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Even despite its popularity in recent years, crewneck sweatshirts are a criminally underrated article of clothing. Its wear has been relegated to such banal activities as running errands and doing laundry, something you throw on for comfort rather than style. But now you don’t have to sacrifice one for the other. It’s time to rid yourself of any notions of sweatshirts as strictly loungewear and start considering them as a serious contender in your fall wardrobe.
Allow me a moment to extol the benefits of the crewneck sweatshirt. You already know sweatshirts are comfortable, the reason being they were designed exclusively for comfort (what a concept). The first sweatshirt came to be in 1920 when University of Alabama football player Benjamin Russell Jr. sought an alternative to the abrasive fabric of his football uniform. Russell Jr. brought the idea to his father Russell Sr., who in turn brought his son’s idea to fruition. Thus the sweatshirt was born. Part of the sweatshirt’s comfort, and appeal, lies in its warmth, and while a sweater can also keep you cozy, fabrics like wool — especially cheap wool — can make them not so pleasant to wear.
You’ve probably been accustomed to wearing sweatshirts by themselves, but if you’ve never used a sweatshirt as a layering piece, then you’re truly missing out on one of their greatest attributes. The crewneck sweatshirt is ideal for layering, and what is fall without layers? Layer a collared shirt underneath to achieve that preppy-collegiate look. Alternatively, go sans shirt and layer a light jacket over the sweatshirt (a sweatshirt underneath a jean jacket is especially attractive). Or if you’re feeling bold, layer both under and over the sweatshirt.
So sure, it might officially be “sweater weather,” but who’s to say sweatshirts aren’t the superior cold-weather staple?
Everlane The French Terry Crewneck
If there’s one crewneck sweatshirt that everyone needs in their closet, regardless of season, it’s the classic grey French terry crew, like this one from Everlane. Yes, it’s simple, but that’s entirely the point. Besides, if it has ‘French’ in its name then you know it’s automatically chic.
J.Crew Lightweight Sunfaded French Terry Sweatshirt
Give the appearance of a worn vintage piece with this dyed crewneck sweatshirt from J.Crew. The gentle fade will have people believing you’ve been wearing it for years, while the French terry and cotton slub will make you feel like you have.
Todd Snyder x Champion Midweight Pocket Sweatshirt
No list of crewneck sweatshirts would be complete without Champion, but we’re partial to Todd Snyder’s frequent collaboration with the brand. Reach for this guy on those days when you don’t know exactly what you want to wear but are determined to be as cozy as possible. The rusty brown color makes it a clear fall basic, while Archival Champion details, like the raglan sleeve and chest pocket, help it stand out from the rest.
Gap Vintage Soft Sweatshirt
Come fall and winter we always find ourselves drawn to slightly muted yet still rich colors like rust, so when it’s made available in a super soft, vintage-inspired sweatshirt, like this one from Gap, we’re naturally smitten.
Richer Poorer Fleece Sweatshirt
We’re partial to anything camel colored when it comes to the colder months, and Richer Poorer’s Fleece Sweatshirt is no different. Its simplicity is effective and will help to elevate the most basic of outfits thanks to the sophisticated yet subdued color.
Entireworld Loop Back Sweatshirt
Entireworld has quickly made a name for itself as a purveyor of some of the most comfortable sweats, and rightfully so. Their Loop Back Sweatshirt is described as “the sweatshirt to end all sweatshirts” and features a roomy silhouette that’s given definition thanks to the fitted hem and cuffs. The sweatshirt is slightly bigger than the raglans you might be accustomed to, but that’s what makes it so comfortable — of course, the Japanese organic cotton doesn’t hurt either.
L.L.Bean Classic Crewneck Sweatshirt
One of the worst tragedies to befall one’s sweatshirt is the much dreaded shrinkage. Who knows the countless number of sweatshirts that have been retired too early in their careers as the result of a powerful dryer? Luckily, L.L.Bean has taken the potential for disaster into account and use a prewashed fabric for crafting their crewneck sweatshirt, which helps to prevent shrinkage. No more throwing in a size medium sweatshirt into the dryer and pulling out an extra-small when finished.
Saturdays Ari Peace Washed Crew
Forgo all those muted neutrals and don’t be afraid to don something out of the ordinary even if it goes against the ingrained fall way of dressing. There’s no reason your fall and winter wardrobe shouldn’t feature brighter or less traditional colors for the season, especially when this amethyst beauty by Saturdays exists.
Outerknown Sur Sweatshirt
Off-white (cream? eggshell?) might seem like another unusual choice when it comes to a crewneck sweatshirt, but just imagine yourself looking crisp and clean in Outerknown’s Sur while silhouetted against the vibrant foliage.
Colorful Standard Classic Organic Crew Sweat
Sometimes what your wardrobe needs are the basics, like Colorful Standard’s Classic Organic Crew Sweat in a deep navy. While the sweatshirt may be simple, the design and craftsmanship certainly doesn’t suffer as a result, with the sweatshirt made from 100% organic cotton that’s garment dyed. So while it might be just a navy sweatshirt, it’s the only one you’ll ever need.
Katin Parks Reverse Fleece Crewneck Sweatshirt
Incorporate a little prep into your wardrobe by layering this Fleece Crewneck Sweatshirt from Katin Parks over a contrasting collared shirt, with the collar peeking out. Or, allow the navy and yellow stripes to speak for themselves and wear the sweatshirt as a standalone piece.
Cos Relaxed Sweatshirt
Go bold or go home with Cos’s Relaxed Sweatshirt in a vibrant shade of blue that would make Yves Klein proud.
Theory Mattis Waffle-Knit Cotton Sweatshirt
For those who love the texture and appearance of waffle-knit but desire something a little more heavy-duty than the usual thermals and waffle long-sleeves, look no further than Theory’s waffle-knit sweatshirt. The texture will provide a feel and look that’s entirely different from the usual French terry, especially when available in this soothing sage color.
Billy Reid Dover Crewneck Sweatshirt
While at a glance this might look like your typical grey crewneck sweatshirt, the basic is elevated thanks to the addition of rugged leather patches on the elbow. Think of it as the black-tie version of grey sweatshirts.
Madewell Garment-Dyed Crewneck Sweatshirt
This not-quite purple but not-quite grey sweatshirt from Madewell gleans inspiration from the sweatshirts of yesteryear, meaning no needless details or gimmicks, just a good ol’ pullover. The fit is similar to that of retro athletic gear, meaning while it’s not necessarily oversized, it definitely allows for more wiggle room than some of today’s slimmer options.
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