Fisherman sweaters are everywhere this season. Stylists explain why the best ones aren’t always the thickest

Fisherman sweaters are making waves this fall, and it’s easy to see why. They’re cozy, comfortable and full of that borrowed-from-the-coast charm that gives even a low-key outfit a little more personality. With their intricate cables and rich texture, these knits bring a sense of history, too. The style grew out of the knitting traditions of Ireland’s Aran Islands, where women knitted them for their fisherman husbands and sons in the 1800s. 

But before you get hooked on the first chunky knit you see, there’s more to finding the perfect fisherman sweater than piling on the yarn. Stylists say the best ones aren’t necessarily the thickest or heaviest — it’s the fit, fabric and thoughtful details that make the difference.

Why are fisherman sweaters having a moment again?

The fisherman sweater’s appeal lies in its balance of practicality and style. It’s easy to throw on with everyday staples, but the intricate knit gives any outfit enough interest to need little else. “They tap into the growing appreciation for classic, timeless pieces that stand the test of time. We’re also seeing a continued love for texture and pieces that feel substantial and well-made,” says stylist Kendra Sharpe. 

The sweater’s sturdy reputation also speaks to shoppers who want more wear from what they buy. “They are a classic style that is incredibly practical — they keep you so warm,” says personal shopper and fashion stylist Zoë Hennessey. “We have seen normcore, sportswear and utilitarian dressing continue to creep into high fashion, so this feels like a natural progression. It is a piece that has been around forever, it looks great on and it does not feel frivolous.”

What makes a great fisherman sweater beyond thickness?

A sweater doesn’t need to double as a weighted blanket to earn a place in your winter rotation. Sharpe tells us that the fiber, knit and overall construction deserve just as much attention as thickness. “Quality yarn and good construction help a sweater hold its shape and last over time. Fit matters, too. It should have good structure without feeling overly bulky,” she says.

Before reaching for the chunkiest knit on the rack, check the label — and consider where you’ll wear it. Hennessey always starts with the material. She explains that traditional Aran sweaters were made with wool that retained some of its natural lanolin, which offered a degree of water resistance. But your ideal fiber will depend on your climate.

“If I lived in a colder climate, I would absolutely look for wool or cashmere, but living in Los Angeles, my favorite fisherman sweater is actually 100% cotton. I still get that classic chunky knit, but I can wear it through our winters, on a cool spring day or even a chilly summer night. I always prefer natural fibers, especially for a sweater like this,” she adds.

How does sweater weight change the fit — and how you style it?

Before you pick your knit, consider what’s going over or under it. That chunky sweater might look great solo, but squeeze it under a fitted coat and getting dressed becomes a wrestling match. “Sweater weight really changes the silhouette. A chunky, heavier knit is naturally going to add more volume, while a finer knit will sit closer to the body and feel less bulky. But if you do not love oversized clothing, I would look for a finer weave,” says Hennessey.

If you’re opting for lightweight knits, Sharpe recommends a few outfit formulas: “For women, I’d pair a lighter-weight sweater with structured trousers and a long wool coat. For men, I’d layer one over an Oxford shirt and pair it with chinos and Chelsea boots.” If you love a chunky cable knit, give it room to be the main event. On milder days, wear it as your outer layer over a T-shirt or button-down. When temperatures drop, add more thin base layers for warmth or reach for a roomier coat that leaves the knit some breathing room.

Now that you know what to look for when shopping for one, we cast a wide net and rounded up our favorite options to shop this fall. Whether you like yours oversized and slouchy or a little more streamlined, there’s a fisherman sweater for just about everyone below. 

Best women’s fisherman sweaters

Trendy Queen

Shoppers can’t get enough of this cozy fisherman’s sweater — not just for its oversized fit, but because it looks almost identical to the iconic one Rory Gilmore wore in Gilmore Girls. It gives off that cozy, coastal charm that somehow manages to feel both classic and current. You can go always go with a cream option à la Rory, but I’m fond of this classic navy style.

Quince

Made from 100% organic cotton, this ribbed sweater is soft and breathable, with a relaxed fit that’s still lightweight enough to layer. I love how it instantly gives off that nautical, “Yes, I have a beach house” vibe. It comes in 11 styles, but I can’t resist the timeless appeal of classic cream.

Amazon

With its classic cable-knit pattern and oversized fit, this sweater makes a strong case for canceling plans and getting cozy. Consider us hooked. The rich brown shade feels just right for fall, while taupe, navy, black and blue offer plenty of options if you find yourself fishing for another color. Shoppers especially love its soft texture and well-defined knit.

Best men’s fisherman sweaters

Amazon

You really can’t beat the price on this lightweight style. It hits the layering sweet spot: substantial enough to pull on over a button-down, yet slim enough to slip under a blazer or coat without the bulk. Dress it up for the office or keep it casual with jeans on the weekend. Either way, it’s an easy way to add a little cozy without making your wallet sweat.

Marshall’s

This cotton-and-wool-blend cable-knit sweater takes the guesswork out of chilly-day dressing. The textured knit gives a simple outfit plenty of charm — just add your favorite pants and you’re ready for whatever’s on the calendar, from picking pumpkins to picking up the dinner tab.

Gap Factory

There are plenty of knits in the sea, but this relaxed style is a catch, in our opinion. The easy, relaxed fit and ribbed design make it a natural partner for jeans and weekend lounging, but you could always layer it over a polo or button-down for a little weekday polish. It ranges from XS to XXL and you can choose between six colors. 

Amazon

This cable-knit cutie brings softness, warmth and plenty of outfit potential. Onereviewer wrote of this sweater, “I absolutely never write reviews, but this is a shockingly good product for the price; the material is thick and heavyweight with a great fit.”