms.
The Different Sorts of Sweater Dresses
- Mini Sweater Dress: A mini sweater dress hits just above the knee and is ideal for pairing with knee-high or over-the-knee boots for a more casual, trendy look. When you’re searching for a chunky knit sweater dress that’s ultra cozy and laidback, this design is often easier to style with tights and combat boots for an easy outfit that works for weekend outings.
- Maxi Sweater Dress: A maxi sweater is your ticket to head-to-toe coziness. Extending right down to the ankle, this cut is often designed with a thinner knit fabric to avoid any bulkiness when styling. Typically this style is best for the office, a dinner look, or an important day because the long length leans elegant and complicated.
- Midi Sweater Dress: A midi sweater dress offers the most effective of each worlds. You will discover a variety of styles on this length — from chunky knits which can be more casual to cashmere that’s more streamlined. When you’re searching for the most effective sweater dress that gives warmth without bulkiness, a midi sweater dress is a flexible option since it may possibly be paired with any height boots or designer sneakers.
Sweater Dress Outfit Ideas: How one can Style a Sweater Dress
- Preppy School Girl Style: “The return of the It girl, Gossip Girl, and the private school girl is back in style,” fashion stylist and influencer Liv Schreiber says. “Expect to see tons of platform loafers just like the Prada Monolith paired with tall socks and sweater dresses layered with collared shirts.” So, style your short sweater dress over a button-down shirt and accessorize it with chunky platform loafers or combat boots to finish the look.
- Back to the Office: For work-friendly attire, go for a midi or maxi-length sweater dress in a skinny knit or cashmere that appears more elevated and fewer casual. A turtleneck style is great for wearing by itself or layering underneath a blazer. Add a pair of knee-high boots underneath, and also you’ve got an easy outfit that requires little effort.
- Casual Weekend Wear: Go for a chunky knit in a mini length for a quintessential fall sweater dress look. As for the most effective shoes to wear together with your sweater dress, we recommend knee-high boots. Experiment with an oversized turtleneck sweater dress, tights, and high-top sneakers for a more laid-back feel.
- With a Belt: Adding a belt is the most effective solution to your sweater dress shape because it’s going to accentuate and define your waist. Whether you favor a large or a skinny belt, the accessory ought to be worn on the smallest a part of your midsection. You’ll be able to top it off with a blazer or trench coat so as to add more polish.
Meet the Creator
Lauren Alexis Fisher is a contract fashion editor, author, and consultant based in Latest York. She was previously the digital market editor at Harper’s BAZAAR, where she reported on fashion trends and news and oversaw the positioning’s e-commerce and search engine marketing strategies. She’s written for publications including Harper’s Bazaar, Cosmopolitan, W Magazine, WWD, Bustle, and more.
Meet the Expert
Liv Schreiber is a Latest York-based fashion stylist and lifestyle influencer most known for her TikTok videos. She has personally styled and shopped for multiple celebrities in addition to high-profile entrepreneurs, designed handbags sold at Free People, and worked with firms like Teen Vogue, Jil Sander, Revolve, Moroccanoil, Amanda Uprichard, Casely, and more throughout her years within the industry.
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