The 10 Cutest Fall Sweaters for Less Than $30 (Plus Local Seattle Faves)

It’s officially fall, y’all, and that means our favorite fashion forecast is back — sweater weather has arrived! If your kids’ wardrobe is in need of an update but your wallet needs a break, I’ve got a baker's dozen of new fall sweaters that give all the autumn vibes. 

I’ve scoped out the cutest, warmest finds of the season, all for less than $30 — think cozy knits, sweet sweaters and cuddly cardigans galore. From adorable tiny tot threads to cool kid-approved designs and on-trend gear even tweens won’t scoff at, these cold-weather faves will keep them toasty in style, without breaking the bank, all the way to spring. 

Embroidered holiday sweater 

Get your lil’ pumpkin all dressed up for the fall festivities with this adorable sweater by Lauren Conrad, available in three holiday-ready motifs. We are “falling” for the minimalist text embroidery and chunky knit texture in organic jersey cotton, and it comes in baby or older kid sizes for matching sibling ‘fits. Cost: $20.48 

Ciao Paris sweater 

Ooh la la! Take their sweater game up a notch with some European flair: This simple but chic unisex cream knit, made with recycled cotton and embroidered with cobalt text, will have people thinking you scooped it up at a high-end Parisian baby boutique. Cost: $25.90 

Mushroom cardigan

Keep your little one cozy and cheery in this downy cardigan with the cutest woodland mushroom motif in bright pinks and reds. The button-down closure makes it a versatile layering piece for those long stroller walks and crisp autumn mornings. Cost: $14.99 

“Where the Wild Things Are” sweater

Your little monster will go wild for this delightful pullover with designs inspired by the classic storybook. Two gender-neutral options include a teal blue and olive green knit, embroidered with beloved story quotes. Cost: $20

Varsity cardigan

You’re not ready to send them off to college, but that’s no reason not to indulge in some collegiate vibes! Get yours looking sharp in preppy style with this navy V-neck cardigan, embroidered with varsity-themed designs. Cost: $12.73  

Fox print sweater  

British brand Next is known for its colorful, affordable styles for the whole family. I'm obsessed with the loveable fox print on this fantastically fluffy knit crewneck in a chic and gender-neutral beige palette, in sizes for infant and little kids. Cost: $29–$33

Bow detail sweater 

Got a girly girl on your hands? She’ll go ga-ga for this dainty, cotton-candy-soft sweater in cream or pastel pink knit, adorned with precious three-dimensional bows. It’s perfect for holiday tea parties. Cost: $29.99 

Minecraft checkered sweatshirt 

Your kids probably haven’t gotten tired of yelling “chicken jockey” — but you might be tired of the garish Minecraft tops they refuse to take off. Enter this fleecy-warm crewneck in a tasteful dark-green check and subtle gamer graphic that’s cool enough for them, yet nice enough for dinner at grandma’s. Cost: $18

Studio Ghibli sweatshirt  

I love Studio Ghibli’s comforting, wholesome animation, and if your kids are also into its popular movies (sch as “My Neighbor Totoro”), they’ll love these cozy tops from Uniqlo’s recent artist collab. The sweatshirts are reliably made with the same quality the trendy Japanese brand is known for, and feature whimsical, anime-themed designs. Cost: $29.90 

Stay Cozy sweater 

Getting dressed on cold school mornings just got cozier! She’ll be snug and stylish all day long in this cuddly fall-mandate sweater, with its fun fuzzy knit and delish pastel shades. It’s also available in a yummy hot chocolate motif. Cost: $22

Go (affordably) local 

Love the idea of shopping local, but struggling with the price points? We’ve scouted out three cute, warm and affordable options from independent Seattle-area retailers, for unique, quality pieces without the sticker shock: 

Corn dog print sweatshirt  

A Seattle landmark for nearly 75 years, The Original Children’s Shop in Madison Park prides itself on sourcing ethically made, high-quality pieces from European or American companies. Kids and parents alike will adore the silly corn dog print on this comfy sweatshirt, made from organic cotton French terry (it also comes in a festive snowy pine version). Cost: $40

Marble pullover hoodie 

The concept for Edmonds-based brand Little Bipsy was born when local mom and founder Brittani Little was frustrated by the lack of modern, fashionable kids’ style options after having her firstborn. No cutesy motifs or primary colors here. You’ll find minimalist basics for the cool-kid crowd, with edgy, streetwear-inspired vibes, like this funky pullover in a hip marble print. Cost: $34

Belt bag sweatshirt 

Belt bags are all the rage for the grown-ups, and now the small-sized set can get in on the action with a bold purple sweatshirt that has the crossbody bag conveniently sewn on! The functional piece, from local Columbia City shop Chrysanthemum, has a zipper pouch to stash snacks, lip balms or pet rocks in on-the-go style. Cost: $36

Note: Prices listed were current at time of publication, but may fluctuate with sales and promotions.