10 Best Women's Crewneck Sweaters in 2022 (H&M, Universal Standard, and More)
A crewneck sweater is a closet staple. Not only is it classic, but it's incredibly versatile. You can wear it layered or alone, tucked or untucked, dressed up or down. Because a crewneck has such a timeless, flattering neckline, it makes a great base to explore different facets of your style. Keep it simple with an unembellished, fitted crewneck, or play around with colors, patterns, textures, and shapes.
Our buying guide will help you determine what type of crewneck sweater is best for you. And for inspiration, take a look at our top 10 list. We start things off with the Melissa High-Low Sweater from Universal Standard, a brand that's committed to inclusive sizing. The sweater has a relaxed fit and cozy material but takes things up a notch with an asymmetrical hemline. Keep reading to see the rest of our picks!
Quick List - Top Women's Crewneck Sweaters
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How to Choose Women's Crewneck Sweaters
When choosing a crewneck sweater, consider how much warmth you want it to provide and how you plan to wear it. The shape and fit of a sweater will determine its overall look and layerability.
Pick a Material for Your Climate
Crewneck sweaters come in nearly any material you can think of. Each one has different properties when it comes to warmth, breathability, and ease of care.
Natural Fibers are the Most Breathable
Wool and cotton are the two most common natural fibers used to make sweaters. Wool can range from thick Shetland to ultra-soft cashmere. It naturally traps heat and wicks moisture away, so it’s ideal for cold weather. It’s also durable and flexible, so it makes good outdoor wear.
Some wool can feel itchy. If this is an issue for you, look for merino, cashmere, or a wool blend. Wool requires a higher level of care than other materials but will last a long time.
Like wool, cotton is very breathable, but it’s much lighter. It doesn’t trap a lot of heat, so it’s best for warmer climates or seasons. Because it’s not very stretchy, it can be prone to losing its shape. If you prefer a sweater with more stretch, look for a cotton blend. On the plus side, cotton is typically very easy to care for.
Synthetic Fibers Make New Textures
Common synthetic sweater materials include acrylic, nylon, and polyester. These fibers can mimic the feel of natural fibers or create a new texture altogether. For example, super fuzzy textures like chenille or sherpa are often made from synthetic materials. Synthetics can be fairly warm but aren’t as breathable as natural materials.
Blends combine multiple fibers to create a material with the properties of both. Synthetic fibers can be added to natural fibers to change the look or make them stretchier, softer, or easier to care for.
Find the Right Length for Your Outfits
You can find crewneck sweaters in all lengths, from cropped cardigans to maxi dresses. Think about what bottoms you like to wear and pick a sweater length accordingly.
Short Crewnecks are Versatile
The most common sweater length hits right around the hip. This classic and versatile length can be worn tucked or untucked and paired with pants, jeans, or skirts. Since this length is basic and universal, you’re more likely to see this style in a variety of colors, patterns, and textures.
On the shorter side, cropped crewneck sweaters are trendier. They highlight your waist and can create an hourglass figure. Cropped sweaters work best when paired with high-waisted bottoms.
Long Crewnecks Provide Extra Warmth
If you prefer a little more coverage from your sweater, look for a sweater that's tunic length or longer. Tunic-length sweaters cover your butt and look cute and cozy. They work well paired with skinny jeans or leggings.
If you want a full sweater outfit, a sweater dress could be the look for you. You can find sweater dresses in all lengths: mini, midi, and maxi. Because a crewneck sweater dress is a lot of fabric visually, we recommend choosing a lighter material without too many embellishments so it doesn’t swallow you up.
Choose a Fit for Layering or Wearing Alone
Do you like to finish off your look with a chunky sweater? Or do you prefer a clean, fitted look? The fit of your sweater will affect its overall style as well as how easy it is to layer.
Fitted Sweaters Make Great Basics
A fitted crewneck is a wardrobe staple that can be worn layered underneath other clothing or on its own. It should skim the body and cling lightly with a good amount of stretch.
Avoid sweaters that are too tight; not only will they be uncomfortable, they’re typically not very flattering. Fitted sweaters tend to look professional and polished, and they are often easy to dress up or down.
Loose Sweaters Look Super Cozy
A relaxed fit or oversized sweater is great for layering over other clothes as a comfy top layer. To avoid being swallowed up by all the fabric, look for a loose sweater with some structural details, like ribbed cuffs or exposed seams.
Loose sweaters generally come across as more casual and trendy than fitted sweaters, but you can always add a front-tuck for a more polished look. Since loose sweaters don’t sit as close to your body, they’re more likely to let cold air in. If warmth is a concern, make sure you add a fitted layer underneath.
Go Beyond the Classic Crewneck
If you’re looking for a simple, basic crewneck sweater that will go with anything, finding one you like probably won’t be too hard. And since there’s so much variety, you can afford to be picky with the materials and the fit.
However, if you’re looking for something more unique, a crewneck makes a great canvas for playing around with different patterns, textures, and shapes.
Patterns Add Visual Interest
A colorful pattern can take a basic crewneck sweater to the next level. Stripes are a classic pattern that can look playful or sophisticated. Generally, wider, multicolored stripes look more youthful, while thin stripes in neutral colors look polished and elegant.
Another classic pattern is Fair Isle, where multiple colors are used to weave intricate geometric patterns, creating a rustic, cozy look. If you lean more feminine, try a crewneck sweater with polka dots, hearts, or a floral design.
Textures Create Subtle Visual Interest
A traditional crewneck sweater uses a flat knit, creating a solid piece of fabric with uniform stitches. To add some visual interest while keeping to a single color, look for a sweater with textural details.
Cable knit is a common style of knitting that creates the look of twisted cables running the length of the sweater. It looks classic, cozy, and rustic. Waffle knit is another common style that creates a texture that looks like little squares. It has a more casual vibe than flat knit.
The thickness of the sweater can affect the texture and ranges from super chunky to delicate and lacy. Another way to add textural interest is to pick a material that has texture. For example, mohair is fluffy, while a tweed knit has little spots of thicker colored yarn to create a nubby look.
Unique Shapes Add Drama
If you really want to change things up, look for a crewneck sweater that plays around with shape. For a relaxed look, try a slouchy sweater with drop shoulders. For something more modern, try a cropped, boxy sweater. If you like showing off your layers, opt for a cardigan.
Unique sleeves are a great way to add interest. Try balloon sleeves, puff sleeves, batwing sleeves, short sleeves, or even no sleeves at all!
10 Best Women's Crewneck Sweaters Ranking
Products | Image | Click to purchase | Key features | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
1 | Universal Standard Melissa High-Low Sweater | | A Unique Silhouette With Inclusive Sizing | |
2 | Sunday Best Kitten Sweater | | A Wearable Fluffy Cloud | |
3 | H&M Knit Sweater | | For Chunky Knit Lovers | |
4 | J.Crew Featherweight Cashmere Cardigan Sweater | | An Elegant and Feminine Cardigan | |
5 | Reformation Jour Oversized Crew Sweater | | Stay Cozy in an Oversized Crewneck | |
6 | Madewell Belmore Floral-Sleeve Pullover Sweater | | A Hippie-Inspired Patterned Sweater | |
7 | Everlane The Cashmere Sweater Tee | | An Elevated Tee in Luxe Cashmere | |
8 | Uniqlo Extra Fine Merino Crew Neck Sweater | | A Simple Sweater Great for Layering | |
9 | Free People Bonfire Cardi | | A Cable Knit Cardigan in 100% Cotton | |
10 | L.L.Bean Classic Ragg Wool Fair Isle Crewneck | | Stay Warm and Stylish in Winter Weather |
Universal StandardMelissa High-Low Sweater
A Unique Silhouette With Inclusive Sizing
This asymmetrical crewneck from Universal Standard has a high-low silhouette with a hip-length hem in front that drops to tunic-length in the back. The mohair material and loose fit are snuggly and soft, while ribbing at the hem and cuffs keep things structured.
This sweater should be hand washed. In addition to the beautiful deep red color, it also comes in black, gray, and camel. However, some reviewers with more sensitive skin complained that the sweater was itchy. Others noted that it sheds.
Still, the majority of reviewers found the Melissa sweater to be comfortable and roomy. They said it was the perfect weight - warm but not too bulky - and loved the modern, flattering cut. They also said the sweater has a beautiful heathered texture in person.
A Wearable Fluffy Cloud
The Kitten Sweater is made from fuzzy-knit yarn for a plush texture and super soft feel. It's cut in a cropped silhouette with a classic body-skimming fit and balloon sleeves for some extra drama. It comes in a range of muted colors, including taupe, purple, and baby blue.
Reviewers warned that this sweater runs small and recommended sizing up. Some complained about the fabric shedding. Still, most reviewers praised this sweater's incredibly soft feel, saying that it was cozy and comfortable. They liked the flattering cut and said they received compliments while wearing it!
For Chunky Knit Lovers
Get your chunky knit fix with this crewneck sweater from H&M. It's made from a blend of polyester and acrylic yarn and knit in a thick ribbed pattern. The cuffs, hem, and neckline have a bit of stretch. It has dropped shoulders and is cut in a boxy silhouette for a modern feel.
Some reviewers complained that the sweater was shorter than expected. But the majority of reviewers praised this sweater for being thick, plush, and super soft. They liked the fit and said it was comfortable and warm. Many said it was the perfect sweater for fall and winter!
An Elegant and Feminine Cardigan
This J.Crew cardigan is made from lightweight cashmere for a soft, warm sweater that's perfect for spring days and cool summer nights. It's cut in a fitted silhouette with a length that hits at the hip, great for wearing over other tops or on its own.
Some reviewers said that certain colors of this cardigan were on the sheer side. On the other hand, many reviewers loved its lightweight feel, saying it was soft and comfortable. They appreciated that it could be easily dressed up or down and said it was a classic piece for their wardrobe.
Stay Cozy in an Oversized Crewneck
Cut in a slouchy oversized fit that hits below the hip, this sweater from Reformation gives off comfy and casual vibes. Dropped shoulders contribute to the relaxed look, while ribbing at the cuffs, neckline, and hem provides some structure.
The sweater is made from soft 100% alpaca, a renewable resource with a lower environmental impact than other yarns. For best care, this sweater should be dry cleaned.
A Hippie-Inspired Patterned Sweater
Channel your inner flower child with the Belmore Floral-Sleeve Pullover from Madewell. It has a boxy, slightly cropped silhouette, with wide sleeves for a seventies vibe. Knit flowers adorn the sleeves. Ribbing and rolled seams at the neckline, cuffs, and hem complete the look.
This sweater is made from a cozy cotton blend with a nubby texture. In addition to indigo, it also comes in a neutral heathered sand color. And it's machine washable for easy care!
An Elevated Tee in Luxe Cashmere
Take a casual t-shirt up a notch with this sweater tee from Everlane. Made from grade-A Mongolian cashmere, it's warm, soft, and lightweight. The fit is like your favorite tee; it's slightly relaxed but not too loose. And it comes in a range of colors, including neutral and bright shades.
Some reviewers complained that this sweater tee was too short, especially on those with longer torsos. Others said that certain colors were sheer. However, most reviewers loved this sweater's versatile fit, saying it was easy to pair with anything. They found it to be soft, comfortable, and high quality.
A Simple Sweater Great for Layering
This crewneck sweater from Uniqlo is a versatile staple. It's cut in a classic sweater silhouette with ribbing on the cuffs and hem. The extra-fine knit creates a smooth and lightweight fabric that's still warm, thanks to the 100% merino wool. And to make your life easier, it's machine-washable!
Some reviewers said this sweater was too thin for their liking. Others found that it shrunk or got holes after washing. On the other hand, many reviewers thought this sweater was the perfect weight for layering or wearing alone. They found it to be soft, warm, and comfortable.
A Cable Knit Cardigan in 100% Cotton
Cozy up in the Bonfire Cardi from Free People. It features a cropped slim fit and long sleeves that can cover your hands. The slightly open weave, cable knit pattern, and wooden buttons provide a cozy feel. This sweater comes in neutral colors as well as bright red and fuschia.
Some reviewers complained that this cardigan was too bulky in the arms, making it uncomfortable. On the other hand, many reviewers loved the chunky knit and cable texture. They said this was a versatile cardigan that could go with everything, calling it a fall and winter staple.
Stay Warm and Stylish in Winter Weather
This cold-weather crewneck from L.L.Bean features a Fair Isle pattern for that heritage feel. Made from a midweight lambswool yarn, it keeps you super warm without adding too much bulk. It has a classic silhouette; it's slightly fitted and hits at the hip, with raglan sleeves and a roll trim at the neck. This sweater should be hand washed.
Some reviewers complained that this sweater was itchy, which was especially noticeable around the neck. However, most reviewers loved how cozy this sweater was, saying it kept them super warm. They also praised the beautiful design and colors.
A Sweater a Day Keeps the Cold Away
There's no such thing as too many sweaters. Check out more of our favorite knitted picks!
Top 5 Women's Crewneck Sweaters
No. 1: Universal Standard｜Melissa High-Low Sweater
No. 2: Sunday Best｜Kitten Sweater
No. 3: H&M｜Knit Sweater
No. 4: J.Crew｜Featherweight Cashmere Cardigan Sweater
No. 5: Reformation｜Jour Oversized Crew Sweater
View Full RankingThe descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.
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