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Say goodbye to nights on the boardwalk, summer sunsets, and effortless tank tops, and hello to crisp evenings, chic jackets, and most of all, cozy sweaters! While we’ll miss the warmer days, autumn invites us into cozier moments and a quieter headspace. Plus, the change in seasons gives us a chance to revamp and refine our wardrobes; we’re always looking for ways to be more mindful and intentional with our garments—blending form, function, and fair trade.

For fall and winter this year, we’re wearing sustainable sweaters from brands we love. These companies put people over profit while maintaining ethical, eco-conscious, and fair trade production practices. So cozy up!

For full fall fashion, pair them with some sustainable purses & boots. 👢


Best Overall | Most Affordable | Best Cardigans


1. NAADAM

Natural materials
Recycled materials
Size inclusive

Best For | Cashmere sweaters
Size Range
 | XXS–3X
Price Range | $75–$375

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! 


2. Everlane

GOTS certified
Natural materials
OEKO-TEX® certified
Recycled materials
Size inclusive

Best For | Sweaters for work
Size Range
 | XXS–XXXL
Price Range | $78–$248

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), on each product page you can read in detail how each sweater is made, from source to end. Our favorite piece is the Ultrafine Ribbed Crew made from 100% RWS-certified merino wool. 


3. Outerknown

Fair trade
Natural materials
Recycled materials

Best For | Polo sweaters
Size Range
 | XS–XL; up to US 16  
Price Range | $168–$388

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 Simone Polo Sweater. Made from 100% Geelong wool (rivaling cashmere for its softness and warmth), this sweater features a relaxed v neck collar and ribbed detailing for an ultra-cozy vibe. Offset it with some fitted jeans or keep it casual with a pair of loose pants.


4. Reformation

American made
Climate neutral
Natural materials
Recycled materials
Size inclusive
Woman owned

Best For | Chic sweaters & cardigans
Size Range
 | XS–3X 
Price Range | $68–$378

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 was saved in the production of their pieces. The Farrah Cashmere Turtleneck Tank is equal parts sexy and snug and perfect for layering.


5. Pact

Budget friendly
Fair trade
GOTS certified
Natural materials

Best For | Organic cotton sweaters & cardigans
Size Range
 | XS–2X  
Price Range | $88–$134

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 4.7 star rated Fine Knit Wrap Sweater as a cute and comfy addition to your closet. 


6. Sézane

B corp
FSC
GOTS certified
Natural materials
OEKO-TEX® certified
Recycled materials
Size inclusive

Best For | Colorful & patterned knitwear
Size Range
 | XXS–XXXL 
Price Range | $120–$210

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 Anaelle Cardigan features a crochet finish and scalloped edges for an elegant and romantic look.


7. Quince

Budget friendly
GOTS certified
Natural materials
OEKO-TEX® certified

Best For | Affordable sweaters
Size Range
 | XS–XL 
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 their values of sustainability, ethical manufacturing and affordability through their 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.


8. Shaina Mote

GOTS certified
Natural materials
Recycled materials
Woman owned

Best For | Knitwear for all seasons
Size Range
 | XS–XXL  
Price Range | $231–$567

Shaina Mote approaches their sustainable business model by keeping teams small and production local. Their knitwear is made in a local woman-owned Peruvian workshop that works directly with local artisans. All craftspeople are paid fair wages in advance and the brand maintains strong relationships with their partners while honoring the heritage traditions of knitwear production in Peru. Stay warm during the cool weather with the Crop Chunky Crewneck sweater. 


9. Cuyana

FSC
GOTS certified
Natural materials
OEKO-TEX® certified
Recycled materials
Woman owned

Best For | Alpaca wool sweaters
Size Range
 | XS–XL; up to US 14 
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 oversized Turtleneck Sweater features ethically sourced Peruvian Alpaca wool which is sewn together in a sustainable Italian mill.


10. Kotn

B corp
Budget friendly
GOTS certified
Natural materials
OEKO-TEX® certified
Plastic/Pfas free

Best For | Casual sweaters
Size Range
 | XS–XL 
Price Range | $58–$225

Ethically made in Portugal and Egypt, Kotn’s knitwear is made for everyday wear. This certified B Corp commits to building a lasting business model through their supply chain. From the sustainable cultivation of raw materials in Nile Delta, Egypt all the way to the final construction of each product, Kotn remains attentive through each stage of the process while supporting Nile Delta’s local community needs. For a refined and relaxed knit combo, the Asilah Cropped Sweater is one to add to the list. 


Featured image from Quince