Cosy knitwear can seem like less of a fashion trend and more of a winter wardrobe essential - but not this season. Forget frumpy numbers and novelty knits, here’s a guide to autumn/winter knitwear trends to ensure those staple sweaters and cosy cardigans see you through the season in style.
Modern minimalism
Some of the best looks involve the least work, but if you’re really struggling to put an outfit together, bear in mind that less really can be more.
For autumn/winter Stella McCartney demonstrated this look perfectly by pairing an oversized jumper with wide-leg trousers, all in the head-to-toe chic shade of winter white.
The trick here is to look for pieces that have very little going on but fit perfectly and are made from luxurious fabrics.
Highland fling
The trend for all things heritage has been a huge look this season.
For the classic dresser, this is the easiest way to update your knitwear look for winter. Look for cable-knit numbers in timeless hues of camel, cream and navy blue.
Hobbs have a great selection of knitwear that will transcend the seasons for the investment shopper. Feeling more adventurous? Look for plaid patterns and argyle knits; perfect with tailored black trousers for a smarter, more trend-led look.
Borrow from your boyfriend
If you’ve yet to stray towards your other half’s side of the wardrobe, now is the time to delve into his jumpers.
Some of the best pieces of knitwear can be found in menswear departments. Think oversized sweaters and long-line cardigans, perfect for layering. Plus, it’s a nifty shortcut to nailing this season’s androgynous trend.
Topshop have cottoned onto this and you’ll now find oversized boy-shaped knits intended for the fairer sex available in store.
Brighten up
Wearing a brightly coloured jumper can be an ideal antidote to dark winter days.
Jewel colours of emerald green, sapphire blue and amethyst purple were the story of the season at the autumn/winter runway shows.
For a more outgoing option, you can’t go wrong with a shade of orange: head to COS for their chunky knit standout option. These sunny shades will see you right through to the spring season.
Forties finds
If you’re feeling like rocking a retro look, there’s a simple style solution. Forties inspired get-ups were big news on the runways for fall and indeed next spring too.
Translate the trend to your twin sets by simply emphasising the waist. Team a long-line cardigan with a thin leather waist belt worn over trousers or, for real vintage appeal, try a pencil skirt.
Oasis’s cream button-up cardigan would make an elegant addition to your wardrobe.
Layering love
Take a trip down to the high street and you can’t fail to notice that the stores have gone into knitwear overload.
Where once knitwear was confined to jumpers, cardies and the scarf set, there’s a whole array of items on offer. For the ultimate in fashion kudos wear them all together; an oversized cardigan can fill in for a coat over a fitted sweater, add a knitted mini skirt with tights, a pair of leg warmers and finish off with a chunky snood.
House of Fraser’s layered poncho and snood provide the perfect example of a way to wear the layered look.
