> At a Glance
> – PEOPLE shopping editors road-tested dozens of sweaters, hoodies and cardigans to find the seven they reach for most.
> – Stand-outs include $50 Quince cashmere, a Mirth cardigan that drew nonstop compliments, and an Alo quarter-zip dubbed a “mom uniform.”
> – Each pick balances comfort, quality and easy styling for work, errands or the sofa.
> – Why it matters: A short list of knits that survive constant wear-and washing-saves shoppers time and money.
After living in more sweaters than they care to count, the PEOPLE Shopping team locked in the seven knits they actually grab all winter.
How They Tested
Editors wore contenders to offices, Zoom calls, school drop-offs and weekend lounging, then ran them through multiple wash cycles. Only pieces that kept their shape, feel and compliments made the cut.
The Winners
Crewnecks & Pullovers
- Quince Mongolian Cashmere Oversized Crewneck-luxuriously soft, relaxed fit and ribbed trim that dresses up easily. One writer bought a second color after living in the first.
- Alo Yoga Accolade Quarter-Zip-structured collar elevates the sweatshirt vibe; paired with matching sweats and Uggs it becomes, in one editor’s words, her “mom uniform.”
- Abercrombie & Fitch Sunday Mockneck Crew-washed repeatedly without pilling; styled with baggy jeans and Birkenstocks for an effortless slouchy look.
Cardigans
- Quince Mongolian Cashmere Cardigan-lightweight yet cozy; french-tucks neatly into denim.
- Mirth Cusco Croissant Cardigan-statement stitchwork that earned a day-long string of office compliments despite the splurge price.
- Sezane Gaspard Cardigan-baby-alpaca/mohair blend feels “never itchy,” layers over dresses or jeans and pops with colorful Mary Janes.
Hoodie
- Everlane Peace and Quiet Cashmere Hoodie-casual silhouette in super-soft cashmere; worn daily for lounging yet refined enough for dinner out.
Key Takeaways
- Quince dominates the list with two $50-$100 cashmere staples.
- Abercrombie’s mockneck survives bi-weekly washing without pilling.
- Mirth’s statement cardigan justifies its higher price through craftsmanship and endless compliments.
Stock one-or several-of these editor-certified pieces and you’re set for the season.
