No matter how much I try to keep my legs bare and cling to my warm-weather wardrobe, the reality is that autumn is on its way. Before I know it, cosy knits and jeans will be my daily uniform once again. New-season knitwear is always the first thing to hit the shop floors in September, and right now, whether you're heading out to shop IRL or browsing online, jumpers and cardigans are available by the bucketload. Of course, whenever there's an influx of a certain piece, it's important to determine which styles are worth it. And that's where I come in.
Last winter, we saw the rise in popularity of the striped—or Breton—knit. Aided by influencers curating their monochromatic grids, American designer Totême created a cult following for a Breton sweater in any shape or form. Its oversized polo-neck sold out many times, but if you missed it the first time around, fear not—its back again this season. The industry's love for head-to-toe colour has definitely influenced all the new jewel-toned numbers on the high street this season, and if you want to channel your inner Jennifer Lopez circa 1999, the '90s cropped cardigan is back in its most unapologetic form. (Think lurex textures and peekaboo buttons.)
So do you want to know which five knitwear trends are set to be everywhere this winter? Scroll down to have a read and shop them now.
1. FLUFFY KNITS
The cosiest of fluffy jumpers are having a moment both on the high street and in the collections of key designers like Totême and Marni. The colour palette of these snuggly knits is grown-up and elegant—cream, tobacco and grey marl are dominating. But Marni has also throw in some colour for good measure. Pair one of these knits with your go-to jeans or leggings and boots for a stylish everyday outfit.
My absolute favourite on the high street right now.
Finding the perfect shade of brown is no mean feat. This is it!
A crisp cream knit is a forever favourite. Pair with navy pinstripe trousers for a wardrobe refresh.
A bright jumper paired with white jeans and brown suede ankle boots is my autumn uniform.
I was particularly drawn to the styling here. Tuck it into a tonal pair of Frankie Shop tailored cargo pants. You won't look back.
2. JEWEL-TONE KNITS
Rich, jewel-like tones have replaced softer pastels this autumn, and they definitely pack a punch. In contrast to the monochrome stripes and classic taupe funnel-neck jumpers that have become a firm fixture in the wardrobes of Instagram's best dressed, vibrant shades from ruby to sapphire to citrine finally offer something for the maximalists out there. Wear with matching separates in contrasting textures such as leather or tailored wool trousers, and add chunky gold earrings for polish.
This berry knit from COS is one of the best on the high street. Get it before it goes!
H&M cashmere is on point this season, and cobalt blue is always a winner.
If you're looking to invest in the softest cashmere on the high street, COS wins, hands down.
Just the best green.
Fear not—yellow works surprisingly well in winter and looks super luxe when paired with camel.
3. STRIPED KNITS
It was virtually impossible to miss the Totême striped-jumper craze that filled our Insta feeds last winter. The simple A-line sweater became one of the cult buys of the season, and despite its saturation of the market, it's back once again. The high street has become one of the best places to buy into this look: Arket's nautical wide-collared Breton and Zara's navy zip-up sweater are two key shapes to pick up.
If you didn't buy it then, buy it now.
I love how long this sweater is. Once I add black leggings and knee-high boots, I'll be wearing this look on repeat.
This is worth its weight in cashmere. Be sure to buy pheromone strips, too. This is not a drill.
Between the ribbed knit, the A-line shape and the length, this jumper is perfection.
Upgrade your basic Breton with this wide-collar top from Arket.
4. '90S KNITS
Not all knitwear serves its most obvious purpose—keeping us warm—but who cares when you can look as good as you will in one of these '90s-inspired peekaboo cardis? It's just one of many '90s trends to be making a comeback this season, and whether or not you wear something underneath is up to you. Fashion lovers Kendall Jenner, Chiara Ferragni and Leonie Hanne have all been spotted in the teensy-weensy cardigans from Jacquemus. However, there are several more affordable versions (ahem, the button-down cardigan by Mango) that cover a little more flesh. Go the whole whack and style with a pair of this season's cargo pants and add polish with a pair of pointy slingbacks.
Create an easy daytime look by adding grey tailored trousers and your favourite white trainers.
You're looking at the twin set of 2022.
Wear with a pair of high-waisted slacks to balance out the minimal coverage on top.
Buy into this trend with a little more coverage.
Perfect layered over your summer slip dresses.
5. GRANNY KNITS
Sometimes your trusty black cashmere jumper won't be the one you want to reach for. For autumn/winter 2022, the oversized cardigan has been reworked in many iterations. Last season, Gucci was one of the first to revamp this classic, adorning this oversized cardigan in jumbo GG logos. Not only has the brand revisited it again in acid brights, but other designers have followed suit. My favourites include a collegiate-inspired number from Maje and Mango's diamond-shaped print. I will be layering this style over leggings and with riding boots when the temperature drops.
The soft, peachy hues are everything.
We're not going for subtlety here.
Add a preppy skirt and Prada loafers.
Style with leather trousers to give this traditional pattern a modern feel.
Houndstooth is timeless.
Next up, how to style your summer wardrobe favourites for autumn.
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