The 21 Best Sweatshirts of 2024 for Lounging in Style
Dotdash Meredith and Yahoo Inc. may earn commission or revenue on some items through the links below.
Be cozy and chic with these good-looking crewnecks, hoodies, and pullovers.
InStyle / Reformation / Victoria's Secret
Sweatshirts are more versatile than you might think, and can look just as stylish as they feel cozy — it’s just a question of what you’re going for. There’s so much variety among sweatshirts — from fitted to oversized designs and hoodies to crewnecks — that we figured you could use a little help navigating what’s on offer. We did some extensive research and spoke to several style experts to help you find the best of the sweatshirt world, whether you’re after a matching sweatsuit, a lightweight layer, or a fuzzy hoodie to bundle up in.
Our faves come in a whole lot of color options, with inclusive sizing, different lengths available, and top-notch sustainability credentials. These are the sweatshirts you’ll be layering all fall, winter, and beyond.
Best Overall : Reformation Vintage Crewneck Sweatshirt
What We Love
We can’t imagine lounging in the house or leaving it without the added comfort of this cozy, sophisticated crewneck.
What We Don’t Love
More colorways would be a bonus.
We’re already ra-ra for Reformation, and we’re doing extra-high cheerleader kicks in this old-school charmer, whose vintage style can be worn in all kinds of imaginable ways. We enjoy layering collared shirts and thin turtlenecks under the sweatshirt — its wider crewneck design and light organic cotton material prevent a bulky, awkward look.
While we’re partial to the soft petal pink shade (it’s pretty neutral and makes us feel like we’re cooling down after ballet class), Reformation also offers it in a darker, oatmeal shade that’s a little more elevated than a traditional graphite heather gray.
Size: XS–XL | Colors: 3 | Fit: Relaxed | Material: Organic cotton
Best Oversized: Aritzia Cozy Fleece Boyfriend Crew Sweatshirt
What We Love
The interior fleece lining is cozy but not overbearingly warm.
What We Don’t Love
The fit is a little more oversized than relaxed, so size down for a more fitted look.
Aritzia knows how to give the people what they want. This simple sweatshirt comes in short, regular, and tall lengths available, and colors (we especially love the bright teal) that materialize from garment-dying rather than fabric-dying, to avoid waste and additional harm to the environment.
Sizes range from a 2XS to a 2XL, but size down if you prefer a relaxed fit to the oversized look. There’s a terry fleece version, too, which is made of “cozy fleece” for softness and medium warmth.
Size: 2XS–2XL | Colors: 6 | Fit: Relaxed | Material: Cotton, polyester
Best Budget: Hanes Ecosmart Fleece Sweatshirt
What We Love
You’ll grab this lightweight sweatshirt during brisker months and warmer weather.
What We Don’t Love
It’s technically a men’s fit, so finding your best size could be tricky.
When we tell you this Amazon sweatshirt rarely leaves our side, we mean it. InStyle Senior Commerce Editor Christina Butan lives in comfy crewnecks and pullovers, and she can attest that this snuggly, affordable sweatshirt will become the centerpiece of your loungewear wardrobe. “I love the oversized fit, so I own it in large, but medium would fit just as well, too,” says Butan, who adds “It’s super cozy without being overbearing, thanks to a lightweight fleece lining; I like to wear it with just a vest on brisk days.” And, for the same reason we flock to Hanes as a more affordable option when we need a dupe for a Brandy Melville basic or a plush pair of socks, the sweatshirt’s quality is withstanding, and we’re fully confident that this sweatshirt will last throughout all four seasons and then some.
Size: Men’s S–5X | Colors: 21 | Fit: Relaxed | Material: Cotton, polyester
Best Splurge: Sandro Lorane Layered Look Sweatshirt
What We Love
The two-in-one combo is a match made in versatility heaven.
What We Don't Love
The one ecru colorway may wash out cooler skin tones.
Here’s a one-and-done way to do casual Fridays at the office. The pointed rhinestone embellished collar elevates your average sweatshirt while contrasting beautifully with the illusion of an untucked button-down. And the boxy silhouette is cropped at the waist and more fitted throughout the bodice, kind of like a structured boyfriend fit that balances your silhouettes when you’re wearing, well, anything, including straight-leg jeans, fitted trousers, and midi skirts. The delicate embroidery of Sandro’s signature double S tops off the luxury look — although you wouldn’t need a designer label to let you know it’s a high-end item.
Size: XS–XL | Colors: 1 | Fit: Regular | Material: Cotton, polyester
Best Plus-Size: SOLY HUX Women's Letter Print Long Sleeve Casual Pullover Top Sweatshirt
What We Love
It’s lightweight enough for mid-season.
What We Don't Love
It’s not a sustainable product.
“I love the look of this cozy casual pullover sweater for the perfect fall day out doing errands or at a pumpkin patch,” says Alex Stewart, founder of Sassy Confetti. “It's so versatile because you can wear it baggy with some dad jeans or tuck it into a sports bra to create a fun crop to go with leggings. It's giving an ‘I tried without trying’ vibe and we love that.” With its lower price tag, polyester fabric, and lack of transparent production info, you can be sure that this isn’t a sustainable product. That said, reviewers say it’s very soft inside, and lightweight enough to wear on warmer fall days or layer under a jacket.
Size: L–4X | Colors: 7 | Fit: Relaxed | Material: Polyester, spandex
Best Half Zip: Spanx AirEssentials Half Zip
What We Love
The elevated style and temperature-regulating fabric make it ideal for the office.
What We Don't Love
We wish it had pockets.
Lifehack: If you want a sweatshirt that can be worn like your favorite shacket, go with a half-zip, as the collar adds that formality to an otherwise comfy jacket. No wonder we see a sea of them every Friday on Wall Street! The only thing that can ameliorate the half-zip style is Spanx’s AirEssentials fabric, which Oprah Winfrey said feels like a hug. Butan is also obsessed, thanks to how the silky fabric is equally cooling and cozy.
Hitting right at the hips, the half-zip is easy to style with jeans, leggings, and even a dress, according to Butan. Plus, it comes in 11 shades, including an ever-versatile heather gray and navy blue. Pair with the matching “light as air” pants, and you may never want to take off this set. The only thing that could make these pieces more functional? Pockets.
Size: XS–3X | Colors: 11 | Fit: Regular | Material: Modal, polyester, elastane
Related: 18 Best Matching Sweatsuits For Cozy Season
Best Tall: Old Navy Dynamic Fleece Zip Hoodie for Women
What We Love
The semi-relaxed fit is super flattering on everyone.
What We Don’t Love
Tall sizes are only offered in neutral colorways.
Like sister brands Athleta, Gap, and Banana Republic, Old Navy also carries many items in petite, regular, and tall versions, making it a great go-to for the longer-bodied among us. For a zip-up hoodie that doesn’t end up showing your belly button, look no further than this sporty sweater. Although regular sizing offers brighter colorways, the tall version only comes in three neutrals, but we appreciate how the creamy hues are super versatile, especially in combination with the thick, luxe-looking fabric. Additionally, this sweatshirt is very flattering, thanks to its semi-relaxed fit and medium-weight fabric.
Size: S–XXL | Colors: 3 | Fit: Relaxed | Material: Cotton, polyester, spandex
Best Petite: Gap Vintage Soft Raglan Sweatshirt
What We Love
Coming in petite sizes, this sweatshirt won't overwhelm short frames.
What We Don't Love
Some people may not want to wear a logo.
Like many Gap products, this crew neck is available in petite, regular, and tall lengths to account for body diversity. The silhouette is somewhere between fitted and relaxed, which is the ideal middle ground for petite figures who want a relaxed look without drowning in fabric.
Made from cotton and polyester, this crew neck is breathable with a touch of stretch. We also love how Gap uses a special washing technique to make the fabric ultra-soft and slightly faded, giving it that beloved vintage feel. While some may not want to wear the Gap logo on their chest, there are plenty of colors that are logo-free.
Size: XS–L | Colors: 8 | Fit: Relaxed | Material: Cotton, polyester
Best Fleece: Skims Cotton Fleece Zip Up Hoodie
What We Love
The zip-up style, mid-length, and extended sizes give it a super flattering fit for everyone.
What We Don’t Love
By nature, fleece isn’t very breathable.
Skims bases its whole business model on creating clothes that highlight our best assets and feel comfortable at the same time. Even this zipped-up style manages to accentuate curves — impressive for a hoodie, right? The wide size range guarantees the perfect fit for your body type and neutral colors will match everything in your closet. Additionally, slipping into the plush fleece material gives our bodies the cozy hug they deserve, and though the material could run you a little warm, the hoodie also looks great unzipped with a cropped tee or even a bralette underneath.
Size: XXS–4X | Colors: 7 | Fit: Regular | Material: Cotton, polyester
Best Hooded: Dickie’s Women's Summerdale Hoodie
What We Love
Come rain, wind, or wet hair, the cotton fleece-lined hood will keep you warm and snuggly.
What We Don’t Love
Its longer length may look awkward on shorter folks.
InStyle commerce writer Irene Richardson rarely wears sweatshirts but after receiving this hoodie as a gift she says the thick material and not-too-oversized fit make it feel more elevated than your traditional sweatshirt “I frequently slip this plush guy in between my post-workout shower and coffee run, because its roomy fleece-lined hood prevents me from shivering with wet hair, especially since I can pull the hood in tight with drawstrings, and I can jam the kangaroo pocket fill with any number of things — phone, wallet, apartment keys, headphones — and the thick material prevents their weight from awkwardly pulling down the hoodie,” she adds. We think this pick is especially ideal for your off-duty-model fits, whether that consists of biker shorts or cut-off daisy dukes since it runs a little long and could hit a weird place with longer pants.
Size: XXS–XL | Colors: 3 | Fit: Relaxed | Material: Cotton, polyester
Best Pullover Crew Neck: Alo Yoga Accolade Crew Neck Pullover
What We Love
It’s very model off-duty.
What We Don't Love
Limited colorways sell out fast.
While you don’t need any luck to snap up one of these babies in black or heather gray, you need it in spades if you’re hoping to get your hands on one in a limited colorway. Still, there’s a reason this Alo number sells like hotcakes. “The Accolade Crew Neck Pullover is constructed of incredibly soft diagonal French terry and is available in a variety of beautiful hues to match your taste,” says fashion writer Emerald Elitou. “If you want to take it up a notch, wear it with fitted jeans and boots for a completely street-chic look. You may even mix it up with matching sweats and your favorite Jordans.” It’s available in sizes up to a 2XL, which is a respectable range, and features a relaxed fit that’s ideal for that model-off-duty look.
Size: XXS–2XL | Colors: 11 | Fit: Relaxed | Material: Cotton, polyester
Best Zip Up: Splendid Supersoft Zip Up Hoodie
What We Love
The softness is next level.
We We Don't Love
The material is probably too lightweight for cooler seasons.
This is undoubtedly a sweatshirt that’s designed for your lounging needs, but it’s tailored enough that you can also wear it as a cardigan for a more elevated look if you prefer. It’s made from Splendid’s signature “Super Soft” fabric, a triple-brushed blend of modal and spandex. And, while we appreciate that the plant-based modal material is a more sustainable choice than other synthetics, it makes the fabric of the sweatshirts feel a little flimsy and we worry it wouldn’t keep us warm in cooler weather.
Size: XXS–XXL | Colors: 5 | Fit: Fitted | Material: Modal, spandex
Best Velour: Victoria's Secret Velour Hoodie
What We Love
The muted colors and cropped cut make this a modern take on the velour tracksuit.
What We Don’t Love
The cropped length may fall too short on some.
We may not be donning full velour tracksuits like we used to — though celebrities keep wearing them — but we still have a soft spot for a good velour hoodie like this one from Victoria's Secret. Not only is the fabric extremely plush and cozy, but it also elevates any loungewear look, especially when it comes in these muted color options. That's right — Victoria's Secret isn't making those bright, logo-embossed tracksuits from the early 2000s. Instead, this is a grown-up version with only a subtle monogram in the corner. The cropped pullover pairs perfectly with the matching high-rise joggers, though some may wish the hoodie was longer.
Size: XS–XXL | Colors: 2 | Fit: Relaxed | Material: Polyester, elastane
Best White: lululemon Softstreme Perfectly Oversized Cropped Crew
What We Love
The thick fabric gives the sweatshirt a flattering weighted drape.
What We Don't Love
It requires some care when laundering.
It’s not required to burn expensive cedarwood incense and pad around a beachfront property while wearing this cropped crew, though its elegant, snow-white hue and drapey fit would be perfect for it. Not only is it the quintessential creamy white — not shockingly bright, but not too drab either — but the slightly oversized and cropped fit stops right above waistbands to prevent any boxiness.
Additionally, the exposed seams fall about a quarter off the shoulder for a laid-back style. Since we plan on wearing it after sweaty workouts and during brisk walks it’d be nice if we could simply toss it in the wash, but we’ll take the extra steps the brand recommends to preserve the style and color.
Size: 0–20 | Colors: 5 | Fit: Oversized | Material: Polyester, modal, elastane
Best Black: Nike Phoenix Fleece Crewneck Sweatshirt
Why We Love It
Sporty details make us feel incredibly cool, stylish, and surprisingly put together while wearing a sweatshirt.
What to Consider
It runs pretty large.
Thinking back on our favorite Hailey Bieber looks, it’s clear black sweatshirts are ubiquitous and well-appreciated in celebrity streetwear style. We too, feel supremely cool wearing the black Nike oversized hoodie thanks to its exaggerated details, like elongated cuff ribbing and roomy sleeves that relax around our silhouette. As much as we adore the laissez-faire attitude we undertake with each wear of its oversized fit, we’d still go one size down to avoid swimming in fabric.
Size: XXS–XXL | Colors: 13 | Fit: Oversized | Material: Cotton, polyester
Best Sustainable: Pangaia Reclaimed Cotton Sweatshirt
Why We Love It
Pangaia is super transparent with its sustainable initiatives.
What to Consider
Plus sizes would be great.
“In terms of comfort and sustainable fashion, Pangaia is really popular, as modeled by Chiara Ferragni,” says Lisa Sanchez, stylist at The Nines. “The company uses recycled cotton as well as cotton not treated with pesticides, so you can feel great about your circular purchase.”
Sanchez is right: Pangaia is fairly transparent about its many planet-conscious initiatives, and this classic crew neck is no exception to the brand’s ethical model. It’s upcycled from leftover materials to minimize waste, and every little detail is responsibly sourced. Plus, it features a relaxed, easy fit that has “cool girl” written all over it. We just wish it came in plus sizes for added inclusivity.
Size: XXS–XXL | Colors: 2 | Fit: Regular | Material: Recycled cotton, organic cotton
Best Graphic : Abercrombie NFL Graphic Crew Sweatshirt
Why We Love It
Who cares if you don’t have a favorite sports team this crewneck adds a vintage, sporty style to your wardrobe.
What to Consider
Styles sell out quickly.
From football jerseys to rugby polo, sports-inspired fashion continues to rule on and off the field. This graphic crew can spice up a wardrobe full of pastels or neutral-toned beiges, even if your loyalty doesn’t lie with a specific team. If you have no true allegiance like us (sorry) we like the Dallas Cowboys graphic print and how it merges trendy Western style with a cool vintage look and a color pallet that’ll match most of our closet. Even if you don’t like what’s happening on the outside you’ll adore melting into the snuggly fleece fabric. Hurry though, because the most popular teams don’t stay in stock for long.
Size: XS–XXL | Colors: 37 | Fit: Regular | Material: Cotton, polyester
Best with Pockets: Free People Grams Attic Sweatshirt
Why We Love It
All the fun, kitschy details make it a standout wardrobe piece.
What to Consider
If you prefer a more basic design, this isn’t for you.
Enough of raiding an old costume trunk for mothball-ridden goodies, the Free People sweatshirt piles on charming vintage treasures in one adorably oversized, and contemporary, design. All the pretty patchwork and crochet details continue from front to back making this a real party — sure, it’s busy, but we don’t think that limits the way you can wear it. (Though, it may limit how often you wear it.) Have fun playing with proportions and pair the fit with your teeniest, tiniest biker shorts and mini skirts, or embrace a full, bohemian ’fit and go long with a maxi skirt.
Size: XS–XL | Colors: 1 | Fit: Oversized | Material: Cotton
Best for the Office: By Anthropologie Embroidered Cutwork Sweatshirt
Why We Love It
We had to do a double-take to ensure that this elegant top is truly a sweatshirt.
What to Consider
The fabric is slightly see-through.
Take it from those of us who keep a pair of slippers under our desks, there are some sneaky ways to be comfortable at the office. Enter: this stunning work of latticework and floral embroidery. Its breathable cotton fabric and relaxed fit impressed us beyond the countless simple work blouses in our current wardrobe. It comes in standard, petite, and plus sizes, so we know it’ll look great on you, too.
Size: XXS–XXL | Colors: 2 | Fit: Regular | Material: Cotton
Best Sweatshirt Dress: Treasure & Bond Pleat Elbow Sleeve Sweatshirt Dress
Why We Love It
Pretty feminine details give this cozy style some elevated flair.
What to Consider
A couple of neutral colors would make it even more versatile.
Look hard enough and you’ll realize sweatshirt dresses frequent celeb looks — most recently Taylor Swift wore the style, but Claire Danes and Kendall Jenner have rocked the extended sweatshirt a time or two. There’s a lot to love about this comfy wardrobe staple — for one you’ll look instantly put together, but feel like you’re fully still in bed. The Treasure & Bond dress adds feminine pleated sleeves and offers its dress in springy colorways, fooling anyone into thinking what are essentially pajamas is a fully formal fit.
Size: XXS–XXL | Colors: 2 | Fit: Relaxed | Material: Cotton, polyester
Best for Summer: Madewell Terry Relaxed Raglan-Sleeve Sweatshirt
Why We Love It
Breezy terry material and cropped fit make it the perfect layering piece for summer.
What to Consider
It’s less cropped than we expected.
Picture this: Beach bonfires, a dusk cookout, and this adorable, vintage-style hoodie providing that extra layer of warmth and style through it all. We envision wearing it with a million iterations on our go-to summertime outfits, whether we throw its relaxed fit on over a teeny sports bra and leggings, pair it with a breezy circle skirt and sneakers, or layer it on top of a classic tee and linen shorts combo. As a bonus, the sturdy cotton material still feels high-quality and manages to be lightweight without reading as cheapy and paper-thin. Keep in mind that although the photo suggests a cropped fit, it hits a little below the belly button on most frames.
Size: XXS–XXL | Colors: 5 | Fit: Regular | Material: Cotton, polyester
What to Keep in Mind
Fit: Sweatshirts come in variations of fitted, relaxed, and oversized, and which type of fit you go for is really up to you. As a general rule, you should balance out your silhouette, so a more oversized style will look fab over some leggings or bike shorts, while a more fitted design is great over a pair of jeans. At the end of the day, it just depends on what you’re more comfortable with. For those that are on the ends of the height spectrum, look for designs that come in either tall or petite sizes, from brands Gap, Madewell, and Anthropologie.
Materials: Choosing the materials for a sweatshirt depends on your personal preferences, as well as what seasons you intend to wear your sweatshirt in and for which occasions. For example, a lightweight crew neck is great for an autumnal Starbucks run, while a velour hoodie makes the best companion for hibernating in the dead of winter. “If you’re looking for warmth, go with fleece,” says fashion blogger and stylist AK Brown. If you plan to work out in your sweatshirt, look for a hoodie with breathable cotton and just a touch of stretch.
Functionality: Just like with the materials, you want to consider when you'll be wearing your sweatshirt and how functional you need it to be. While a basic crew neck might be the right choice for lounging around, a design with special features like pockets, an adjustable waist, and a hood is a better fit when exercising or running errands.
Your Questions, Answered
What's the difference between a sweatshirt and hoodie?
“Sweatshirt” is a catch-all for a sweater that’s not knitted or woven (though knitted and woven sweatshirts also exist). Within the category, hoodies come with hoods while crewnecks have a simple, round neckline. There are also zipped hoodies, half-zips, and pullovers, which come with their own advantages. While pullovers are effortless, some prefer having the flexibility of closing and opening a zip-up. Bonus tip: Zip up hoodies are great to wear when getting ready since they won't mess up your hair or makeup.
How do you style a sweatshirt to look more like a model off duty?
The most recognizable supermodels of our time have done us a huge favor: They’ve elevated the humble sweatshirt into a must-have piece for looking effortlessly cool and like you’re expecting to be papped on your way home from yoga. “Take it from Kendall Jenner, Kristin Cavallari, and J.Lo: Make sure your sweatshirt fits you like a glove and pair it with leggings,” Sanchez suggests. “Also look for some cute footwear to make you go that extra stylish mile.” We love this combo with statement sneakers or slides.
Stewart offers another variation on this uniform. “If you want to go full model, the best way to style your sweatshirt is to buy it truly oversized and wear it more like a dress with biker shorts,” she says. “It's a true Princess Diana moment coming full circle.” Last but not least, if you’re aiming for more street style and less athleisure, “sweatshirts over oversized white button-down shirts are always a hit,” Brown says. This look is “very elevated and layered but only two pieces of clothing are needed.”
Why Shop With Us
Iris Goldsztajn is a London-based freelance writer covering fashion, beauty, wellness, and lifestyle. For this roundup, she interviewed style experts Lisa Sanchez, Alex Stewart, and AK Brown.
Irene Richardson is a beauty and fashion writer for the InStyle commerce team. She updated this article with additional product picks.
For more InStyle news, make sure to sign up for our newsletter!
Read the original article on InStyle.
