Finding the perfect sweater in Chicago can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack – a very stylish, very warm haystack. This city boasts a diverse range of boutiques, department stores, and independent designers, each offering unique sweater styles to suit every taste and budget. This guide will help navigate the Windy City's knitwear scene, showcasing 25 of the best places to find your perfect sweater, from classic cashmere to chunky cable knits.
Where to Find the Best Sweaters in Chicago: A Curated Selection
This list is categorized to make finding your dream sweater easier, whether you're looking for luxury, affordability, or a specific style.
Luxury & High-End Sweaters
- Barneys New York (Closed): While sadly closed, Barneys was a cornerstone for luxury sweaters. Their curated selection included iconic designers and unique finds. (Note: We include this as a historical reference to the high-end sweater market in Chicago)
- Neiman Marcus: This iconic department store carries a vast collection of designer sweaters, from classic cashmere to avant-garde designs. Expect to find brands like Brunello Cucinelli, Loro Piana, and Vince.
- Saks Fifth Avenue: Another luxury department store staple, Saks offers a similar high-end selection to Neiman Marcus, featuring renowned designers and impeccable quality.
- Intermix: This boutique offers a curated collection of contemporary designer clothing, including stylish and luxurious sweaters. Look for trendy silhouettes and unique textures.
Mid-Range & Designer Boutiques
- Knotted: This stylish boutique features a range of curated brands offering unique sweater styles with a focus on contemporary design.
- Henri Bendel (Closed): Similar to Barneys, Henri Bendel offered a stylish mid-range selection. (Note: Included for historical context).
- Elizabeth Street: Known for its carefully selected collection of independent designers, Elizabeth Street often features unique and stylish knitwear.
- Shopbop (Online): While not a physical store, Shopbop offers a vast selection of designer and mid-range sweaters with convenient online shopping and shipping.
Affordable & Everyday Sweaters
- H&M: A reliable source for trendy and affordable sweaters, H&M offers a wide variety of styles, colors, and materials.
- Zara: Similar to H&M, Zara provides stylish and budget-friendly sweater options, often incorporating the latest fashion trends.
- Uniqlo: This Japanese retailer is known for its high-quality basics, including simple yet stylish sweaters at reasonable prices.
- Aritzia: A Canadian retailer with a presence in Chicago, Aritzia offers trendy sweaters at a mid-range price point.
- Target: Surprisingly, Target often features high-quality and stylish sweaters at incredible prices, especially during seasonal sales.
Specialty Stores & Independent Designers
- The Chicago Knittery: This local shop often features handmade sweaters from local designers, providing unique and high-quality pieces.
- Local Craft Fairs: Chicago hosts many craft fairs throughout the year, offering opportunities to find one-of-a-kind handmade sweaters. Check local event listings for details.
- Etsy (Online): Explore Etsy for a wide selection of handcrafted sweaters from independent designers worldwide.
Sweaters by Style
Chunky Knit Sweaters
- Urban Outfitters: This retailer often features chunky knit sweaters, perfect for layering on those cold Chicago days.
- Madewell: Madewell sweaters are known for their quality and classic styles, including various chunky knit options.
Cashmere Sweaters
- Nordstrom: Nordstrom carries a wide selection of cashmere sweaters, from simple crewnecks to more elaborate designs.
- Banana Republic: While not exclusively high-end, Banana Republic offers reasonably priced cashmere sweaters in classic styles.
Oversized Sweaters
- ASOS (Online): ASOS is an online retailer with a wide selection of clothing, including trendy oversized sweaters.
- Free People: Free People often features flowy, oversized sweaters in unique patterns and textures.
Cardigans
- J.Crew: J.Crew is known for its classic cardigans, available in a wide range of styles and colors.
- Old Navy: Old Navy offers a range of affordable cardigans that are perfect for everyday wear.
Unique & Designer Sweaters
- Local Boutiques in Wicker Park/Bucktown: This neighborhood is known for its eclectic mix of boutiques, many of which feature unique and designer sweaters. Explore the area to uncover hidden gems.
Tips for Finding Your Perfect Chicago Sweater
- Consider the weather: Chicago winters are harsh, so invest in a warm and durable sweater.
- Think about your style: Choose a sweater that complements your personal style and wardrobe.
- Check for sales: Many stores offer sales throughout the year, especially during seasonal transitions.
- Read reviews: Before buying a sweater online, check customer reviews to ensure quality and fit.
- Try it on: Whenever possible, try on sweaters before purchasing to ensure a proper fit and comfortable feel.
By exploring these diverse options, you're sure to find the perfect sweater to keep you warm and stylish throughout Chicago's chilly seasons. Remember to check store websites and social media for updated inventory and sales. Happy sweater hunting!
