Editor Favorites: The Best Sustainable Sweaters In 2025
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We live in cozy sweaters during the colder months — these are our favorite brands for sweaters and cardigans that are sustainable, made from natural and eco-friendly materials, and size-inclusive.
Who doesn’t love snuggling up in a cozy sweater on a chilly day? It’s honestly one of my favorite feelings! Living in the beautiful mountains of Colorado, I’ve come to realize that a solid collection of sweaters isn’t just a luxury — it’s a must-have. With the winter months lasting about five months of the year, our sweaters take quite the beating. That’s why I opt for high-quality pieces that are built to last. It saves me from buying new ones every season and means I can really enjoy what I have.
When temperatures drop, I love the warmth of cashmere and the comfort of wool. Cashmere is soft and provides great insulation, while wool is breathable and moisture-wicking. For year-round comfort, organic cotton is my go-to. The list below of sweaters is a blend of all my beloved eco-conscious fabrics. I’ve tried and tested each of the sweaters below to share my honest thoughts on how they fit, feel, and perform.
Why shop for sustainable sweaters?
Shopping for sustainable sweaters means investing in clothing that’s better for both you and the planet. Sustainable sweaters are made from natural, eco-friendly materials like organic cotton, wool, or recycled fibers, which help reduce environmental impact by avoiding harmful chemicals and conserving resources. These sweaters not only feel softer and more breathable but also tend to be more durable, so you can enjoy them for years to come without worrying about wear and tear (which is often a problem when shopping fast fashion clothing items). By opting for sustainable options, you’re supporting ethical production practices, reducing waste, and promoting a healthier planet.
It’s also important to consider size inclusivity when selecting a sustainable sweater brand. Inclusive sizing ensures that everyone, regardless of body shape or size, has access to clothing that fits well and feels great. A truly sustainable brand values diversity and designs for real people, and not just a limited range of sizes. For fall and winter this year, we’re wearing sustainable sweaters from inclusive brands that we love. These companies put people over profit while maintaining ethical, eco-conscious, and fair trade production practices. So cozy up!
Our criteria:
Our team has lived in sustainable sweaters through cool California nights and harsh New York winters. After wearing, researching, and corresponding with sustainable fashion brands for years, we’ve selected our favorite brands for sustainable sweaters and cardigans that are made of natural and eco-friendly materials and size-inclusive, too. We regularly update this list with new favorites that meet the following criteria.
- SUSTAINABLE | From sourcing materials, to thoughtful production and labor practices, to low-waste manufacturing, these brands are all sustainable and have the credentials and certifications to back it up.
- NATURAL/ECO-FRIENDLY | The materials used in these sweaters are all natural and/or eco-friendly and engineered to keep you warm and comfortable.
- SIZE INCLUSIVE | We’ve included brands that offer a large range of sizes so there’s something here for everyone.
For full fall fashion, pair them with some ethical denim, and sustainable purses and boots. 👢
Table of contents:
Our overall favorite: Sézane, $120 – $195
Best professional sweaters for work: Everlane, $98 – $198
Best cashmere sweaters: NADAAM, $78 – $475
Best organic cotton sweaters & cardigans: Pact, $58 – $88
Most affordable sweaters: Quince, $40 – $150
Best polo sweaters: Outerknown, $118 – $398
Best sexy sweaters with edge: Reformation, $88 – $398
Best for casual sweatshirts: MATE the Label, $158 – $265
Best fleece & wool sweaters: Patagonia, $80 – $250
Best alpaca wool sweaters: Cuyana, $228 – $328
Best men’s & women’s classic sweaters: Buck Mason, $148 – $298
What fabrics should you look for in sustainable sweaters?
What are the relevant certifications?
1. Sézane
Best For | Our overall favorite
Size Range | Women’s XXS – XXXL, men’s XS – XXXL
Price Range | $120 – $195
Based in Paris, Sézane is designed to last. With more than two-thirds of its pieces produced in Europe, and the rest crafted by long-standing partner ateliers in India, Portugal, and more, Sézane prioritizes raw materials and sustainable practices. Its super-soft Lauren Jumper features a high collar and a stunning green shade for a cozy, lived-in look.
Sézane’s sweaters are not only stunning, they’re ethically and sustainably made. Each is designed to be an heirloom-quality closet staple. This Elise Cardigan ($160, XS), made from RWS-certified kid mohair and merino wool, is one of the softest and most delicate sweaters I’ve ever touched. I adore the sweet peplum tie at the waist that gives it an added feminine shape. I also love the way this sweater elevates a simple pair of jeans or as a layer over slip dresses.
2. Everlane
Best For | Professional sweaters for work
Size Range | Women’s XXS – XXXL, men’s XS – XXL
Price Range | $98 – $198
Everlane carries our favorite work styles so you can look put together and feel your best, in and out of the office! Whether you’re into crewnecks, cardigans, v-necks, or turtlenecks, Everlane’s extensive sweater collection has you covered. Made from renewable and clean materials (with animal welfare in mind), each product page provides you with details on each sweater’s journey from source to end. Our favorite piece is the Cocoon Crew made from RAS-certified alpaca fiber and RWS-certified wool.
Like Everlane’s clothing, their sweaters are made to be an effortless, elevated go-to for everyday wear. I opted to try their organic cotton Full Zip Sweater ($138, XS). I’m not typically a zip-up sweater girl, but I was excited to add this more sophisticated silhouette to my rotation. It’s one of those styles I’ll throw on for going to the grocery store or the park on a crisp day. As another go-to style, I adore this Polo in Ultra Soft Merino ($138, S). It’s made from 100% RWS-certified merino wool and is, in fact, ultra soft. I’ll be wearing this piece all fall and winter.
3. NAADAM
Best For | Cashmere sweaters
Size Range | Women’s XXS – 5X, men’s XXS – XXL
Price Range | $78 – $475
When it comes to sustainable clothing, we have to take into account a brand’s treatment of people, animals, and the planet. And NAADAM promises the “world’s fairest cashmere.” Sourced from Mongolia’s Gobi Desert, the company works directly with herders and provides hand-combing and veterinary care to its animals. This ensures their care and that you get the softest, most sustainable fabric — like its popular Original Cashmere Sweater, available in nine core colors and limited edition shades too. Be sure to read our review of these cozy and effortless cashmere picks!
NAADAM’s sweaters are hands-down the softest, most well-constructed sweaters I’ve ever had the opportunity to feel. When looking to invest in a heirloom-quality, cruelty-free, organic cashmere sweater—that’s made directly from the source, NAADAM is your go-to. I opted for two styles that felt timeless and effortless: the Cashmino Cable Turtleneck ($250, XS) and the Ultra Luxe Cashmere Polo ($475, XS). Taking each of these sweaters out of the bag was an experience. I noticed the difference in weight right away. The turtleneck is like a cloud in its softness and has the classic light-weight cashmere feel.
In comparison, the polo is incredibly heavy and thick. Both sweaters have their own personality and presence. NAADAM’s sweaters are made from shorter cashmere fibers, which keep them from pilling. I adore them and will be keeping them in the bags they arrived in, in a special drawer. They won’t be an everyday go-to, but rather a special occasion grab, or on days when it’s extremely cold in the winter.
4. Pact
Best For | Organic cotton sweaters & cardigans
Size Range | Women’s XS – 3XL, men’s S – XL
Price Range | $58 – $88
For airy and breathable sweaters and cardigans, check out Pact. Made with GOTS-certified organic cotton that’s free of pilling and safe for the skin, each Pact piece is made to be better for us and even better for the planet. In addition to no harmful chemicals, Pact’s organic cotton clothing uses 81% less water than conventional cotton and is crafted in their Fair Trade factories. (P.S. It’s affordable too!) Check out the 4.6-star rated Classic Fine Knit Relaxed Sweater as a cute and comfy addition to your closet.
I adore Pact for its effortless, everyday styles, designed to be both comfortable and sophisticated. Along with their organic cotton essentials, you can count on them to be well-made and long-lasting. I opted for the Classic Fine Knit Relaxed Sweater ($98, XS). It’s incredibly soft and lightweight — the perfect throw-on and go essential. While taking it out of the package, I immediately noticed the textured cotton fabric; it has an unexpected, textured feel that sets it apart from a standard cotton pullover.
5. Quince
Best For | Affordable sweaters
Size Range | Women’s XS – XL, men’s XS – XXL
Price Range | $40 – $150
Quince is all about impeccable quality clothing at a lower price. The brand makes premium clothing in classic designs while adhering to its values of sustainability, ethical manufacturing, and affordability through its factory-direct model. The proof is in their prices with the Organic Cotton Fisherman Sweater running you about $50 while the Lightweight Cotton Cashmere Crew is just under $30. Fashion-forward, budget-friendly, and beautiful.
What I adore about Quince is that they’ve created the opportunity to buy high-quality clothing, made to last from earth-conscious materials, at a fraction of the cost. I was amazed when I took the 100% Organic Cropped Cotton Polo Sweater ($49.90, XS) and the Australian Merino Wool Cropped Mock-Neck Sweater ($69.90, XS) out of their boxes. The quality is incredible for the cost. The polo has a gorgeous heavy-weight feel, but the cropped style is my absolute favorite! It’s one I’ll be wearing often throughout fall, winter, and spring. At the same time, the cropped mock neck sweater is incredibly soft and lightweight. The Merino Wool feel gives it a luxurious feeling that I know I’ll also be able to wear often.
6. Outerknown
Best For | Polo sweaters
Size Range | Women’s XXS – XXL, men’s XS – XXXL
Price Range | $118 – $398
Founded by World Champion surfer Kelly Slater and designer John Moore, Outerknown is on a mission to create sustainable clothing that lasts. And that includes the Roma Sweater. Made from 70% organic cotton and 30% recycled cashmere, this sweater features a plush, relaxed fit and ribbed detailing for an ultra-cozy vibe. Offset it with some fitted jeans or keep it casual with a pair of loose pants.
Outerknown is one of those brands I’ve always looked to for lifestyle inspiration — like maybe I’ll be a cool surfer girl one day. I adore their high-quality, everyday go-tos for any adventure. I opted to try the Roma Sweater ($228, XS). I’m so excited to have this sweater as part of my staple sweater rotation! It’s more lightweight than I thought it would be, which I ended up really loving. It’s one I’ll be able to wear often. I adore the stitching details at the neck and wrists, and as a bonus, it’s made sustainably with 5-gauge Italian organic cotton and recycled cashmere yarn. One thing to note: I wish it were a bit more cropped to suit my personal style, as the stitching at the bottom makes it difficult to tuck in.
7. Reformation
Best For | Sexy sweaters with edge
Size Range | Women’s XS – 3X
Price Range | $88 – $398
Reformation is often touted as a leader in the sustainable fashion industry. Ethically made in China and the USA, the team seamlessly transforms responsibly sourced materials like Tencel, linen, and recycled cotton into chic styles. And the brand’s eco-friendly methods are shared directly with consumers, who can view how much water and carbon dioxide were saved in the production of their pieces. The Nalini Cotton Sweater Tank is equal parts sexy, snug and perfect for layering.
I’ve adored turning to Reformation for years for high-quality and edgy staples that always end up being my very favorite pieces. However, surprisingly, I haven’t tried their sweaters. I was excited to try two of their more classic wool cardigans: the Hannah Crew Cardigan ($178, XS) and the Meadow Regenerative Merino Cardigan ($178, S). I wanted a couple of staple cardigans that I could wear easily and daily for effortless layering. Both of these are entirely different in both fit and feel. Even though they’re both made from 100% traceable NATIVA™️ wool sourced from a transitional regenerative farm. The Merino Cardigan is incredibly lightweight and soft. It almost feels like silk. Whereas the Hannah Crew is more of a classic, thick wool feel.
8. MATE the Label
Best For | Casual sweatshirts
Size Range | Women’s XS – 3X
Price Range | $158 – $265
MATE the Label creates essentials using non-toxic, natural, and organic materials, with a mission to keep products clean from seed to skin. Committed to sustainability, the brand emphasizes ethical production, plastic-free packaging, and circular fashion, all while being women-centered and holding certifications like Climate Neutral and GOTS. As for their sweaters, our editor loves how well they hold up after multiple washes! If you’re ready to invest, MATE’s Organic Fleece Half-Zip Sweatshirt won’t disappoint.
For years, MATE has been my go-to for organic basics. I adore their muted earth tones and workout wear, free from harmful chemicals. Alongside, you can always count on them for the coziest matching sets. I opted to try the one and only Organic Fleece Half-Zip Sweatshirt ($158, XS). It’s one of those pieces I’m constantly grabbing for to layer over my yoga clothes or as an easy throw on with jeans for a grocery store run. One thing to note: it has a more oversized fit, and I would love it if it were a more cropped and even slightly tighter fit.
9. Patagonia
Best For | Fleece & wool sweaters
Size Range | Women’s XS – XL
Price Range | $80 – $250
Patagonia focuses on creating long-lasting clothing that supports being in nature while also protecting it. Their sweaters and fleece—like the famous Synchilla® and their tried and true Better Sweater® — are perfect for staying warm on chilly days, whether you’re out on the trail or just running errands. What makes them stand out is Patagonia’s focus on sustainability: many pieces are made with recycled materials, are Fair Trade Certified, and feature bluesign-approved fabrics.
As someone who’s a casual hiker and camper, I don’t often invest in brands like Patagonia. But living in Colorado, the brand makes itself known, and I’m always impressed when I see the quality. I opted to try their Women’s Recycled Wool-Blend Sweater Jacket ($169, XS), which is more my style than wearing a fleece. I’m utterly obsessed with this sweater! It’s heavy-weight wool feels sturdy yet so cozy—it completely wraps you in its embrace. I love the classic fit and plan to wear this constantly as a layering piece over dresses, skirts, and jeans, making it a go-to essential this fall and winter.
10. Cuyana
Best For | Alpaca wool sweaters
Size Range | Women’s XS – XL
Price Range | $228 – $328
Cuyana believes in “fewer, better.” This means the company responsibly produces its clothes, maximizes their wear through warranties and repair, and facilitates donating and reselling the pieces once you’ve loved them long enough. Cuyana intentionally selects factories that are near the source, so it can craft clothing with Pima cotton from Peru and silk from China. The Single Origin Cashmere Wrap Sweater features traceable and sustainable Italian cashmere, which is sewn together in a sustainable Italian mill.
Cuyana is a brand you can count on for its sophisticated, high-quality, minimalist essentials. They’re known for their color blocking and expertly crafted staples. I opted to try their Single Origin Cashmere Cropped Sweater ($298, XS). Made from 100% traceable, sustainable Italian cashmere, it’s incredibly soft and feather-light, yet still extremely cozy. I adore the fit of this sweater! It features a slightly cropped, high-low hemline that I can wear with jeans or trousers and immediately feel not only more elevated but also effortlessly put together.
11. Buck Mason
Best For | Men’s & women’s classic sweaters
Size Range | Women’s XS – XXL, men’s XS – XXL
Price Range | $148 – $298
For modern American classics rooted in timelessness, quality, and California spirit, check out Buck Mason. Founded in 2013 in Venice, California, the brand combines old-school craftsmanship with modern technology to produce durable, well-designed wardrobe essentials, while committing to fair working conditions and equitable pay.
I adore Buck Mason for their all-American classic styles. I couldn’t wait to try the Soft Spun Cotton Collared Cardigan ($238, S) as a spring and summer layering piece. This buttery-soft cotton sweater has a relaxed, cropped fit. It’s ideal for chilly outdoor lake concerts. You can also snuggle up wearing it by the fire with a warm cup of tea. This sweater is quite thick, yet surprisingly lightweight. The quality is no doubt heirloom. You can also dress it up or dress it down. My go-to look will be wearing it with jeans, but I also love wearing it over yoga clothes.
What fabrics should you look for in sustainable sweaters?
When shopping for sustainable sweaters, look for fabrics that are both eco-friendly and responsibly made, as well as designed to last. Here are some top options to consider:
- Organic Cotton – Grown without the use of harmful pesticides or synthetic fertilizers, organic cotton is soft, breathable, and widely available at a range of price points, making it an accessible choice for everyday wear.
- Recycled Wool – Made from post-consumer or post-industrial wool, this option reduces waste and requires far less water and energy than producing virgin wool, though it can be slightly pricier due to its processing.
- Organic or Responsible Wool – Look for certifications like RWS (Responsible Wool Standard) to ensure the sheep are treated ethically and the land is sustainably managed; these sweaters are warm, durable, and mid- to high-range in cost.
- Cashmere – A luxury fiber known for its softness and warmth. For sustainability, look for cashmere that is either recycled or responsibly sourced, with clear traceability and ethical grazing practices. This option may have a higher cost, but it is long-lasting if properly maintained.
- Hemp – Naturally resistant to pests and requiring minimal water, hemp is a highly sustainable fiber that creates strong, breathable fabrics. It’s often blended with cotton or wool and can be a bit more expensive due to limited production.
- Tencel (Lyocell) – Produced from sustainably sourced wood pulp in a closed-loop process, Tencel is silky, lightweight, and often blended into sweaters for softness and drape, with moderate to higher price points.
- Recycled Polyester – Typically made from plastic bottles or textile waste, it gives new life to existing materials and is often blended with natural fibers for durability. It’s widely available and affordable but less breathable than natural fibers.
What are the relevant certifications?
When choosing sustainable sweaters, not only does the fabric matter, but also the certifications. These important markers give a look into where and how the fabric was manufactured, including environmental impact, animal welfare, chemical safety, and ethical labor practices. These certifications ensure that the natural fabrics used in clothing production can be traced. Below is a snapshot of the top certifications for each sustainable fabric.
Organic Cotton
- GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard) – Ensures the cotton is organically grown, processed sustainably, and that workers are treated fairly.
- OEKO-TEX Standard 100 – Tests for harmful chemicals in textiles, ensuring consumer safety.
- Fair Trade Certified – Guarantees fair wages and ethical labor conditions.
Recycled Wool
- GRS (Global Recycled Standard) – Confirms the recycled fabrics, sustainable practices, and safe working conditions across the supply chain.
- RCS (Recycled Claim Standard) – Focuses on traceability and percentage of recycled content in the final product.
Organic or Responsible Wool
- RWS (Responsible Wool Standard) – Ensures animal welfare, sustainable grazing, and land management.
- ZQ Merino – A certification specifically for merino wool emphasizing ethical animal treatment and environmental care.
Cashmere
- SFA (Sustainable Fibre Alliance) – Promotes animal welfare, herder livelihoods, and land preservation in cashmere production.
- The Good Cashmere Standard – Ensures animal welfare, environmental protection, and economic sustainability for farmers.
- Fair Trade Certified – Supports fair wages and ethical labor conditions in the cashmere supply chain.
Hemp
- USDA Organic – Verifies that hemp is grown without synthetic pesticides or fertilizers.
- GOTS – Often applies if hemp is blended with cotton or other natural fibers in processing.
Tencel (Lyocell)
- EU Ecolabel – Ensures the entire life cycle of the fiber meets strict environmental standards.
- FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) – Confirms that the wood pulp comes from responsibly managed forests.
Recycled Polyester
- bluesign® – Focuses on chemical safety and sustainable manufacturing practices.
- GRS (Global Recycled Standard) – Confirms recycled materials and environmentally responsible production.
Courtney Jay Higgins is a Contributing Editor at The Good Trade. She has a BA in Visual Communications from The Fashion Institute of Design & Merchandising and is the founder of Coincide, a subscription-based yoga platform focusing on inclusive, sustainable yoga rooted in ancient Eastern practices and spirituality. Her 10+ years of experience in yoga include a 200-hr YTT certification in a Hatha-based yoga practice and a certification in prenatal yoga. She has been featured in Shoutout Colorado, Voyage Denver, and Cora’s Blood & Milk. Since 2017, she has been reviewing sustainable fashion, natural makeup, organic wellness, and safe pregnancy products for The Good Trade’s readers.
