50 Vintage Sweaters

In the cold winter months, there’s nothing like getting cozy and a perfect way to do that is with a vintage sweater. Built to last, vintage sweaters are warm and well made and can come in some funky designs which let you express your unique personal style. Join us as we take a look at the different types of vintage sweaters, what to avoid, how to wear your sweater, and our top picks for the best vintage sweaters available for purchase online.

Different Sweater Styles

Crew Neck: A crew neck is a pullover sweater with a rounded, close-fitting neck, named after the fisherman who first wore it. They are now the most often used sweater style. It can be worn with a collared shirt underneath, however, there is insufficient place for a tie.
V-Neck: The v-neck is similar to a crew neck, except that the neckline is cut into a v shape. This sweater looks best with a collared shirt and a tie or an ascot because of the cut, making it ideal for the office.
Turtleneck: This sweater, also known as a roll neck, mock neck, or polo neck sweater, covers part or all of the neck. The tallest is a turtleneck, followed by a roll neck, and finally a shorter mock neck. They can be worn on their own with a pair of chinos or blue jeans, or under a jacket to the workplace on a casual Friday.
Shawl collar: Military or “infantry” sweaters provided to American GIs are the forerunners of today’s shawl collar sweaters. It has a v-neck with a rolled neck that may be crossed or uncrossed; some variants have 1-3 buttons or toggles that can be practical or decorative.
Cardigan: A cardigan is similar to a shirt or a jacket in that it opens down the front and is closed with buttons or toggles. Single-breasted variants are the most prevalent, but double-breasted ones that appear like a cross between a peacoat and a cardigan are now available at select outlets. Save zippered cardigan sweaters for sportswear once again.
Half-zip: The high collar on this modern style can be opened and closed with a small zipper, however it is usually left open. It’s a new trend, and you can probably imagine how we feel about zippers.
Tennis: Tennis sweaters have a deep v-neck with a brilliantly colored trim around the neckline, maybe the hem and cuffs, and are as traditional as they get. They used to be virtually entirely cable-knit in white or cream, but now they come in a variety of colors and finishes.
Commando or “Wooly Pully”: Like its military precursor, this close-fitting crewneck sweater has reinforced shoulder epaulets and elbow patches.

How to Style Vintage Sweaters

Vintage sweaters can be styled in a variety of ways, here are some tips to get started:

Team with classic denim
Make a statement with other vintage items
Team with statement vintage accessories
Pair an open cardigan or floral swear with a dress
Wear your sweater with multiple layers

How to Buy Vintage Sweaters

When picking a vintage sweater online there are certain criteria that you can follow to make sure you pick the perfect piece:

The piece should be made entirely of natural materials or a blend of natural and synthetic materials
Should have a proper fit across the shoulders and cuffs
Feature buttons or toggles as closures instead of zippers that can snag.
Shouldn’t have excessive pilling or decoloration
Should be purchased from a pet-free/smoke-free location