We’re not sure how knitwear became so crucial in a stylish modern wardrobe, but we’re welcoming it with open, wool-clad arms.
Traditional animal-sourced yarns were overtaken a few decades ago by ones that were cheaper, lighter and faster to produce. But somewhere in there we realised the quality and longevity of natural fibres and it returned to favour. Designers too, embraced new possibilities for dying, and weaving them, delivering more exciting pieces as part of seasonal collections.
Now, collections landing are embracing wool from finer but hard-wearing sources like Merino, newer blends like Perino (possum-merino) and harder to find yarns like soft and fluffy Alpaca, as well as traditionally luxurious cashmere. Some are made modern by adding a touch of nylon or spandex to ensure longevity of shape and finish.
Of course you just can’t go past the fact knitwear, particularly that made of these aforementioned yarns, is just so delicious to wear when it’s cold outside. Naturally insulating, breathable, moisture wicking and odor resistant, it makes sense and looks stunning.
Of course from a smarter shopping POV, well-made pieces also provide a value conscious choice given a quality piece will last for years to come with proper care.
Given the abundance of options now available, naturally, trends emerge. This season there are a handful of common approaches that bring a fresh feeling to styling knitwear for autumn and winter.
Here’s what to choose for your knitwear 2026:
Collars with a zip
Perhaps the most dominant trend is collared knits, either with a zip or buttoned placket. We love the instant polish they provide any outfit. Oversized funnel-neck styles are sometimes combined with this approach, weaving in the huge and high neckline that’s also being seen in outerwear right now .
The cardigan
Once considered a bit too twee to be cool, the cardigan’s comeback is well and truly cemented this season with its abundance of trim styles in modern pastels – think pink, lilac, aqua and sage. Worn fitted – but not tight – with looser, tailored trousers and loafers or wide-leg blue denim jeans.
Knit layering
Above: Caroline Sills Brushed Cashmere Cardigan
The runways had this trend in spades, doubling up unexpected shapes like a vest and cardigan sewn together, or a crew neck worn with another in the same, or a different colour looped around the shoulders, preppy-style (see here). It gives you license to use a knit you already own as an accessory, and provides extra warmth if the temperature drops without adding a jacket.
Stripes in unexpected colour combinations
Stripes are also massive for winter, in different sizes and colour pairings. This one by Ruby wraps up all the best bits about a desirable stripe: Rendered in a slightly slouchy, boxy shape made of soft, fluffy mohair and combining the slightly unexpected by brilliant combination of baby pink, maroon and grey.
Classic crew
The minimalist crew neck is perhaps the hardest worker in your wardrobe. The versatile style can be worn alone or layered under a blazer, both ways working well with the wide-leg tailored trousers everywhere right now. A sightly loose fit is ideal for comfort but polished enough to head out in too. We are drawn to the surprise colour detail in this option from Kiwi knitwear icons Standard Issue.
