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What Are ‘Donegal’ Sweaters? Discover the Cozy Wool Style Everyone Is Obsessed With

The Irish staple is suddenly trending, and these vintage-inspired picks nail the look

HAMBURG, GERMANY - OCTOBER 16: Laura Noltemeyer is seen wearing a long straight tailored wool coat in chocolate brown with button fastening by Sézane; high-waisted wide-leg pleated pants by Sézane; a textured cable knit sweater in a brown tone by Sézane; a suede asphalt grey shoulder bag with a woven leather structure by Les Visionnaires; square brown sunglasses with gold detailing by Bottega Veneta; gold statement earrings with a green stone detail by Mango; her dark hair is in a low ponytail on October 16, 2025 in Hamburg, Germany. (Photo by Moritz Scholz/Getty Images)
Moritz Scholz/Getty Images

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When I visited Ireland, I noticed a few things: the rich green rolling hills, calm energy and Donegal sweaters. The last one seemed to be an Irish staple. People of all ages and demographics were wearing the toasty wool sweaters that have an interesting, lived-in speckled texture. I adored how each design I saw looked like it came from a vintage store or was recently discovered in the back of a grandfather’s closet — they all have an inherent special charm.

These Donegal sweater styles are finally making their way stateside, and they offer much more than antique charm. The wool is extra warm yet breathable and very durable. A Donegal sweater can and will last in your closet for decades. Many designs are an investment, but if you look hard enough, you can find some gems under $100. I did the work for you and found 10 gorgeous Donegal sweaters to add to your winter wardrobe. Get ready to cozy up in your new favorite sweater.

Donegal Sweaters That Look Like Dreamy Vintage Finds

1. Go Oversized: To up the cozy factor, opt for an oversized Donegal sweater, like this chunky turtleneck that functions as a wearable blanket.

2. Starry Night: The delicate white speckles pop against the deep navy hue of Lands’ End’s Donegal sweater, mimicking a gorgeous winter sky.

3. Cardigan Version: For a sweater you can fully wrap yourself up in, go for this Donegal-inspired Quince cardigan. It’s begging to be worn to a cozy coffee shop.

Charlotte Groeneveld seen wearing knit with pattern, brown bag, khaki pants outside Altuzarra during Paris Fashion Week Womenswear Spring Summer 2020 on September 28, 2019 in Paris, France.

Related: Fair Isle Sweaters Will Be This Winter’s Biggest Knitwear Trend — Shop the Look

4. Size Inclusivity: Anthropologie ensures everyone can partake in the Donegal sweater trend with this plus-sized striped beauty. The little wool flecks add boundless character.

5. Layering Staple: The slightly cropped length on this fan-favorite Abercrombie sweater makes it ideal for layering, especially if you love preppy looks.

6. Throwback: Quarter zip — or rather, quarter button — sweaters feel inherently vintage. Add the signature Donegal weave, and you get a knit that looks like a thrift-store treasure.

7. Lounge Around: Donegal sweaters tend to feel a bit elevated, but this one is perfect for your couch rot days, complete with extra soft fabric and a speckled finish.

8. Sparkle and Shine: This donegal sweater twinkles in the light thanks to sparkles specks. (They’re expertly placed glitter!) Throw this on for a night out and prepare to dance your worries away.

9. Gym Buddy: Head to your workout in style with a Donegal quarter-zip pullover. The stretch knit will keep you comfortable whether you’re working out or enjoying a simple brunch with friends.

10. Little Details: The puffed sleeves on this fitted thermal Donegal sweater add a feminine flair that instantly dresses up any outfit.

sweaters

Related: It May Be January, But These On-Sale Sweaters Have Us Dreaming of Spring

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