The Ultimate Knitwear Guide: 5 Styles To Wear In Spring And Beyond
Lighter days mean lighter layers, making spring the perfect time to invest in – or stock up on – 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 responsibly crafted in Scotland using lower-impact materials, &Daughter’s ‘Aoife’ version comes in vibrant poppy red 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 Arch4’s ‘Victoria’ style – another NET SUSTAIN highlight – or Theory’s rugby-coded shirt.
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 shirt or tee on cooler days, meaning you never have to be without your favorite. Ganni’s intarsia-knit style is playfully woven with a sweet bow motif and one of the brand’s signature catchphrases, while Loewe’s cable-knit version is traced with sporty blue and white stripes. Elsewhere, Alix of Bohemia’s ‘Quentin Cardinal’ vest from our NET SUSTAIN edit has been crafted in Peru and has an authentic homespun feel.
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 Arch4’s style from our NET SUSTAIN edit, which is spun from exceptionally soft organic cashmere and comes with a matching tank. Pair the marled-gray style with straight-leg jeans or a midi skirt and ballet flats. If you prefer something a little more romantic, try Dôen’s ‘Freya’ cardigan, which is inspired by styles from the ’60s and comes in a soft ‘Rosewater’ shade of pink. Alternatively, Ami Paris’s version is made from the softest merino wool and sweetly embroidered with the brand’s ‘Ami de Cœur’ motif. Both are highlights from our NET SUSTAIN edit and crafted using lower-impact materials.
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, Toteme’s sweater is spun from navy cashmere for exceptional softness, while High Sport’s breathable cotton style comes in a bright red shade and slouchy fit. Wear it loosely tucked into faded blue jeans, then add a trench coat and boat shoes for an easy spring look. Alternatively, reach for &Daughter’s cable-knit version from our NET SUSTAIN edit, which has been responsibly made by hand in Hawick, Scotland, from a sumptuous blend of merino wool and cashmere. The striped V-neck and cuffs nod to vintage cricket styles and lend a cool, preppy feel.
The crew neck
A crew neck is undoubtably 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. Another Tomorrow’s oversized recycled-cashmere and wool-blend sweater (another NET-SUSTAIN highlight) is perfect for those in-between spring days when it’s warm enough to leave home without a jacket, but you still need some coverage. Meanwhile, Suzie Kondi’s ‘Kismet’ sweater in army-green cashmere has a slightly loose fit that’s perfect for lounging but polished enough to wear to the office, too. If it’s something classic you’re after, consider Jil Sander’s crew neck a timeless investment.
To extend the life of your much-loved jumpers and cardigans, read our dedicated knitwear care and repair guide, with expert tips from Layla Sargent, founder and CEO of specialist care-and-repair site The Seam.