For fashion lovers, the start of winter is marked not by the first snowfall or below-freezing temperatures, but by the slow accumulation of new sweaters. From timeless oversized knits to trending items like sweater-vests, there’s always a new style, color, or silhouette to invest in each year. 

As a self-proclaimed sweater connoisseur, I have my eye on the below best sweaters for women 2021: cardigans, sweater-vests, polo sweaters, half-zips, going-out sweaters, and classic knits. While my closet is already brimming with too many cozy sweaters to count, I plan to make space for at least two to three of these new looks this season. 

Ahead, shop the best sweaters for women for 2021 and beyond.

While cardigans have been trending hard for a few years now, the timeless look is still going strong into 2021. From matching cardigan sets to fitted polo-style button downs, there are more than a few new looks to sport this winter. 

Sweater-vests are currently experiencing a minor renaissance, thanks in part to fashion influencers like Pernille Teisbaek, Emma Leger, Camille Charriere, and countless others. Brands from Mango to Ganni have already jumped on the “grandma” trend. 

Polo and half-zip sweaters have been trending hard since late last year, and the look shows no signs of slowing down. This traditional style look has been reimagined for the fashion set. You can now find a polo or half-zip sweater in every color, print, and price point imaginable. 

Thanks in part to Khaite’s trending Maddy sweater, 2020 has seen a slew of figure-flattering going-out sweaters from the likes of Jacquemus, Reformation, & Other Stories, and more. While going out looks a little different this year, we expect open-back sweaters, cropped cardigans, and the like to trend into 2021 and beyond. 

You can never have too many cozy, oversize sweaters. From turtleneck sweaters to classic cable knits, these pieces could be considered cold-weather essentials that you’ll wear for years to come. 

Next, four trending hat styles we expect everyone to wear this winter.