The Ultimate Knitwear Guide: The Key Styles To Wear Now
Cooler days call for more layers, making fall the perfect time to invest in classic and characterful knits. Discover the five key styles every woman should own in our definitive guide
The polo
Fashion’s obsession with polo knits shows no sign of slowing, with tastemakers taking to the streets during fashion month wearing various iterations of the preppy style. Finally, a spectator sport we can get behind! The key to keeping your look elevated is to choose polos in luxe fabrics, such as wool or cashmere, and pair them with polished separates. From our NET SUSTAIN edit and crafted using responsibly sourced Mongolian cashmere, Arch4’s ‘Bessi’ version comes in vibrant ‘Postbox Red’ cashmere that works perfectly with blue denim and neutral tailoring alike, which means you can wear it to work as well as on the weekend. Alternatively, for a sportier take, opt for a polo with collegiate stripes, such as Róhe’s oversized sweater, or keep things classic with TWP’s ivory V-neck.
The sweater vest
The beauty of a sweater vest lies in its versatility and year-round appeal – it’s perfect worn throughout the warmer months with nothing underneath, or slipped on over a long-sleeved blouse or tee on cooler days, meaning you never have to be without your favorite. Valentino Garavani’s wool-jacquard style is playfully woven with repeat dog motifs of a pug – in homage to Valentino Garavani’s love of the breed – at the front and ‘le chien de la maison’ at the back, while Guest In Residence’s version – a NET-A-PORTER exclusive – comes in a preppy argyle design. Elsewhere, The Row’s ‘Levi’ vest has been crafted in Italy from the softest cashmere and looks super-chic layered over a collared shirt.
The cardigan
The cardigan’s comeback is well and truly cemented, with celebrities, fashion editors and content creators all favoring a cozy button-down for 2025. Few cardigans are chicer than Lisa Yang’s ‘Nellia’ style, which is spun from soft cashmere. Pair the red knit with straight-leg jeans or tailored pants, socks and loafers. If you prefer something a little more relaxed, try &Daughter’s cardigan, which is knitted from Shetland wool and patterned with timeless stripes that speak to the season’s preppy trend. Alternatively, Ami Paris’s version is made from the softest merino wool and sweetly embroidered with the brand’s ‘Ami de Coeur’ motif.
The V-neck
There’s something about a V-neck sweater that feels super-elevated, making it suitable for the office or, with the right styling, a party. A classic choice, Jil Sander’s sweater is spun from gray wool and cashmere-blend for exceptional softness, while Loulou de Saison’s ‘Anzor’ style comes in burgundy cashmere and has a loose fit. Wear it with high-rise jeans, a trench coat and loafers for an easy fall look. Alternatively, reach for &Daughter’s striped version, which has been made by hand in Hawick, Scotland, from sumptuous wool and has a cool, preppy feel.
The crew neck
A crew neck is undoubtedly the most versatile piece in this knitwear roundup, but there are still a few things to consider when searching for the perfect piece – natural fibers, texture, and whether it’s something light or heavy you’re lacking when layering. Loewe’s layered cable-knit sweater (another NET-SUSTAIN highlight) is detailed with color-block panels and perfect for sprucing up your favorite jeans. Meanwhile, Suzie Kondi’s ‘Jooshi’ sweater has a slightly loose fit that’s perfect for lounging but polished enough to wear out of the house, too. If it’s something classic you’re after, consider Toteme’s crew neck in black cashmere a timeless investment.
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