I’m a Former Sweater Designer, and These Are the 8 You Should Buy Before Nordstrom's Sale Ends

As a former sweater designer, I’m extremely critical of the sweaters I purchase. I look for thick yarn that’s tightly woven to prevent snagging and a fabric that’s soft on the skin — because no one likes a scratchy sweater. The silhouette should be unique enough that you actually want to reach for it, but still timeless enough that it won't end up in the donation pile after phasing out of the trend cycle.

My favorite place to shop for quality sweaters? Nordstrom, and there’s no better time to pick up a few knits than right now while styles are up to 50 percent off during the retailer’s Half-Yearly Sale. The options can be overwhelming to sift through, so I put my old sweater designer hat on and rounded up eight of the best sweater deals from Steve Madden, Topshop, and more — and they’re all under $100. But hurry, the sale ends on January 8.

8 Under-$100 Editor-Approved Sweaters :

• Treasure and Bond One-Shoulder Thermal Knit Sweater, $47 (Originally $59)
• Nordstrom Cashmere V-Neck Sweater, $75 (Originally $149)
• Topshop Funnel-Neck Rib Sweater, $50 (Originally $77)
• Steve Madden Cay Johnny Collar Cable-Knit Sweater, $62 (Originally $89)
• Open Edit Cable-Knit Cropped Cardigan, $35 (Originally $69)
• 1.State Balloon-Sleeve Rib Sweater, $47 (Originally $79)
• Treasure and Bond Marled Half-Zip Sweater, $48 (Originally $69)
• Nic+Zoe Cheerful Chill Sweater, $89 (Originally $148)

Steve Madden Cay Johnny Collar Cable-Knit Sweater

When many of us think of our favorite sweater, it’s usually a long-sleeve crewneck or turtleneck style. While these are great staples, unique silhouettes like this Steve Madden Cay Johnny Collar Cable-Knit Sweater are a good way to switch things up. It immediately caught my eye with its chunky cable-knit stitching, posh polo collar, V-neckline, and exaggerated balloon sleeves, but is still classic enough that you wouldn’t get tired of it. The light beige sweater comes in sizes XS through L It falls a few inches below the natural waist, making for a more cropped length that pairs well with high-waisted jeans or trousers.

Open Edit Cable-Knit Cropped Cardigan

Open Edit’s Cable-Knit Cropped Cardigan is my favorite type of sweater to reach for in winter, offering maximum versatility when it comes to styling and layering, plus a thick knit that’s sure to keep you warm. This particular style features a crew neckline, close-to-the-body fit, cropped silhouette that falls at the waist, and ribbed finishings on the cuff and hem. There’s also a button-front closure that can be styled open or closed. It comes in gray and tan, plus sizes XXS through XL — but they’re selling out fast.

Topshop Funnel-Neck Rib Sweater

I’ve said it before, and I’ll say it again: Topshop’s Funnel-Neck Rib Sweater has been one of my most-worn sweaters since purchasing it. I get tons of compliments every time I wear it, and the quality is truly unmatched. And now, you can get the classic black version for 35 percent off during Nordstrom's Half-Yearly Sale. It’s available in sizes XS through L and features an oversized fit that fully covers the butt, making it great for styling with leggings. It has slouchy balloon sleeves with an exaggerated drop shoulder, stretchy fabric that’s easy to take on and off, and a chic funnel neck for extra warmth.

Shop more of my cozy sweater picks from Nordstrom's 2024 Half-Yearly Sale, below.

Nic+Zoe Cheerful Chill Sweater

Treasure and Bond Marled Half-Zip Sweater

Treasure and Bond One-Shoulder Thermal Knit Sweater