Pullovers

A pullover is a knit garment worn on the upper body that is pulled over the head to be worn, rather than opened at the front. In common usage, pullovers refer to sweaters, sometimes called jumpers in British English. They come in a variety of necklines, with crew neck, V-neck, and turtleneck among the most common.

Construction and design: Most pullovers are knitted in stockinette or rib stitches and may be plain or patterned. They can be lightweight for layering or heavy for warmth. Sleeves are typically set-in or raglan; necklines may be ribbed for shape, with cuffs and waistband in rib knit. Some styles incorporate plackets or buttons (Henley-style), cables, or other textures.

Materials and care: Common materials include wool (merino, cashmere, Shetland) and cotton, plus synthetic blends such as acrylic or polyester. Care depends on material: wool often requires gentle washing or dry cleaning, while cotton and synthetics are usually machine-washable. To preserve fit, follow care labels; lay flat to dry and avoid high heat to reduce shrinking and misshaping.

Variants and use: Pullovers are versatile for layering—a mid-layer under jackets in cold weather or a standalone top in milder conditions. Style variations include cable-knit, Fair Isle, argyle, and plain stockinette. In sports or active wear, lightweight pullovers serve as warm-up or performance garments.

History and terminology: The term "pullover" distinguishes garments without a front opening from cardigans and other front-opening sweaters. The broader term "sweater" originated in the United States in the 19th century. Knitwear has a long global history, with modern yarns and machines expanding the range of weights, fabrics, and care options.