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These Cute Fall Sweater Trends Will Make You Look Like the Heroine of a '90s Rom-Com

It's giving Meg Ryan in You've Got Mail.

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model wearing a grey sweater
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The Cozy Girl Hive has truly been blessed, because this fall and winter are set to be comfier than ever before. UGG boots are trending, Lola Blankets are having a huge moment, and sweater trends are chicer than I've ever seen them (and trust me, I've seen a lot of sweaters).

Autumn's most timeless staple has been reimagined in dozens of new and stylish ways for the current season. You're no longer restricted to plain cardigans and cream-colored cashmere knits (although both are still cute and available for your shopping pleasure). This season, options run the style spectrum—from cozy, cute, and classic to edgy and fashion-forward.

You'll find all of these sweater trends and more ahead (think: retro ribbed, Fair Isle, and belted looks galore). They're simply begging to be added to your shopping cart. And if you need outfit ideas to help you style your brand new sweater, Cosmo has a story for that, too.

In September 2023, Loewe showed an ankle-length cape with a chunky knit and gold statement buttons. Two years later, we're all still trying to duplicate that vibe. To any fashion girlies reading this: It comes in five different colors, just saying.

Inspired by Princess Dianne's "I'm a Luxury" sweater, retro sports-inspired styles are trending across the industry. The vaguely athletic vibe will come in handy for events, like tennis matches, hockey games, and football tailgates.

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Millennials will be thrilled to learn that peplum is officially back, and that the structured look is just as cute on a longline sweater as it is a tailored suit jacket.

While everyone else was anticipating the return of their fall boots, I've been antsy to wear my beloved collection of rugby shirts. This season, adding a sweater version is at the top of my to-do list.

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Graphic sweaters with animals on them like this cute little dachshund feel so preppy and cozy for the fall season. Style with plaid to amp up the seasonal vibes!

Wrap sweaters and ballet flats just so happen to pair incredibly well together (with a pair of pleated trousers, of course)!

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After several years out of the limelight, horizontal stripes are, once again, taking center stage in the fall collections. You can't go wrong with a black-and-white style, of course, but brightly-colored stripes like these make the trend feel so whimsical.

Argyle is making a return for fall 2025, and the 3D bows are the cherry on top of this particular argyle sweater.

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this wear-with-everything sweater

Everlane Half-Zip Sweater in Luxe Merino

Half-Zip Sweater in Luxe Merino

There's just something about a half-zip sweater that feels so distinctly fall. When you're wearing one of these, the cozy vibes are truly unmatched.

10
this draped shawl sweater

Topshop Knit Scarf Sweater

Knit Scarf Sweater

Last year, scarf coats were item number one on everyone's fall shopping list. This season, that same energy is coming for your knitwear. It literally doesn't get more effortlessly chic than a draped scarf-sweater in a rich jewel tone.

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Breton Stripe Half-Zip Sweater
Credit: Diane Vasil

As previously stated, nautical stripes are in their renaissance era. Add a pleated skirt and pearls, then go take pics by a tennis court (you don't actually have to play).

I'll be the first to admit that sweaters can easily feel a bit uncreative. But, thankfully, labels are now prioritizing designs with posh design details. Peplum and wrap scarves fall under this category, as does this belted style.

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Every hot girl has one of these spicy numbers in her fall rotation. The plush collar adds a sultry feel to an otherwise simple garment. Cardigans have literally never looked so good.

To all the Gen Zers looking to dupe that authentic, early-2000s vibe: New winter staple just dropped.

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With the rise of Lisa Says Gah! and Damson Madder, kitschy sweaters are in their prime—as are those of us who appreciate a good novelty moment.

Après ski, anyone? Fair Isle sweaters automatically give off that vibe—just add hot chocolate.

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CashSoft Shaker-Stitch Turtleneck Sweater
Now 21% Off

I'm literally counting down the minutes until I can finally break out my favorite cherry red sweaters—not sweater, sweaters. They pair so well with so much that you simply can't have just one.

There are few things better that soft alpaca wool on a cold day—except maybe striped alpaca wool on a cold day.

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There's a reason every rom-com star owns at least one iteration of the cable-knit sweater. The look is classic as they come and utterly timeless.

This summer, babushkas began trending in full force. Thankfully, with fall's arrival, we can usher the granny-approved trend into its prime. Fans can shop the look solo or invest in sweater/scarf co-ords for that matchy-matchy vibe.

Headshot of Kelsey Stiegman

Kelsey (she/her) is a freelance digital fashion editor and writer with a knack for turning top-performing content into top-selling content. She has extensive experience in editorial and e-commerce strategy, having worked in both divisions during her years at Seventeen and Bustle. With more than a decade of experience in digital media, she also offers creative and social media consulting, as well as copywriting services. She enjoys cheeseburgers, traveling, and vintage hauls. Follow her on Instagram at @klstieg.

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