The 10 Best Sweater Dresses of 2023, According to a Stylist

Welcome to The Essentials, our weekly series highlighting a must-have classic, key to building a timeless, pulled-together closet.

For now, your thin and airy summer dresses must be packed up and stored away until next year—but let's look on the bright side. It's time to get excited about the sweater dress, your favorite fall and winter staple. "The great thing about sweater dresses is their versatility and the array of silhouettes, colors, and fits they come in," says Lauren Nelson, Styling Supervisor at Stitch Fix. "This variety ensures there’s a style for everyone and for every occasion." From the trusty relaxed, oversized fits to the wrap silhouettes and ribbed knits that skim your shape, there's absolutely a sweater dress out there that suits your style.

And, depending on how you style the cold-weather favorite, every sweater dress has go-anywhere potential. With heavier fabrics and longer hemlines, a knit dress works well with any of your boots or sneakers. Or, for lighter-weight cardigan styles, try sporting a pair of socks with your favorite strappy sandal. No matter your taste, you're sure to discover a favorite in our edit of the best sweater dresses to shop now.

What to Look For in a Sweater Dress

"When it comes to fit, I often advise clients to choose a sweater dress that is slightly oversized," describes Nelson. "This gives you the option to add a belt at the waist. And when you add a belt, you maintain the comfort factor that traditional sweaters offer while giving your look a figure-flattering shape."

"As for materials, in the winter months, I suggest opting for cozy wool styles," says the stylist. "If choosing a form-fitting option, look for a sweater dress with a bit of stretch and a touch of elastane in its fabric."

• Winter 2023 Trends

As you likely already do when shopping for clothing of all kinds, you'll want to keep the leading seasonal trends in mind. "One winter 2023 trend we’re predicting is the rise of what Stitch Fix is calling the Intentional Wardrobe, marking a shift towards high-quality, versatile, and trend-proof clothing," offers Nelson. "Now, and as we head into 2023, choose a sweater dress that mirrors your personal style and makes you feel your best self."

You'll want to factor in winter 2023's color trends into your sweater dress shopping, too. "Spoiler alert: Stitch Fix predicts Clementine as the color of 2023. Reach for sweater dresses in that citrus hue as we head into the new year. No matter what, though," adds Nelson, "I always tell my clients to select the sweater dress that they feel most confident in because that’s what truly makes a look shine."

The Best Sweater Dresses

Calvin Klein Tortise Dress

"For my clients in 2023, I suggest investing in a well-made sweater dress that's a staple and will stand the test of time—something like this belted Calvin Klein style in a rich brown is an ideal option," says the Stitch Fix stylist. "Dress it down with classic white sneakers for a day of running errands. Or elevate the knit dress for evenings by styling it with a pair of knee-high leather boots and tights to keep you warm yet looking chic!"

Hill House Home The Sylvie Sweater Dress

"Monochromatic layering is a chic and classic way to style a sweater dress that will definitely turn heads," Nelson offers. She advises you to choose a neutral hue when deciding your one-in-done hue, as there'll be less of a risk of overwhelming the eye in muted tones. "It is helpful to opt for a more neutral shade, such as cream. Then, including different fabric textures with a cream color palette will help add dimension to your outfit." Try styling Hill House Home's cute sweater dress with ivory suede booties, for instance.

Self-Portrait Crystal-Embellished Mini Dress

"One of my favorite styling combos is a mod mini sweater dress with a pair of over-the-knee boots," says Nelson. "This makes for a very chic, timeless look." And in the case of Self-Portrait's ruby red and crystal-embellished sweater dress, why not lean into the '60s influence and slip into a pair of tall white boots for a groovy go-go vibe? If that combo feels a bit too retro for your personal preference, opt for chunky loafers instead for more of a trend-informed take on preppy style.

1. STATE Cable Knit Sweater Dress

“If you prefer a slightly longer sweater dress, you can also reach for a midi length—like this cable knit version from 1. STATE,” Nelson describes, reiterating her earlier point of how important it is to find a style that works best for you and your silhouette. Notice, too, how this sweater dress is a longline design that still boasts two flirty side slits to show off just a flash of leg. “Finish the outfit with an oversized houndstooth blazer and loafers for a look that’s perfectly preppy,” advises the stylist.

Everlane The Cozy Stretch Turtleneck Dress

Beautifully knit from a soft blend of responsibly sourced wool, yak, recycled nylon, and a touch of stretchy spandex, Everlane's turtleneck sweater dress is a minimalist's dream. It features ultra-clean lines and ribbed detailing for total effortlessness. As for styling this neutral number, "layering is always a good go-to option," details Nelson. "For a comfy and cozy look, try layering with a denim jacket or a long cardigan for a simple but put-together outfit for your busy life. Alternately, for a night on the town, you can layer with a wool blazer or leather jacket."

Reformation Cianna Strapless Sweater Dress

You may have never thought you needed a strapless sweater dress (Aren't they intended to be thermal, cold-weather options?) until you laid eyes on this Reformation creation. The Cianna knit dress is polished with charm in its cherry red and eggplant floral print, and while it won't be as toasty as a turtleneck or cardigan design, it's a perfect after-hours look. Style yours with ballet flats and a leather blazer for an after-work cocktail hour or with Mary Jane pumps and a bolero shrug for date night.

Joseph Wool-blend sweater dress

"For those who prefer a more relaxed sweater dress fit, try a slouchier style in an eye-catching goldenrod hue," advises the stylist. This wool-blend collared number from Joseph achieves that inherently relaxed and insouciant feel courtesy of its free-flowing silhouette. And yet, it remains an intentionally trend-informed choice due to its bright marigold hue, a break-away hue on Fall/Winter 2022's runways. "Finish the look with suede boots and add a faux fur-lined coat for an ensemble filled with texture," advises Nelson.

Whistles Stripe Relaxed-Fit Knitted Mini Dress

"Don't forget about accessories when styling your sweater dress," implores the Stitch Fix expert stylist. "Scarves are a great option that can turn a basic sweater dress look into a showstopper. It can also add a pop of color and an opportunity to play with different textures," she adds, suggesting you tie on a cashmere scarf for a luxe knit-on-knit look with this Whistle's Breton striped mini dress. "Bonus: A scarf added to your sweater dress outfit will also keep you warm."

A.L.C. Lance Ribbed Polo Collar Dress

A.L.C. is masterful when it comes to modern classics, and this cobalt blue sweater collared dress is no exception. The half-button neckline and side slits along the asymmetrical hem reveal flashes of skin without overdoing it, making it a safe addition to your wear-to-the-office clothing rotation. And if you're someone who's big on textures, take note of its ribbed design. Have some tactile fun when styling this knit dress and pile on a lustrous leather jacket and mules.

Banana Republic Netta Ribbed Wrap Dress

The wrap dress never fails, especially when crafted in plushy and luxe knit iterations. Banana Republic's ribbed knit dress is our top pick with its timeless v-neck silhouette and under-bust belt. Plus, it's sustainably made to boot! This emerald green stunner is made with LENZING™ ECOVERO, a lightweight and eco-responsible viscose fiber that's made from renewable wood and is produced with methods that reduce water impact by up to 50 percent compared to industry standard viscose. Overall, this is a win-win find.

Meet the Expert

As Stitch Fix Styling Supervisor, Lauren Nelson brings her enthusiasm for individual style for everyBODY. She is fashion obsessed and has over 20+ years of industry experience in the role. Since joining the organization in December 2014, Lauren has supported and managed a multi-level, dynamic team of talented individuals across the Southwest Region. She also delivers personalized style takeaways to readers in online editorial coverage. 

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