The comfiest, chicest women’s sweatshirts for fall (that aren’t your college hoodie)- Motherly

For as long as I can remember, I’ve been on the hunt for the perfect grey vintage sweatshirt. One with that 70s gym class vibe that just happened to fit like a glove. One that felt soft and lived in but also didn’t have someone else’s pit stains. You know, basically the unicorn of sweatshirts. Then I watched Nobody Wants This, and lo and behold, there’s Kristen Bell rocking my white whale. So I did what any internet shopping sleuth would do, and tracked it down in minutes. The LA-based Hey Gang absolutely knocked it out of the park and checked every single one of my perfect sweatshirt bullet points. It’s not cheap, but it’s made in LA in small batches which is always my pref over fast fashion. The fit is on the snug side, so size up if you like a roomier silhouette.

I can’t recall if I found Elwood or Elwood found me, but all that matters is we’re together now and it’s a total love affair. The heavy-weight cotton is soft but sturdy, it doesn’t pill and washes just beautifully. There are a variety of great styles but I’m partial to the streetwear vibe of the slouchy Rectangle Hoodie. It’s got a boxy fit with a dropped shoulder and an oversize hood that’s finished off with a brass snap to keep the chill out. It’s giving E.T. in the best way and I’m already contemplating a second color.

I’ve got to hand it to Old Navy. They’ve really been knocking it out of the park with their styles lately. Case in point, the Bounce Fleece Half-Zip Pullover Sweatshirt. Not only is the fabric ultra cozy, it also comes in regular, tall and petite sizes. (Long-armed ladies rejoice!) The design is reminiscent of a Lulu or Spanx style but costs about 1/3 as much. Do with that what you will.

Canada’s Aritzia is a bit slept on in the US, but you can’t take two steps around Montreal without spotting the clover-like logo. I’m a big fan of their pieces and am always impressed by the quality. Of their sweatshirts, I’m currently hooked on the FormaFleece Speed Hoodie. It’s oversized without being obnoxious and the diagonal seams at the shoulders keep it from being too balloon-like. I also love the zip pockets which are far more streamlined and functional than your standard kangaroo pouch (as in you can actually use them and not risk losing whatever you store inside.)

If you’re looking for that old school, oversize college hoodie feel Abercrombie is it–but skip the women’s section and go straight for the dudes collection. The Essential Popover Hoodie has achieved icon status given its cozy fit, infinite washability and impressive selection of colors. It’s like you stole your husband’s sweatshirt but saved yourself the trouble of sneaking it away from him first.

For something new and not completely still kind of different, I offer this bubble style from the Gap. It’s mostly cotton, just the right weight for fall and looks great with both leggings and jeans. I’ve got a short torso, so it hits right at my waist but would definitely seem a bit cropped if your on the longer side. It comes in a dark navy, mauve pink, off white and my personal fave this season–washed black. Oh, and did I mention it’s on sale for 40% off?

After living in Jungmaven’s hemp Spaghetti Tank all summer long, I wanted the cozy fall equivalent. The Alpine Raglan Terry is made from a hemp and organic cotton blend and cut just right–slim but not tight and long enough to keep my back covered. Its vintage vibe pairs great with sweatpants but I also love it with some flared cords for a 70s inspired look.

Come for the kids clothes, stay for the totally aces adult styles. Primary’s Grown Ups Zip Hoodie is a top pick of mine for a variety of reasons. First, the fit is great–not too big, not too snug. It’s also made from 100% cotton so it’s comfy year-round. I also love the contrast strings for a little visual pop. Add in the great jewel hues and a stellar price and it’s basically a total win!