Minis, midis, maxis, ribbed, chunky, hooded, and more — trust that there's a perfect sweater dress in here for you, too. If there's one thing we know about you, dear Refinery29 reader, is that you absolutely live for dresses of all kinds: casual dresses, puff-sleeve dresses for cheeky occasions, and cottagecore nap dresses for the home, just to name a few.
Welcome to Hype Machine, our hit-list of the top reviewed products across the web — according to a crowd of die-hard shoppers. Call this your 4-star & up only club, with entry granted by our devoted-to-the-goods shop editors.
At Refinery29, we’re here to help you navigate this overwhelming world of stuff. All of our market picks are independently selected and curated by the editorial team. All product details reflect the price and availability at the time of publication. If you buy or click on something we link to on our site, Refinery29 may earn commission.
Quince Mongolian Cashmere Turtleneck Sweater Dress
The Best Luxe & Ultra-Soft Sweater Dress
The Hype: 4.8 out of 5 stars; 275 reviews on Quince.com
As with all of Quince's cozy offerings, this turtleneck sweater dress is made from ethically sourced, Grade A cashmere from Mongolia. It's available in five neutral colors if you're looking for a worthwhile capsule piece for fall.
“I am obsessed with this dress, and I’m already living in it,” wrote a reviewer. “Like all of Quince’s cashmere, it’s so soft, but it’s also a great length and versatile.” Another reviewer described how graceful they felt with the dress on. “When you wear this simple yet elegant dress, you feel warmly wrapped comfortably.”
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Quince Mongolian Cashmere Turtleneck Sweater Dress, $, available at Quince
Free People's Trixie Sweater Maxi Dress
The Best Lounge In Sweater Dress
The Hype: 4.3 out of 5 stars; 50 reviews on FreePeople.com
This stretchy floor-length number comes in eight colorways and is a no-brainer fall look. It's a laidback and versatile piece to lounge in, whether on the beach or the couch.
"I love this so much I'm considering buying another color. I'm 5'7 and the fit is great. It's thick, but soft and stretchy," writes a reviewer. "I'm always looking for easy-to-wear classic dresses and this is added to my rotation for sure."
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FP Beach | Free People Trixie Sweater Maxi, $, available at Free People
H&M's MAMA Knit Puff-Sleeved Dress
The Best Maternity Sweater Dress
The Hype: 4.5 out of 5 stars; 8 reviews on HM.com
This one is for all the pregnant people out there who don't want to sacrifice style for comfort during those last few months with a bump. The simple, yet chic, puffed sleeves add an edge to this classic sweater dress.
A reviewer raved that she "wore this dress for [her] shower at 30 weeks," noting that " I am fairly petite, but I loved that it was fitted, flattering but NOT too tight around my backside! It did not hold a lot of static like the other piece I ordered and it was very soft!"
Shop H&M
H&M MAMA Knit Puff-sleeved Dress, $, available at H&M
Lulu's Loving It Knit Cutout Halter Bodycon Midi Dress
The Best Summer Nights Sweater Dress
The Hype: 5 out of 5 stars; 75 reviews on Lulus.com
Add a little heat to your chilly fall night with this transitional stunner from Lulu's — paired with a jacket, of course. The haltered neck, breezy cut-puts, and knotted detail create a figure-shaping sweater dress that's a MUST have!
"The dress is a nice knit material and fits perfectly," shares a reviewer, "I'm shorter so it's a little long but I just don't pull the dress all the way down. Can be dressed up or worn casually!" Customers raved about the "perfect fit" of the dress, stating how it's "easy to move in," and "super comfy material" while still being "very flattering."
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Lulus Loving It Knit Cutout Halter Bodycon Midi Dress, $, available at Lulus
Abercrombie & Fitch's Long-Sleeve Hardware Mini Sweater Dress
The Best Date Night Sweater Dress
The Hype: 5 out of 5 stars; 3 reviews on Abercrombie.com
This long sleeve mini dress from Abercrombie & Fitch may be your next fall date night staple. The heart-shaped neckline and unique u-hardware will keep you cozy while making a subtle statement layered under a coat and paired with your favorite boots.
One reviewer shares they were "really happily surprised at the thick material," adding, "The cream is definitely off-white/cream. I was worried it would be see-through or completely white, but no such issues. I'm 5' 2'' and I like my dresses short, and I got petite and it hits on the thigh at about the right place, halfway up. I probably would want it even shorter, but it's fine. Anyway, really good quality."
"The moment I saw this dress I HAD TO PURCHASE," remarked another reviewer, "It’s so beautiful giving PSL vibes and the fit makes it even more of a win."
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Abercrombie and Fitch Long-Sleeve Hardware Mini Sweater Dress, $, available at Abercrombie and Fitch
Eloquii Novelty Stretch Cardigan Sweater Dress
The Best Snuggly Sweater Dress
The Hype: 4.4 out of 5 stars; 62 reviews on Eloquii.com
Calling all consistently cold peeps. If you want to be snuggly and warm in the upcoming seasons, then button up in this preppy-looking cardigan dress. Although it's definitely a thicker option, it's still stretchy so that you can still move freely. Plus, the nature of the fabric means you can size up or down for different effects.
"The dress is heavyweight with a great deal of stretch. You can probably go down a size due to the thickness of the yarn and the amount of stretch," shares a reviewer. "It's so plush and thick that you won't need a coat. Also, it fits great... order your size if you want a true fit which hugs your curves loosely or go down a size or two if you want it shorter and snug."
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Eloquii Novelty Stretch Cardigan Sweater Dress, $, available at Eloquii
Staud Shoko Color Block Ribbed Sweater Dress
The Hype: 4.2 out of 5 stars; 21 reviews on Bloomingdales.com
Are you indecisive when it comes to color? Is it always between black or white or another set of your favorite hues? No need to fret, as Staud has covered you with its color-block sweater dress. Now, you can get two of your favorite shades in one fashionable ribbed dress.
"I've purchased this dress in two colors... It's perfect for a casual day with flats, dressed up with heels and jewelry, or as a cardigan," raves a reviewer. "The fit is generous, don't size up. Also, the fabric is not sheer. It's super soft and comfortable. Plus, it doesn't wrinkle, so great for travel."
Shop Staud at Bloomingdale's
Staud Shoko Color Block Ribbed Sweater Dress, $, available at Bloomingdale's
Venus Pleated Sweater Dress
The Best Day & Night Sweater Dress
The Hype: 4.8 out of 5 stars; 165 reviews on Venus.com
Add a versatile dress to your workwear lineup. It has a trendy pleated skirt with a turtleneck that makes it appropriate for work and happy hour afterward with friends. There's even an adjustable tie belt that loops through silver grommets.
"I love the way this dress fits. It's form-fitting but the skirt has a bouncy/ flowy feel to it which I'm obsessed with," a reviewer shares. "It has enough coverage to wear to the office, but certainly fun enough to wear out as well."
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Venus Pleated Sweater Dress, $, available at Venus
French Connection's Babysoft Crewneck Sweater Dress
The Best Everyday Sweater Dress
The Hype: 4.4 out of 5 stars; 47 reviews on Nordstrom.com
Versatility is the key to a great piece of clothing and this "amazingly soft" sweater dress comes in four colorways and can seamlessly be dressed up or down. One reviewer noted how the dress "will be a good staple throughout winter." The thick sweater material is sure to "hug the body AND keep you warm."
Another reviewer remarked on the "great quality/material. Thick enough so it's not see-through, but without being constricting. Absolutely love it! Would suggest sizing up though as it does fit a bit snug."
Shop French Connection at Nordstrom
French Connection Babysoft Crewneck Sweater Dress, $, available at Nordstrom
Anrabess Turtleneck Oversized Sweater Dress
The Best Sweater Dress With Countless Of Colors
The Hype: 4.2 out of 5 stars; 6,649 reviews on Amazon
'Tis almost the season for turtlenecks — and this ribbed sweater dress is made to fit easy and oversized for those one-and-done days. And, because this is on Amazon, you can be assured there are many fun colors to choose from.
"I am shook. I was not expecting this sweater dress to be THIS good. I was excited for this to come in the mail and I imagined it would be cute, but this hits every check mark," a reviewer exclaimed. "I took a gamble buying this because there weren't very many reviews and me being a plus size girl, it's hard buying clothing offline. I am 5'6" 245lbs and I bought the biggest size which is an XL. It's perfect and the color is gorgeous too."
Shop Anrabess on Amazon
Anrabess Turtleneck Oversized Sweater Dress, $, available at Amazon
Madewell Ribbed Half-Zip Sweater Dress
The Hype: 4.2 out of 5 stars and 9 reviews
Cozy, ribbed, and made of wool, this relaxed-fit sweater dress is the epitome of dress-up-or-down versatility. "I would literally relocate to a colder climate just so I could wear this dress all year! I bought the black [and] white marl first and loved it so much I dropped everything to go back and get the burgundy one. So comfy, so cute, can be styled in so many ways,” wrote reviewer Sammiefam. Customers loved the straight, easy fit and woolly fabrication, calling the frock “darn cozy,” “nice and thick,” and “warm and super comfortable.”
Madewell Ribbed Half-Zip Sweater Dress DETAILShttps://www.madewe, $, available at Madewell
Marnie Midi Dress
The Hype: 4.8 out of 5 stars and 6 reviews
What They're Saying: Take note: This may look like a two-piece sweater dress set, but it's actually a single statement-making piece that features unique twists and exaggerated ribbed texture. “Fits like a dream,” wrote a reviewer who wore the adventurous style. “Material is thick and form-fitting." A self-proclaimed “curvy” reviewer called it “gorge,” stating that they were “worried how it would look on [their] lower stomach [and] hips, but it’s super flattering” — a sentiment echoed by three other reviewers, one of whom called the dress “perfectly perfect.” “Really complements my shape without being too revealing,” wrote another.
Free People Marnie Midi Dress, $, available at Free People
Wild Fable Bodycon Sweater Dress & Shrug Set
The Hype: 4.5 out of 5 stars and 25 reviews at Target
Don’t be fooled by the seemingly unified construction — this is a two-piece sweater dress set! Wear it solo as a sleeveless sweater dress, or with the shrug top for a full-on chic sweater dress look. "A great dress for every occasion. I love this dress! Super comfy and not sheer at all. Wore it to a baby shower and got a lot of compliments." Another style that racked up multiple “flattering” mentions, the XS - 4X-sized frock pleased wearers across the body-type spectrum. “Get this dress!!” one customer urged. “I wasn’t sure about the shrug look, but it’s on-trend and accentuates your chest area really well. ... I [usually wear] L or XL in Wild Fable, and the L fit me well. Don’t hesitate like I did!”
Wild Fable Bodycon Sweater Dress & Shrug Set, $, available at Target
Eloquii The One Sleeve Sweater Dress
The Hype: 4.5 out of 5 stars and 2 reviews on Eloquii
With one long sleeve and one nonexistent one, this sweater dress strikes the perfect balance of sleek and fun. "Love love love this dress! The fit, the color, the material, all exceeded my expectations!" One reviewer — despite being a little challenged by the style’s structure — wrote that the boldly asymmetrical frock was “beautiful.“
Eloquii One Sleeve Sweater Dress, $, available at Eloquii
Everlane The Cashmere Polo Dress
The Hype: 4.39 out of 5 stars and 41 reviews at Everlane
Just because winter weather is drab doesn't mean our clothes have to be. This sunny cashmere sweater dress with a classic collar is a prime example — and at 50% off, it would be a steal for half the fabric. One reviewer wrote: “The fit is true to size; not fitted but not too loose. The length is great for boots and the side slit makes walking easy. It goes from indoor lounging to outdoorsy with a coat and boots. Love it!" Another reviewer wrote that the easy silhouette “skims the body just right.” One reviewer who normally wears a size 16 purchased the XL found it to be “roomy,” remarking that “this dress is the perfect ‘I gotta get out of my sweats and look good feel good in two seconds’ outfit. The fabric is soft and light,” they continued, “not clingy, and color is true. V-neck hits at flattering spot, as does length.”
Everlane The Cashmere Polo Dress, $, available at Everlane
Nike Essential Fleece Hooded Sweatshirt Dress
The Hype: 4.9 out of 5 stars and 17 reviews at Nordstrom
Nike's fleece hoodie sweatshirt in dress form makes for the ultimate cozy feel (and it has pockets). Says one reviewer: "I love wearing this dress! It feels so good! It's warm, stylish and it goes well with my Ugg boots! This will definitely be a must-have forever!"
Nike Essential Fleece Hooded Sweatshirt Dress, $, available at Nordstrom
Abercrombie & Fitch's Jacquard Mini Sweater Dress
The Best Summer Nights Sweater Dress
The Hype: 4.8 out of 5 stars; 15 reviews on Abercrombie.com
Summer nights are gradually getting brisker, and the comfy mini will soon be your go-to dress. The jacquard knit will keep you warm, but it also has eye-catching details of a trendy boat neckline and fitted silhouette.
"The color is a bit muted in person then the photos show," shares a reviewer. "However, it's made out of a thick comfortable material and is a super cute dress for the summer. I got a petite small, but I maybe would've sized up for a looser fit."
Shop Abercrombie & Fitch
Abercrombie & Fitch Jacquard Mini Sweater Dress, $, available at Abercrombie & Fitch
UO Dale Ribbed Bodycon Polo Dress
The Hype: 4.4 out of 5 stars and 23 reviews at Urban Outfitters
Preppy is (still) alive and well! This polo sweater dress is a solid transition piece from summertime seaside vacationing to back-to-school crunchy fall foliage. But, don't be fooled, this dress can easily be layered up for winter with some thick cozy tights, a coat, and boots. Reviwers with a multitude of body types found that the frock complemented their shapes: One “athletic” reviewer appreciated that the dress “accentuated [their] curves,” another found the ribbed texture “[smoothed] over imperfections” and “fit [their] very large chest, which is no easy task” (and found that it ran big on the lower half). "I love this dress and will be wearing it for the foreseeable future. It is so soft and so flattering and could be worn to do basically anything. The fabric is really stretchy; you could even go a size down but I love the fit as is in my regular M size. I got the brown — regretting not getting the blue too!"
UO Dale Ribbed Bodycon Polo Dress, $, available at Urban Outfitters
H&M+ Jacquard-Knit Dress
The Hype: 4.5 out of 5 stars and 17 reviews at H&M
“Looking all fly!!!!” exclaimed a reviewer who purchased this endorphin-boosting dress earlier this month. “My look is really hot.” If this cheerful sweater dress doesn't put an actual smile on your face, we're not sure what will. With a jacquard knit made from a soft recycled polyester blend, an oversized fit, and blouse-y sleeve with a dropped shoulder, this easy pullover has reviewers feeling very happy with their ’fits, earning the dress nearly five stars across the board. One reviewer declared it to be “super cute.”
H&M Jacquard-knit Dress, $, available at H&M
French Connection Simona Long Sleeve Rib Sweater Dress
The Hype: 4.7 out of 5 stars and 29 reviews at Nordstrom
Look closely and you'll see a sleek, two-tone knitted design that's made to accentuate and flatter hourglass figures. (Though, as reviewers have noted, it's great for other body shapes, too.) "I’m normally a 10-12 in dresses I ordered a 10,” explained one reviewer of the frock’s fit. “The dress is form-fitting but not ridiculously tight. It sits nicely on my body. I am 5’10 [and] 198 lbs for reference. I’m not super curvy but the pattern enhances my shape. The material is not thin but it’s also not super thick...it’s just right. I’ll be ordering the green one as well!"
French Connection Simona Long Sleeve Rib Sweater Dress, $, available at Nordstrom
Eliza J. Fit & Flare Sweater Dress
The Hype: 5 out of 5 stars and 2 reviews at Nordstrom
Sometimes, you just need a modest, non-frumpy sweater dress that's chicly polished for a professional setting. This one fits the bill, and in a rich, beautiful teal color. One reviewer commented on the frock’s stylish versatility: "The preview photos for this dress make it look classy, maybe kind of preppy, which is great. But paired with black tights and black leather booties, it picks up some sophisticated punk vibes. Love it."
Eliza J. Fit & Flare Sweater Minidress, $, available at Nordstrom
Pink Queen Women's Loose Turtleneck Oversize Long Pullover Sweater Dress
The Hype: 4.2 out of 5 stars and 18,187 reviews at Amazon
Honestly, this one's a twofer — you could wear this as a sweater dress or as an oversized sweater with slim pants or jeans. This dress also comes in a ton of other colors, including several leopard-print options. "I LOVE THIS SWEATER DRESS!” exclaimed one reviewer. “I read the reviews [that] said if you want the over size look to go up a size. I am 5’4. 145 pounds. Normally wear a medium. I went up to a large for the over size look. I normally roll up the sleeve once for a cute cuffed look. DEFINITELY RECOMMEND."
Pink Queen Women's Loose Turtleneck Oversize Long Pullover Sweater, $, available at Amazon
FP Beach El Topo Sweater Maxi
The Flowy Maxi Sweater Dress
Inspired by beach cover-ups, this heathered sweater dress is designed to drape loosely on the body, as though you're headed to an oceanside bonfire after sunset. You can also grab this flowy dress in red wine or black.
The Hype: 4.4 out of 5 stars and 33 reviews at Free People
Inspired by beach cover-ups, this heathered sweater dress is designed to drape loosely on the body, as though you're headed to an oceanside bonfire after sunset. You can also grab this flowy dress in red wine or black. "This arrived beyond my expectations! The fabric is quite heavy, with movement and stretch — it is a shapely cut. It has some warmth but is breathable. The texture is gorgeous,” wrote a happy customer. “Will look great with boots, sandals, or slippers! Sleeves come all the way to my wrists and the length is just above my ankles (I am 5' 9"). The olive color is so rich and I'm looking forward to getting another in natural perhaps. Really gorgeous piece. Please make more colors."
FP Beach El Topo Sweater Maxi, $, available at Free People
MOVEFORWARDFIRST Cashmere Knit Hooded Sweater Dress
The Hype: 4.8 out of 5 stars and 47,151 reviews at Etsy
This exceptionally cozy hoodie sweater dress is guaranteed to make you feel like you're wearing an all-day hug. “Warm, soft, hoodie, AND pockets!” exclaime a Etsy reviewer. “This is so comfy. I'm 5' 4" and about 125 [lbs] and I got a small — it fits perfectly but any bigger would be too big. It does have room to stretch so I don't have any restricted movement.”
MOVEFORWARDFIRST Cashmere Knit Hooded Sweater Dress, $, available at Etsy
Abercrombie & Fitch Easy-Fitting Turtleneck Sweater Dress
The Hype: 4.9 out of 5 stars and 9 reviews
The classic mock neck sweater dress gets a contemporary upgrade with an open back, ribbed texture, and midi length. "This dress has such quality material and feels amazing — the open back is a beautiful detail,” wrote a reviewer named Tatum. Wearers loved the style’s figure-hugging fit, with one noting that the “supportive knit” complemented their “hourglass figure.” “Snatched!!!” declared customer Hilary. “I'm [5’ 1”] and thought it would be too long on me since most midi dresses make me look frumpy,” they continued, “but this dress is perfect! It's classy with the back cutout, thick material and hugs your [curves]! Also can dress up or down with white sneakers.” A reviewer named Lesly found this “baddie dress” to be “cute and great quality.”
Abercrombie & Fitch Open-Back Midi Sweater Dress, $, available at Abercrombie & Fitch
Pact Classic Cable Knit Sweater Dress
The Classic Cable Knit Sweater Dress
Pact, which is always leading the way in the sustainable fashion space, offers a can't-go-wrong sweater dress that is Global Organic Textile Standard Certified and manufactured at a Fair Trade Certified factory. Plus, the cable knit is super cute!
The Hype: 4.5 out of 5 stars and 160 reviews on wearpact.com
What They're Saying: "This dress is more than expected. Heavy enough to be substantial, light enough to be comfortable and flattering — and all with organic cotton? COME ON! It's perfect. I will wear it every week this winter."
PACT Classic Cable Knit Sweater Dress, $, available at PACT
Old Navy Rib-Knit Cardigan Sweater Midi Dress
The Henley Sweater Dress
Super soft, stretchy, and comfy to wear, this relaxed-fit sweater dress is the epitome of dress-up-or-down versatility. This dress also comes in two additional covetable colors, and it ranges in sizes XS through 4X.
The Hype: 4.5 out of 5 stars and 69 reviews on oldnavy.gap.com
What They're Saying: "I love this! I've been looking for the perfect button-down sweater dress for a while now and this one is just right. Super soft, cozy, and not too heavy. Pair it with a jean jacket and booties and you're good to go!"
Old Navy Striped Rib-Knit Cardigan Sweater Midi Dress, $, available at Old Navy
Nina Leonard Geometric Print Sweater Dress
The Fit-and-Flare Sweater Dress
If you're looking for a sweater dress with a unique design, this affordable fave from Nordstrom Rack is the frock to cop. Not into the print? You can get this in plain black or a subtler black-on-maroon colorway.
The Hype: 4.6 out of 5 stars and 417 reviews on nordstromrack.com
What They're Saying: "Purchased an XL in the navy and was surprised how flattering it was on my curvy figure. Sweater dresses aren't usually the most forgiving but the waist on the dress comes above my natural waistline so it does a great job concealing my midsection. The fabric has a nice weight to it without being bulky or clingy. Love the flared, twirly skirt too."
Nina Leonard Geometric Print Sweater Dress, $, available at Nordstrom Rack
Abercrombie & Fitch V-Neck Slip Midi Sweater Dress
The Slip-In-A-Slit Sweater Dress
Form-fitting but generously stretchy, this ribbed sweater dress is effortless enough for everyday casual wear and for easy dress-up with the right shoes and accessories. You can also score it in creamy white or classic black.
The Hype: 4.5 out of 5 stars and 28 reviews on abercrombie.com
What They're Saying: "This dress is AMAZING! I tried it on when it arrived, even though I was very bloated (thank you, IBS). Even on one of my bad bloating days, this dress is very flattering and forgiving! I followed the advice of other reviewers and sized down one size and it fits perfectly. For reference, I am 5’6”, 145 lbs, and curvy in the hips/butt. Love this dress!"
Abercrombie and Fitch V-Neck Slip Midi Sweater Dress, $, available at Abercrombie and Fitch
A New Day Long Sleeve Ribbed Knit Sweater Dress
The Super Ribbed Sweater Dress
Get to know the slightly stretchy sweater dress that wears like a warm hug.
The Hype: 4.1 out of 5 stars and 122 reviews on target.com
What They're Saying: "Love this dress! Super warm and cozy and flattering on my preggo body and will still be cute when not pregnant. I think I might get in more colors!!!"
A New Day Long Sleeve Ribbed Knit Sweater Dress, $, available at Target
Nina Leonard V-Neck Balloon Sleeve Sweater Dress
The Statement Sleeve Sweater Dress
Don't let the puff-sleeve moment deflate! Keep things pumped up with this cute sweater dress with even cuter romantic balloon sleeves.
The Hype: 4.5 out of 5 stars and 55 reviews on nordstromrack.com
What They're Saying: "Very flattering on my curvy figure. The color is bright and cheery. This will be a winter staple!"
Nina Leonard V-Neck Balloon Sleeve Sweater Dress, $, available at Nordstrom Rack
Try a relaxed-but-still-slinky silhouette with this rib-knit number.
H&M Ribbed Dress, $, available at H&M
J.Crew Knit Ribbed Sweater-Dress
The Travel-Friendly Sweater Dress
Don't be afraid to pack down this baby-bell-sleeved frock for your winter getaway — it's made from a crease- and wrinkle-resistant fabric.
The Hype: 4.3 out of 5 stars and 19 reviews on jcrew.com
What They're Saying: "I have last year's version of this dress in black and couldn't wait to get this years version too! The sleeves add a nice touch. Wonderful, sturdy material and very high quality. Only drawbacks: the sleeves are a little long (like shown in the photo) and the dress runs slightly large -- I ordered a small and could have probably gotten away with an XS. I'm 5'6" ~150 lbs hourglass figure and usually wear a small or medium in dresses depending on the cut. The color is stunning as well!"
J.Crew Knit ribbed sweater-dress, $, available at J.Crew
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