Style Roundup: Men’s Sweater Top Picks

Based on all the fall wardrobe question’s we’ve been receiving from you lately, we came to the conclusion a fall roundup was in order. Done and done. In this Gear Patrol Roundup, we’ve taken the time to scour some of our favorite men’s brands (high and low), for unique, sharp, and warm sweaters that’ll match just about any man’s style. From cardigans, to hoodies, to classic V and crew necks, these sweaters are great options for the man reassessing the state of his fall attire. Check out our selections after the jump, and as always, if you feel there’s any gaping holes in our selection, let us know in the comments. Like you, we strive for improvement.

Disclaimer: we purposely avoided cashmere in this roundup to keep the average cost spectrum down.

Banana Republic Merino Wool Shawl Neck Sweater

Shawl neck lines help to break up monotone color and provide versatility for both casual and stylish affairs. While everyone may not feel comfortable pulling off white, additional piping details around the cuffs and waist line help prevent this extra-fine merino wool sweater from turning you into a middle school Christmas play snow flake.

Cost: $99

Brooks Brothers Merino Argyle Half Wool Zip Sweater

Just because Argyle is the pattern of choice for country club golfers doesn’t mean wearing it makes you look like an ass. Downplayed, thanks to it’s light earth tone color palette, this half wool zip is both classic and basic. Whether it’s matched with collared button up for work, or jeans for cocktails later on, it never hurts to look clean cut every now and then. Also while we won’t dispute the ability to find something similar for less, coughing up for Brooks Brother’s quality will definitely give you several additional years of wear.

Cost: $138

Diesel Keflon Cardigan

Distinct from typical department store fare, the Keflon is a statement piece to base an entire look around. Featuring double breasted buttons and wide cut hooded neck line, this sweater is great for casual Saturday afternoons and easily blend into the evening. Ideally the small diesel logo on the lower left side would have been nixed, but you can’t win them all.

Cost: $170

Eddie Bauer Field Crew Sweater

Whatever trends may come and go in the fashion world, we’re certain crew neck sweaters will never fade. As an interesting twist on the fall stand by, the Eddie Bauer Ribbed Field Crew adds padded detail to the shoulders and forearms for a refreshing take on the common look. Available in regular and tall sizes (depending on your torso) it should fit into just about any body type under the sun, with minimal impact on your winter clothing budget.

Cost: $50

Uniqlo Half-Zip Orange Sweater

While this pick may be reminiscent of Clark Griswald, paired with the right shirt and a healthy dose of confidence, this sweater works well over the bounds of neutral toned masses. Unfortunately, this sweater is tougher to find for non-city dwellers, as Uniqlo’s U.S. based stores are limited. Daring? Yes. Cheap? Yes.

Cost: $30

John Varvatos Shawl Collar Cardigan

As the most expensive pick of the bunch, this sweater certainly borders on being a thick knit coat. Rich, luxurious, and made from a combination of Wool and Alpaca, owning this definitely provides a significant upgrade in style… that is, if you’re willing to spend the cash.

Cost: $495

Patagonia Men’s Felton Hoody

Part lounging sweat shirt, part campfire ready sweater, this knit lambswool blend has a kangaroo-style pouch for hand warming and/or whiskey flask carrying. Your choice. Available in feathered grey (pictured right) or retro khakis. Since it’s made by Patagonia we’re confident it’ll last for years to come. Keep in mind that you’ll have to cough up some dough for the Patagonia premium tax.

Cost: $160

L.L. Bean Ragg Wool Full-Zip Sweater

Let your inner New Englander shine with this basic wool shell. It’s designed with layering in mind and produced in 5 different colors with the option for regular and tall sizes. No outdoors men should spend fall without one, especially considering LL Bean’s legendary life time guarantee.

Cost: $50

J. Crew Wool Shall Collar with Pocket

In contrast to other shawl collars (including those on this list), this ribbed and front pocketed with big buttons, swaps prissy style leanings for a more rugged appearance. Throw it on over a basic plaid shirt and you’ll be good to go.

Cost: $138

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Ralph Lauren Merino V-Neck Sweater

Aa classic v-neck from the king of prep is never a bad decision. Great for taking a break from blazers with your work attire and sold in a slew of colors, this sweater will never age in terms of style. Note though, that it’s a tad more expensive (this is Ralph Lauren after all) and this version forgoes the Ralph Lauren pony emblem (a detail we appreciate). If you like the cut or prefer to be a walking billboard, go for the branded model.

Cost: $125

Express For Men Cotton Ribbed Military Zip Sweater

Modern and form fitting, this sweater is the zip-up take on the aforementioned Eddie Bauer field crew sweater – with epaulettes and no forearm pads. It definitely leans on the court of urban clubbers, but also works as a quick way to spruce up basic tees.

Cost: $125

Old Navy Crew Neck Cable Knit Sweater

Looking for a one-winter sweater? Why pay more than $25? Old Navy offers the basic cable knit anyone can feel guiltless about punching a few holes through. Sold in three dark neutrals, you don’t have to spend all your money on alternatives unless cashmere is a must have.

Cost: $25

J. Crew Men’s Toggle Neck Hoodie

A second appearance for sweater king J.Crew. With so many good selections from this season, we couldn’t just pick one. Featuring prominent toggles dangling across its neck line, this sweater stands out even if you’re not sipping Mate in the Andes. Warm and slightly funky, throw it on once in a while to diversify your standard winter uniform.

Cost: $150

Urban Oufitters Koto Roadster Cardigan

Channeling Brooklyn hipsters in a not so subtle way, we appreciate the clean cut lines of this cardigan when combined with its anthricite marled heathered coloring. Nice but not (too) professorial, it represents a good balance between hip and trendy.

Cost: $48

Vince Cotton Cashmere Crew Sweater

Though it’s quite pricey being a basic crew sweater, it’s asymmetrical arm patterns provide a unique punch not found on other brand versions. Plus, for what it’s worth, we really value Vince as a brand and can attest to the quality and comfort of their sweaters.

Cost: $275

Nau Bunny Goat Hoody

Eco friendly and soft to boot, the Nau Bunny Goat Hoody is a great casual option for trips back and forth to the gym or walking mans best friend. Throw it on, enjoy the comfort, and get going. By the way, what the hell is a bunny goat?

Cost: $185

Gap Buffalo Plaid Cardigan

Lumber jacks clearly must be doing something right. Plaid and are in the world of fashion in a big way. Sold in both grey and classic red, this cardigan highlights your wanna be Wolverine with style.

Cost: $78

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