Fall is rapidly approaching, and I couldn't be more excited. While we're nearing crisp fall weather and cozy layers, we're not there just yet, so to hold me over until I can break out all of my cashmere, leather, and layers, I'm leaning into lightweight knitwear. I love a light cotton sweater or loose-weave knit to kick off the fall season—they give you that cozy feeling while still allowing airflow.
The breathability factor is key when searching for a beginning-of-fall knit, so opting for an open-weave material that doesn't trap heat or a cardigan I can leave open is my strategy. A knit dress or tank top is another great way to start incorporating the texture into your wardrobe before the weather fully permits. I love investing in a lightweight knit at the beginning of the season to start wearing immediately, then layer over a long-sleeved T-shirt once the temperatures start to drop. This is currently the number one item on my fall shopping list, so I've saved all my favorite options to strategize my first purchase of the season. Keep scrolling for the best lightweight fall sweaters, in my humble opinion.
Everlane
The Organic Cotton Crew Sweater
Everlane may have achieved the perfect cotton crew-neck.
Everlane
The Organic Cotton Crew Sweater
It also comes in camel.
Loewe
Embroidered Striped Mohair-Blend Sweater
A work of art.
Solid
Striped
Fleur Cardigan
It's giving quiet luxury.
DISSH
Goldie Khaki Marle Scoop Midi Dress
Picture this dress with knee-high boots.
Zara
Open Knit Sweater
This one may be my first fall '23 purchase.
Reformation
Joanne Cotton Cardigan
Nothing says fall like a cute cardigan.
J.Crew
Cashmere Shrunken Sweater Vest
Just picture this layered over a turtleneck come November.
Zara
Striped Open Knit Sweater
You can tell this one allows airflow.
Song of Style
Sandra Top
So chic.
Good American
Cozy Rib Crop Cardigan
Pair with high-waisted pants and your fall outfit is set.
Good American
Cozy Rib Crop Cardigan
Also comes in black.
The Elder Statesman
Nimbus Whipstitched Open-Knit Cashmere Polo Sweater
Slightly sheer and 100% breathable.
Alex Mill
Striped Button-Embellished Cotton Sweater
I'm a sucker for a good striped sweater.
Helsa
Aren Sweater
Helsa's fall collection is stunning, and this sweater is definitely a standout.
Staud
Cargo Striped Ribbed-Knit Cardigan
Style this with jeans for the perfect fall outfit.
L'Academie
Cadee Cable Knit Dress
There's something so elevated about a cable-knit weave.
Frankies Bikinis
Aimee Cable Cloud Knit Hoodie
Cloud knit indeed.
J.Crew
Cotton V-Neck Cardigan Sweater
If you're into the quiet-luxury aesthetic, may I introduce this J.Crew cardigan?