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They'll make you forget cashmere Womens Swesters
Somewhere in Australia or Spain, a flock of merino sheep are grazing in a pasture. Soon, their coats will be shorn and the fibers will be spun into thin, soft merino wool known for its ability to wick away moisture and resist odor.
As you're filling in the gaps of your fall wardrobe, the best merino wool sweaters will provide not just comfort—they're great for helping to regulate your temperature throughout the day—but also a stylish alternative to cozy sweatshirts you're used to wearing. One sweater could make all the difference.
"Merino wool is an incredible natural material," explained Alex Crane, the founder of his eponymous New York brand. "It's supremely soft and warm, lightweight, naturally breathable, and it dries super fast. It's also naturally renewable (grows back every year) and fully biodegradable. It's basically the linen of the Fall."
While some of our favorite sweaters in this story are blended with materials like nylon for additional stretch, Crane's preference is for clothing made of 100% natural fibers, whether that be alpaca or cotton blends, or merino alone. "They're renewable, biodegradable, and remain integrated with the Earth's natural cycles."
Some sweaters are too heavy or scratchy to wear directly on the skin, but merino wool sweaters make a great base layer. Try a thin second-skin turtleneck under a button-down, or opt for a bulkier knit that you can style with a trench coat or blazer. Merino wool sweaters are also great for bringing along on any leaf-peeping outdoor adventures or cool-weather hikes (we even included an option designed specifically for hitting the ski slopes). Whether your ideal fall weekend involves curling up on the couch or heading into nature, shop the best merino wool sweaters for women from brands like Bode, Everlane, and Alex Mill.
Keep things simple with a sleek cardigan that can stand on its own. It also happens to make a great layering piece on days at the office when you're wearing it open with a dress underneath.
On the next rainy day, cozy up in this half-zip sweater. Pulling on the oversize silhouette will feel like tucking into a soft cocoon.
Colors: Green, navy, beach, Heathered oat, and more
What reviewers are saying: "This sweater is so comfortable! It’s my favorite and go-to on cooler days. It is a great layering piece and so versatile. It’s a staple!"
Easing into cooler weather means layering cool-weather pieces with some of your favorite everyday styles. A fine-weave sweater is a great base layer for styling with button-downs and blazers.
Add a little punch of color to your look with a printed cardigan from New York label Bode. Slouchy raglan sleeves bring a relaxed feel to your overall ensemble.
Your neck will have all of the protection it needs thanks to this chunky turtleneck. The blend of Merino wool and nylon will be soft to the touch, but with a comfy stretch.
Colors: Evergreen, black, ivory, and walnut
What reviewers are saying: "Exactly what I was looking for. Super stylish, a bit oversized and very comfortable. Can’t wait for some cooler nights so I can wear this."
Incorporate this more lightweight knit into your look on days when the weather doesn't demand something bulkier. The loose fit is great for tucking into a high-waisted skirt or a pair of trousers.
Uniqlo has mastered the art of comfortable and affordable basics and this merino wool sweater is no exception. It's processed with an anti-pilling finish and is also machine washable. There's also a ribbed hem to prevent sagging.
Colors: Pink, black, gray, and more.
Don't be afraid of wearing a white sweater, especially one like A.L.C.'s with a cropped fit and dramatic sleeves. Just make sure you have a napkin handy when you're anywhere a spill risk might arise.
"The Campo Sweater is soft enough to wear on your bare skin," Crane said. And while some sweaters are hard to pull on and off, this one glides on easily. An added bonus? It's also machine washable.
Colors: Tank, ink, chai, storm
Incorporate a little sparkle into your wardrobe ahead of the holidays. This playful sweater, complete with a flouncy ruffled neck, adds something fun to your everyday uniform.
Colors: Metallic pink, silver, black, ivory
A simple, black sweater is a wardrobe staple that you'll find yourself returning to over and over again. For a soft and slouchy version, try this blend made with merino wool and alpaca.
A sleek interpretation of a classic fisherman sweater, Argent's knit is designed with a split hem for easy tucking. Since the brand specializes in workwear, know that this sweater will be a fit for the office.
Hit the slopes in a quick-drying sweater that will keep you sweat-free after every run. The bold design makes it clear what your day will entail.
Bella Freud is known for its collection of fitted sweaters emblazoned with fun phrases. Commemorate the best of times with a celebratory sweater.
Embrace a statement silhouette. Proenza Schouler's cable-knit sweater is sleek, but the addition of bell sleeves adds a feminine touch.
For more than 150 years, Harper’s Bazaar has been the preeminent fashion, beauty, and lifestyle resource for women at every age. We cover what’s new and what’s next in fashion by working with the world’s leading authorities in ready-to-wear, footwear, accessories, and more. Every story we publish has been thoroughly researched and vetted by our team of editors and industry experts.
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