The Best Black Sweaters to Buy in 2023

Gone are the days of thick, itchy woolen sweaters being the only option for staying warm. Today, sweaters come in all shapes, sizes, and materials, making them a versatile and stylish option for any wardrobe. But there’s one cozy knit that stands out above the rest: the black sweater.

Think about it: black goes with everything. Jeans, skirts, dress pants, you name it. It’s the little black dress of the sweater world. Plus, it’s easy to dress up or down, making it the perfect option for any occasion. This particular style is also a great option for any occasion—you can wear it out to dinner or to work, or add some bling accessories to pop it off your shoulders for a night on the town!

Black is definitely a classic color choice, but it’s not always the best option when it comes to fashion. The trick to finding your new favorite black sweater is to look for one that’s made with high-quality materials like cashmere or merino wool. If you want something that will last and keep you warm, then you need to invest in a quality piece of clothing.

But don’t be fooled—not all black sweaters are created equal. You can find tons of different styles and cuts that will help make your outfit stand out from the crowd. And if you’re feeling daring? Why not add a pop of color to your black sweater with a statement necklace or bright scarf? Trust us, it’s a game-changer!

Ready to up your sweater game? Keep scrolling for our top picks for the best black sweaters that will make you look and feel amazing.

When you’re looking for a super-lightweight, cozy sweater to layer over your favorite dress, this is it.

Since it’s made of 100% organic cotton and is lightweight, this fisherman knit sweater can be worn all day without making you feel like you’re bundled up for winter. It’s got an allover rib design that makes it look like the perfect layering piece for fall through spring—but just because it’s so light doesn’t mean we don’t love it in its own right!

This piece will take you from cooler weather to warmer spring days with ease, and it pairs well with jeans or airy silk skirts.

“I love how sturdy, comfortable, and warm this sweater is. It is easily styled and retains its size and structure well after washing,” wrote one wearer.

You know what’s better than a cozy sweater? A cozy sweater that’s also super soft, has a pretty off-the-shoulder neckline and shaped bust detail, and fits like a dream?

Well, I have good news for you: Hollister has got all of those things in this sweater! The off-the-shoulder neckline and shaped bust detail make this sweater look like you worked really hard for your body, and we love how effortless it makes you look.

Plus, the slim fit means that this sweater is perfect for layering under other sweaters or jackets

If you’re looking for a throwback look that still feels modern, this is the pullover for you.

It’s got the weighty, cozy feel of your favorite vintage sweatshirt, but it comes in a modern oversized fit courtesy of SKIMS. And it’s unisex, so anyone can wear it! The ribbed neckband and waistband keep it comfortable and secure, while the cuffs help keep the sleeves in place.

This is a great go-to sweater for casual days when you want to feel like you’re wearing something that feels good—but without having to worry about getting all dressed up!

According to reviews, “I’ve grown to love it! The sweater is so comfortable to wear out and the neck stretches a bit so it’s not super tight or uncomfortable throughout the day.”

This cropped sweater is a great fit for any occasion. It’s hip length, so it doesn’t feel like you’re wearing a potato sack, but it still covers your shoulders when you need it to.

The long sleeve and ribbed cuff give extra coverage without being too big, so you can be stylish and warm at the same time! The slightly looser sleeve keeps it from being too tight around your shoulders or arms, but still gives you some extra room to move around in.

Furthermore, the turtleneck makes the sweater look put together and professional, even if you’re just running through the airport on your way to work or class. And the unfinished hem makes it easy to keep clean if necessary—just throw this thing in the wash when it gets dirty!

When the temperature drops and you can’t bear to wear a cardigan, this Free People sweater is just what you need.

It’s a plush, texturally rich item that seems tailor-made for you, and that’s because it was. Dropped sleeves and a jeweled neckline give this top a feminine touch, while the ribbing at the hem gives it a sporty edge.

It’s a versatile weekend staple that works well with jeans, cords, or everything in between.

Something Navy‘s Cableknit Crew Neck Sweater in black is the ultimate cable knit and a must-have for winter. This warm staple sweater has a classic oversized cut and wide, striped cable knit accents. 

Wrapping up by the fire or attending a Christmas party, this classic crew neck will quickly become your favorite sweater. The length of this sweater makes it ideal for wearing over a variety of bottoms, including leggings, jeans, and t-shirts.

In our opinion, it looks well with everything from a plain tank top and jeans to a formal dress and eye-catching jewelry.

The Knotty Ones, the brand that takes you to a place where you can wear your heart on your sleeve and make people feel good about themselves, has a new look.

The label was inspired by the changing cycles of the moon, so they created a sweater in a waffle knit that will make you feel like you’ve always had it, even if you’ve only just gotten it.

Princess Polly‘s take on the sweater silhouette is adorable, and the fit is relaxed enough that you can wear it at work or out with friends. It’s also made of ribbed material, so it’s super soft against your skin.

The mock neckline adds a bit of interest and makes the sweater feel more like a dress than a simple sweater. Meanwhile, it has splits at the side hem that provide just enough to make this feel like a flattering piece of apparel.

The flared cuff gives it some extra flair without being too much: it’s more of an accent than anything else.

We’ve got a feeling you’re going to love this sweater.

It’s the perfect blend of comfort, style, and luxury. It’s made from warm, soft fabric that feels like butter on your skin, and it has just enough stretch to be comfortable but not too much to make you feel like you’re in a sack.

The mock turtleneck collar is just right—not too tight, not too loose—and the cut-out v-neck is so flattering that it’ll make heads turn wherever you go.

This black sweater is made for lounging around, daydreaming, and getting lost in your own thoughts.

It’s a loose-fit garment with a soft, cozy knit and a crocheted look that makes it feel like you’re wearing something handmade. The round neckline is drop-shoulder perfection and the long sleeves are just long enough to keep you comfortable on those chilly days.

And the ribbing at the neckline, cuffs, and hem adds just enough structure without being too stiff—you’ll feel like you’re in a cloud when you wear it!

Embrace the dark side, and add a black sweater to your wardrobe today. It’s the perfect versatile piece you never knew you needed. We hope you all enjoyed our round-up of the best styles on the market today and don’t forget, be confident in everything you wear!

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What to Look for in Sweaters

Comfort and Softness

The feel of the fabric against your skin is an essential factor that can significantly influence your comfort. Natural fibers like cashmere, merino wool, or alpaca are typically softer and gentler on the skin compared to synthetic materials. However, there can be exceptions to this rule depending on the quality of the material and the processing methods used. So, it’s always a good idea to touch and feel the sweater before purchasing. Our top pick for softness, for instance, combines a blend of merino wool and cashmere, giving it a luxurious feel without compromising durability.

Breathability

Breathability refers to how well the material allows air and moisture to pass through. A breathable sweater will keep you comfortable by preventing excessive sweating and overheating when it’s warm, while still providing enough insulation to keep you warm when it’s cold. Natural fibers like wool and cotton are known for their excellent breathability, while certain synthetics like polyester are less breathable. Check the composition of the material to ensure it aligns with your comfort and weather requirements.

Seam Construction

Quality seam construction is a telltale sign of a well-made sweater. Look at where the different parts of the sweater meet, such as the shoulder seams and the sides. These seams should be flat, tight, and smooth, with no signs of fraying or loose threads. High-quality sweaters will often have reinforced seams to prevent stretching and distortion, ensuring the garment maintains its shape over time.

Sizing

Lastly, take into account the fit of the sweater. Ideally, a sweater should provide a fit that complements your body type and personal fashion preference. If it’s too snug, it might impede your mobility or accentuate areas you’d rather not draw attention to. On the other hand, if it’s too baggy, the sweater might appear untidy or shapeless.

When purchasing, aim for sweaters with explicit sizing instructions, including dimensions for the chest, waist, and sleeve length. Bear in mind that natural fiber sweaters, such as those made from wool or cashmere, could shrink if not handled correctly, so it might be advisable to opt for a larger size if you’re caught between two. The perfect fit, along with an appealing cut and style, can transform any sweater into a standout piece in your clothing collection.

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FAQ

What are the different types of sweaters?

There’s a wealth of sweater styles available, each contributing a unique flair to your overall look. Classic styles include crewnecks and v-necks, which offer a timeless, versatile aesthetic that can be dressed up or down. Turtlenecks have seen a resurgence in recent years, providing a trendy, sophisticated option that also keeps you warm in colder months.

Oversized cardigans offer a relaxed, casual vibe and can be layered over various outfits for added warmth and style. The style of your sweater can significantly influence the vibe of your outfit, so consider your personal fashion sense and the occasion when selecting a sweater style.

What is the best fabric for sweaters?

Sweaters can be crafted from a variety of materials, including natural fibers like wool and cashmere, as well as synthetic ones like polyester and acrylic. The choice of material can greatly affect the comfort and durability of the sweater. Natural fibers like wool and cashmere are renowned for their superior warmth and breathability, offering a luxurious feel.

However, they can be a bit delicate and require careful handling. On the other hand, synthetic materials such as polyester and acrylic are often more resilient and budget-friendly, but they might not provide the same level of warmth and breathability as their natural counterparts. When selecting a sweater, consider your comfort preferences, care routine, and budget to choose the material that best suits your needs.

How do you style a black sweater?

A black sweater is an undeniable essential in any wardrobe, renowned for its capacity to shift between casual and formal looks with ease. One way to wear it is by pairing it with your beloved denim, be it skinny jeans or a relaxed denim skirt. This combination creates a look that’s both comfortable and stylish, perfect for a laid-back weekend. Depending on your plans, you can complete this outfit with either a pair of casual sneakers or chic ankle boots.

For a more sophisticated appearance, think about layering your black sweater over a white collared shirt. The white collar, cuffs, and hem stand out beautifully against the dark sweater, resulting in a look that’s both refined and approachable. This outfit works wonderfully with tailored pants or a structured skirt, and can be finished off with a pair of loafers or pumps for a professional setting or semi-formal event.

For those who like to add a bit of an edge to their outfits, pairing a black sweater with leather pants or a skirt is a winning combination. The contrast of the cozy sweater with the sleek leather offers a striking balance that’s both modern and chic. Ankle boots and statement jewelry are the perfect finishing touches to this trendy ensemble. Remember, the most important aspect of styling any piece is to let your individual style lead the way and to embrace the joy of experimenting with different combinations and accessories.