Don’t worry if you are not familiar with the numerous types of sweaters. Entering the world of sweaters and discovering the enormous variety of knitwear designs and styles might be frightening. But did you know that sweaters come in a wide range of names and styles, each with a unique fabric, pattern, and style?
Most people don’t know the names of all types of sweaters. They often have no idea what they are or how to use them, even if they may have worn them. We provide you with the most extensive list and resources to help you learn everything there is to know about different types of sweaters.
What Is A Sweater?
To keep warm and protect the wearer from the cold, sweaters are knit clothing that covers the upper body. Sweaters can be made from many different types of textiles, such as blends of wool, silk, and cotton. A vast range of shapes, styles, colours, and patterns are also possible for them.
Different Types of Sweaters For Men and Women
This guide reveals a range of 53 different types of knit sweaters, including both beloved classics and cutting-edge choices. You can be sure that we have you covered, whether you have an intense interest in fashion or just want to add the ideal sweater to your collection.
Examine the most fashionable styles of sweaters more closely if you’re looking for your perfect go-to casual ensemble or something more formal.
Aran/Fisherman Sweater
The Aran sweater, also called fisherman’s sweater, originated in the Aran Islands, which are located off the coast of Ireland. The thick, textured sweater was designed to be worn outdoors; it comes in a variety of colours, such as browns, tans, greens, or other earth tones, that go well with the rugged surroundings for which they were meant.
Compared to other different kinds of sweaters, fishermen’s sweaters are thicker and offer plenty of warmth, all the while facilitating easy movement for activities like fishing or manual labour on the water. Although machine-knitted versions are also available, they usually have a thinner texture than hand-knitted versions, which are frequently thicker and heavier in texture. Typically, wool yarn is used to make them since it is resilient in outdoor environments.
Acrylic Sweater
Acrylic sweaters are so affordable that they make excellent substitutes for wool sweaters. Their tendency to stretch out of proportion is a drawback if they are not carefully cleaned and dried. Cheap, inferior acrylic sweaters can pill a lot, not last long, and sometimes even itch. Some of the drawbacks can be avoided if you can get lightweight, anti-pilling, acrylic sweaters that are colorfast.
Argyle Sweater
The pattern of characteristic interlocking diamond shapes is what makes the argyle knit so famous. This kind is best suited for activities on golf courses.
The best yarn blends are typically used to create argyle-knit garments. Additionally, the knit sweater with an argyle pattern is intriguing due to its interlocking diamond forms, which also add to its comfort and durability.
Boyfriend Sweaters
Boyfriend types of women’s sweaters are a cosily stylish trend that has been increasingly popular due to their widespread social media popularity in recent years.
Boyfriend sweaters are defined by their loose fit, which takes the cosiness and warmth of a boyfriend’s sweater and gives women’s fashion a dash of casual elegance. Boyfriend sweaters, which are typically made of plush, soft materials like cotton or wool, have a carefree appearance that makes them ideal for cold days and informal get-togethers.
In addition to being comfortable, the roomy silhouette gives any ensemble a fashionable and effortlessly cool vibe. Boyfriend sweaters are a wardrobe essential that can be worn with skinny jeans, leggings, or over a dress. They offer the ideal balance of comfort and style for individuals who want a laid-back yet fashionable look.
Bell Sleeve Sweater
The bell-sleeve sweater is vintage-inspired with flared sleeves. Bell sleeves were first popularised more than a millennium ago in the East. In Europe during the Middle Ages, fashion gained prominence. It has occasionally been a fashion trend in its lengthy history.
Button-front Cardigan
An essential piece of clothing that can be dressed up or down and fits for any occasion is the classic button-front cardigan. This type of sweater has an eye-catching design with its long sleeves, ribbed cuffs, and hem.
Button-front cardigans, which come in a gorgeous array of materials such as wool, cotton, and blends of synthetic textiles, demonstrate their adaptability by falling elegantly over dresses, matching skirts or slacks, or even teaming with a blazer for an elegant look.
Boat Neck Sweater
Sweaters with boat necks feature a broad neckline that crosses the collarbone. The leotards worn by dancers served as the major source of inspiration for these types of sweaters for ladies.
Cape Sweater
Classic capes are similar to cape sweaters. Sometimes, though, they appear to be antique outerwear. The fact that they can be utilised for both indoor and outdoor activities makes them popular. Designed to be worn as a layer, these sweaters are not meant to be worn alone, which sets them apart from numerous other types of knit sweaters.
Certain clothing articles are better made using different types of fabric. Given that we’re discussing sweaters, particularly capes, wool is the most well-known material to choose if you want the right amount of warmth.
Cardigan
An open-front sweater is called a cardigan. This knitwear adds style and comfort in the winter, making it perfect for layering. Combining it with various tops allows you to create stylish yet comfortable ensembles. There are many different lengths of cardigans, from longline designs that reach the thighs or even the knees to cropped patterns that hit the waist.
- Women’s cardigans are available in a wide range of lengths and designs, from the traditional tuxedo (which has two knit layers) to an easy-to-throw-on open-knit type that’s perfect for early mornings when the weather is chilly.
- Men’s cardigans come in a variety of light and dark hues, such as charcoal, beige, natural white, and navy blue. There are many lovely, natural colours and styles to select from, and these distinctive men’s knits have something special about them. Every stitch has a narrative of beauty of its own.
Cable Sweater
This pullover crewneck sweater has intricate, complex cable knit designs that imitate braids, twisted ropes, and other patterns. This sweater may have cable patterns on the front or all over. The most commonly used cable knit designs are knots, lattices, Saxon braids, and honeycomb patterns.
Cashmere Sweater
Cashmere sweaters are often made with luxurious cashmere wool, which has less itchiness and is naturally soft. Cashmere sweaters are hand-knitted to feel particularly comfortable after being softly brushed, which makes them softer than other sweater varieties!
Cut-out Sweater
Cutout sweaters have a chic and seductive appeal. If you’ve ever worn or seen a cutaway sweater, you are aware of how stylish and modern this style is due to its purposeful lack of pattern.
In certain places, it displays your skin. You can choose from different sweater styles, including ones with carved openings on the back or chest, cutaway sleeves, and cut out shoulders.
Additionally, these cutout sweaters gently reveal more skin to give off an enticing vibe or a hint of sensuality. Additionally, 100% cotton increases breathability, but you are free to substitute other materials if you would rather.
Chunky Sweater
Big sweaters are great for everyone. This type of sweater is heavier and thicker than a pullover or cardigan, making it perfect for wintertime climates.
Bulky sweaters are the consequence of knitting thick yarn with larger needles. They can be knitted in a more textured stitch pattern or a basic garter stitch. Despite not being the most attractive of ladies, thick sweaters have a lot going for them in terms of the “cosy factor”!
Crew Neck Sweater
The crewneck sweater is the next style we’ll examine. This traditional design is comfortable, easy to wear, and perfect for lazy days! It goes great with everything!
Crew-neck sweaters have rounded necklines and are frequently composed of cotton or wool. They may be worn for any occasion all year and look great with dresses, pencil skirts, and jeans. Wear it with fitted slacks and layer it over a collared shirt for a refined and elegant look. To further elevate the ensemble, think about adding a scarf or a bold necklace as an accessory. You won’t ever have an excuse not to wear one because of how adaptable they are!
Cowl Neck Sweater
Cowl-neck sweaters add a dash of modern style to any outfit with their draped neckline, which resembles that of a slack turtleneck. This specific look gives your chosen ensemble a contemporary and fashionable touch.
Due to their warm, luxurious materials—such as wool or cashmere—cowl-neck sweaters are ideal for the winter months. Go for a warm, carefree look that will make you feel cozy and comfortable by pairing them with jeans or leggings.
Distressed Sweater
A purposefully worn, ripped, or frayed appearance is what defines distressed sweaters. Loose threads, holes, and other wear-and-tear indicators are frequently seen in this style. Some sweaters have massive, obvious holes or frays, giving them an extremely distressed look.
Funnel Neck Sweater
A funnel neck is like a turtle neck when it is, in my perspective, gigantic, like in the image above! Whether the collar is made of synthetic or natural fabric, you can’t wear a funnel neck sweater in hot weather as it scratches around your neck.
These large-neck sweaters are fantastic for those who want to wear a sweater without a jacket in the fall. You can easily wear one over a top or tee and match it with skinny jeans or trousers.
Fanny Sweater
Fascinatingly, a sweater can be classified as a fanny type of sweater knit if it has an extended length, falls below the hips, and covers the back sufficiently. This is what makes a fanny sweater unique.
Fanny sweaters are unique in part because of their characteristics and fabric selections. To offer comfort and style to the wearer, soft knits, cashmere, and even wool blends are popular fabric choices.
Fanny sweaters, on the other hand, defy all fashion conventions. Alternatively, they can be manufactured to offer a great degree of comfort and a relaxed fit in a variety of styles.
Fair Isle Sweater
Treat yourself to Fair Isle sweaters, which are well-known for their elaborate and vibrant designs that have their origins in the British Isles’ Fair Isle. These amazing sweaters combine geometric shapes, classic patterns, and motifs to create an eye-catching and incredibly warm design. These sweaters look great when worn with jeans or leggings for a carefree, colourful style.
Grandpa Sweater
The Grandpa sweater is a bulky cardigan with a button opening in the front and a cowl neckline. The design is based on a grandfather-wearing style, but it’s available in regular men’s and women’s sizes to fit people of all ages.
This sweater type is available in a single colour, but the traditional version features wood buttons and horizontal row patterns in shades of brown. This look is perfect for everyone who likes retro clothing.
Hoodie Sweater
A hooded sweater is a kind of sweater that resembles a standard hoodie but is made of heavier fabric. Most of these sweaters zip across the front, and most have a hood. But you might also discover pullover versions from hoodie manufacturers. They could include angora wool, cashmere wool, or basic cotton yarn. Certain models additionally feature useful front pockets and drawstrings. There are numerous styles available for hooded sweaters. If you see one, the hood may quickly lead you to believe that it is a hoodie, but you can tell if it is a hoodie material or a hooded sweater based on the fabric.
Henley Sweater
A crew collar and a quarter-button placket that extends to the chest characterise a classic Henley sweater. These sweaters are more frequent in refined men, yet women wear them. The Henley sweater comes in a variety of hues, materials, and silhouettes, including slim-fit.
Hand-Knit Sweater
These are knitted firmly and with thicker yarn, the patterns are distinct and stand out. Hand-knit sweaters are long-lasting; they retain their contours and stitch definition for years. Especially on the Aran Islands, where the Irish sweater originated, they uphold the sophisticated knitwear that is associated with a lengthy custom that is still practised in Ireland today.
Jacquard Sweater
The fashion preferences of women are constantly evolving. Jacquard sweaters are created using sophisticated machinery and the latest technology. Repetitive designs are expertly and precisely printed on the cloth. A jacquard pattern is any pattern that is not embroidered, printed, or stamped onto the fabric; rather, it is woven into the fabric itself. All weaves and yarn types can be used to create a jacquard.
Jumpers
Jumpers are the most casual type of sweater; they come in long and short-sleeved variations. The best thing about these sweaters is that they may be worn to work or other places where a less formal appearance is desired!
Mock-Turtleneck Sweater
Mock turtleneck sweaters are a contemporary interpretation of the classic turtleneck sweater style, and they come in various lengths. Mock Neck sweaters complement both dressy and informal looks, making them incredibly adaptable. Wear them by themselves for a casual yet sophisticated look, or layer them under blazers or jackets for an eye-catching ensemble.
These sweaters combine great with jeans, shorts, and skirts, making them perfect for anybody looking to add some colour to their wardrobe without going crazy! If you purchase or make one from a lighter-weight knit fabric, they also layer nicely.
Oversized Sweaters
It makes sense that oversized sweaters are a hot trend for a reason—they’re the perfect way to remain warm on chilly days or when worn with your favourite jeans.
Open Cardigan
Open cardigans, sometimes called open-front or waterfall cardigans, are a great alternative to button-front versions because of their easygoing, carefree spirit. These cardigans flow nicely open without the confines of buttons or fastenings, giving off a carefree, effortless vibe that is perfect for everyday use.
Open cardigans are ideal for adding a cosy and stylish element to any ensemble by layering them over basic t-shirts or tank tops. They effortlessly transition from warmer to cooler weather because of their fascinating diversity of lengths and materials, which also adds a refined touch to any ensemble.
Off-The-Shoulder Sweater
True to its name, this sweater has a wide neck that draws attention to your shoulders and upper chest. The off-the-shoulder sweater’s form-fitting design adds to its sensual and stylish appeal. It peaked in popularity in the 1890s and had a comeback in the 1970s and 1980s. It looks best with classic thin jeans or ones that are torn or tattered.
Pull-over Sweater
A pullover sweater is an entirely closed style that has arm and head openings.
There are a plethora of lengths, designs, colours, and materials available for pullover sweaters. Additionally, you will put on a pullover sweater head and arms first, pulling it down to your waist, in contrast to cardigans, which have wide front openings.
Poncho
This one has a really warm woollen fabric, which is quite useful in the winter. It improves the person’s appearance in addition to keeping them warm. Since they are so cosy, ponchos are very popular among women of all ages. It’s even more amazing because you can dress elegantly for both official and informal events.
Puff Sleeve Sweater
Puff-sleeve sweaters have an adorable appeal. With their puffy sleeves that lend a whimsical touch to any ensemble, these sweaters offer a fun spin on comfortable comfort. Puff-sleeve sweaters are made from warm, soft materials that are the ideal combination of fashion and cosiness. Wear them with skirts or denim for an effortlessly elegant yet casual look.
Polo Sweater
The polo t-shirt serves as the model for the polo sweater. It features a collared neck and a placket that zips up to the chest or has a few buttons.
Quarter-Zip Sweater
Enter the world of quarter-zip sweaters, where versatility and sportiness go hand in hand. A zipper that extends a fourth of the way down these unique sweaters allows for adjustability and breathability. Quarter-zip sweaters, which are frequently made of heavier fabrics like fleece or wool, show their resilience when engaging in outdoor activities or on brisk golf course days.
Raglan Sweater
Raglan sweaters have a particular kind of sleeve that runs down the front and back of the garment from the armhole to the base of the neck. Raglan sweaters include extended sleeves that span the full shoulder and have cuts in the style of an inverted “V,” as opposed to the traditional set-in sleeve.
This style of sleeve, which is commonly seen on dresses, t-shirts, coats, and other clothing, is called raglan.
Running Sweater
Despite what the general public believes, these sweaters aren’t merely designed to keep you warm. A few are designed with fitness aficionados in mind. Running sweaters, sometimes referred to as fitness sweaters, have mesh panels for ventilation. They guarantee that you sweat the most when exercising and prevent you from overheating.
Ribbed Sweater
Long vertical lines are created throughout the sweater by using a knitting technique known as a rib. The sweaters on this list are among the many different styles of ribbed sweaters that are available. This is so because the fabric—rather than the sweater’s shape, length, or style—is included in the term.
Though this type of knitting doesn’t allow for much elasticity, ribbed knits are one of the most preferred materials for sweaters. Movement restrictions may result from this.
Roll-Neck Sweater
A sweater with a neckband extension that folds over itself is called a roll-neck sweater. For the neckband to be folded in half over itself, it must be long enough—at least twice the length of the neck. These necks come in a variety of forms and sizes. A roll neck, for instance, is a turtleneck that rolls over on itself. However, a roll-neck sweater also has a cowl neck that folds over on itself.
Ski Sweater
A ski sweater is something you wear in between your jeans and your ski jacket. The sweaters of this sort fit closely and are medium-weight. These are usually composed of blends of wool and polyester. Over long days spent in the snow, this sweater provides an extra layer of protection. They are available in an array of hues and designs, with crew, turtle, or shawl neck styles. Ski sweaters are clothes for activewear.
Striped Sweater
Who doesn’t adore a sweater with stripes? Stripes can be uniform, lopsided, narrow, or wide. They can be dispersed widely or positioned carefully.
Scoop Neck Sweater
The wide, round neckline of a scooped-neck sweater typically reveals your collarbones as well as your neck. Nonetheless, some have necks that can reach a little lower. As a result, there are two basic varieties: one has a semi-circular neckline, and the other has a U form. Wear a collared shirt or blouse underneath if you want to wear this sweater design in a formal situation.
Sweatshirt-Style Sweater
This one is ideal for ladies who like to jog and visit the gym all year. Standard sweatshirts are lightweight and effectively absorb perspiration. The same is true for a sweatshirt-style sweater, which is ideal for the winter. Many women will probably find great use for this article of clothing. They can still go outside and do things without becoming sick when the weather gets chilly.
Shawl Collar Sweater
Savour the refinement of shawl-collar sweaters, which are a striking fusion of classic design and contemporary sensibilities. These sweaters’ tastefully folded collars give them a refined and endearing vibe.
The shawl collar gives a unique twist to the traditional sweater shape, making it a standout choice for both dressier and more casual settings. For a put-together and carefree style, wear it with a skirt or a pair of fitting pants.
Sweater Vest
Sweater vests add a distinctive and fashionable touch to every outfit. Unlike traditional sweaters, these sleeveless dresses are made with layering in mind, which makes it easy to add warmth and flair to your look.
Among the types of knitted sweaters and materials that sweater vests are composed of are crewneck and v-neck designs; other fabrics include wool and cotton blends.
Sweater Jacket
Sweater jackets, often called knit jackets or cardigan jackets, combine the cosy feel of a sweater with the sophisticated design of a jacket. This combination creates a multipurpose piece of apparel that may be worn as outerwear or layered beneath coats to offer an extra layer of warmth.
There is always a sweater jacket to suit every taste, thanks to the wide range of styles available. Fitted shapes reminiscent of blazers and loose, unstructured patterns are only two examples.
Sweater Dress
Sweater dresses offer a stylish substitute that is appropriate for many occasions by fusing the classic beauty of a dress with the warm embrace of a sweater. These dresses are designed to suit a range of tastes; they come in lengths from midi to maxi and are constructed of knit materials.
For a chic and cosy style, pullover dresses go nicely with tights or leggings and look even better with boots. These dresses guarantee a fusion of comfort and design in one piece, flowing seamlessly from cooler to warmer weather.
Tennis Sweater
Tennis players and enthusiasts have been spotted sporting these sweaters since the 1930s. They come in off-white, cream, ivory, or white colours and have a V-neckline with coloured bands. These sweaters are usually done in a cable knit pattern and are perfect for casual use.
TurtleNeck Sweater
The traditional choice for chilly, wintry days is roll-neck sweaters, sometimes known as turtleneck sweaters. These sweaters offer an unparalleled level of refined design and an additional layer of warmth thanks to their high, folded collar that covers the neck.
Whether worn alone or layered beneath coats or jackets, turtlenecks are a must-have item of apparel for the chilly months. Opt for a luxurious cashmere sweater with a turtleneck silhouette or a chunky knit style to embrace a toasty and comfortable winter outfit.
- Men’s turtleneck sweaters combine warmth and functionality with sophistication and flair. This sweater is made entirely of soft merino wool, so you know it will keep you warm in the winter and cool in the summer.
- Women’s turtleneck sweaters come in a range of colours and make a convincing eye-catcher. It goes well with any ensemble because of its classic cabling and figure-flattering fit.
Tunic Sweater
Due to their combination of style and comfort, tunic sweaters are a terrific option that can be dressed up or down for various occasions.
The lengthier length of tunics—which often fall gracefully below the hips or reach the mid-thigh—makes them popular everywhere. They create a stylish and carefree look, either worn boldly as stand-alone items or tastefully layered over leggings or thin jeans.
Ugly Sweater
Ugly sweaters, also referred to as Christmas sweaters, are a trendy and enjoyable fashion accessory. They stand out with their gaudy, colourful, and garish designs with seasonal themes such as Christmas trees, reindeer, and Santa Claus. They are fun, which makes them popular for both work parties and holiday family get-togethers.
V-Neck Sweater
Sweaters with V-necks are the height of style and sophistication, possessing a level of formality that surpasses even that of crewnecks. One eye-catching detail that makes it a great surface to layer over blouses or collared shirts is the distinctive V-neckline.
Wearing a v-neck sweater with formal pants or a skirt makes it look put-together and fashionable. V-neck sweaters’ inherent versatility makes them an essential component of any fashion-forward outfit.
Wrap Cardigan
Wrap cardigans create a more feminine and fitted silhouette with their wrap-around style and tie or belt clasp. Because of their adaptability, these cardigans may be made to meet your preferred level of comfort and body form.
Wrap cardigans add a touch of sophistication to both dressy and casual outfits. For a more refined appearance, wear them over a dress; alternatively, go casual with jeans and a T-shirt.
Zipper-Style Sweater
It has a zip that you can open or shut based on your preferences and the weather, as the term suggests. The zippered pockets on each side allow the wearer to keep their hands toasty. Because it’s stylish and practical, you can wear this kind of sweater to parties and social events.
Instead of wearing sweatpants with your zip-up, wear tailored jeans to prevent appearing scruffy. Tailored pants go best with a sweater, especially if it’s less fitting. Additionally stylish with slim jeans or even leggings is a zip-up. Wearing your zip-up with baggy sweatpants, gym shorts, or wide-leg jeans is not recommended.
How Are Sweaters And Sweatshirts Different?
In addition to style, sweatshirts and sweaters belong to two different fashion design universes with different cuts, patterns, and embellishments. These are the fundamental components that let them exhibit their individuality and sense of style.
- Sweatshirts are less adaptable than sweaters. It is appropriate for vacation wear as well as daily wear. It looks good as a short dress or paired with a shirt. While sweatpants are usually worn with a sweatshirt for exercise, a sweatshirt is more suitable for casual or athletic use, while it can also be worn for leisure.
- Sweaters are knit or crocheted, in contrast to sweatshirts, which are manufactured similarly to sportswear.
- Another difference between the two—even though they can both be made of wool, cotton, or polyester—is that a sweater is softer since it is knitted using threads.
- Sweatshirts aren’t supposed to absorb sweat; their purpose is to provide warmth. Sweatshirts are made to do both.
Cleaning and Maintaining Sweaters
If you send your favourite winter gear to be dry-cleaned or washed at home without following the right guidelines, it can come out looking terrible. The steps for cleaning a sweater are as follows:
- To start, fill a sink with cold water.
- Add detergent second.
- The sweater needs to be carefully twisted in that liquid mixture.
- The pullover should then be left in the water and detergent mixture for a maximum of fifteen minutes.
- Now remove the sweater and use clean water instead of cold.
- Once you’ve done so, carefully swirl the sweater in the freshwater.
- Now remove it and let it dry on a level surface.
- Avoid twisting or squeezing it, and avoid hanging it to prevent it from stretching.
Hand washing your sweater is the best option to avoid destroying its fabric. Observe the preceding directives before carrying out the deed.
Exploring Sweater Types
We have defined all types of sweaters in this article in great detail. You can determine which different types of sweaters best fit your personality and style by trying on numerous kinds. You can easily style each shirt for any occasion if you are aware of its other features.
Tack Apparel, a clothing manufacturer for small businesses, understands the value of quality sweaters, particularly in all weather conditions. Sweaters have proven to be adaptable and cosy wardrobe essentials that work well for a variety of settings and times of year. So let’s embrace sweaters’ adaptability and expand your creative wardrobe.
FAQs
What is a V-neck sweater called?
In the 1920s, the V-neck jumper gained popularity, although they were referred to as “men’s pullover sweaters” at the time.
What is the name of thick sweaters?
Winter weather is ideal for bulky sweaters, commonly referred to as chunky sweaters. These sweaters boldly display their distinctive thickness elements.
Is it OK for a lady to wear a men’s sweater?
You can, of course. Both the price and the quality are frequently more favourable than in the women’s area.
Which is better, a sweater or a hoodie?
Hoodies resemble sweaters or jumpers in style, but they have a hood fastened to the nape of the neck.
Related : Sweater vs Sweatshirt: Decoding The Winter Champions!
