Knitwear might seem the only saving grace for what could be a sartorially-uninspiring season. Affectionately termed ‘sweater weather’, the winter months can challenge fashion editors, trendsetters, and novices alike because of the wet, windy, and often downright dreary climate. And yet, this style saviour can instantly reinvigorate even the simplest outfits with charming designs, tactile textures, and flattering fits.
What's the best women's knitwear?
Among your tried-and-true timeless pieces, introducing standout styles inspired by the season’s runways keeps your closet fresh and up-to-date. Having scoured the top collections for autumn/winter 2023, knitwear trends that caught our eye included the return of the knitted jumper dress, the ongoing reign of quiet luxury, and the emergence of a new colour obsession.
For more on this season’s best women’s jumpers, cardigans, and all things knitwear, just scroll…
What jumpers are in fashion?
Autumn/winter 2023 brought us powerful silhouettes, bold hues, and textural finishes, as reflected in the runway’s knitwear highlights. Here, we unveil the top 2023 knitwear trends to update your closet.
1. Seeing red
It’s all about the red hot hues this autumn, women’s jumpers included. Although guaranteed to draw eyes in this vibrant palette, it’s a 2023 knitwear trend which is perfectly wearable, particularly if incorporated into your knitwear rotation. The boxy-fit Kessy Piping Jumper is crafted from a touchably-soft knit blend in shade Warm Red, with distinctive edging, split sides, and a mock neckline to add to the sweater’s head-turning appeal. Wear with jeans for everyday dressing, or finish your next after-hours look with leather trousers and ankle boots.
2. Sweater dresses
A knitted jumper dress is as synonymous with autumn as pumpkin spiced lattes. This year, ribbed bodycon iterations proved popular across the fashion capitals. For a figure-hugging fit, look no further than our Mari Knit Roll Neck Mini Dress, a foundational piece imbued with versatility. Pair with comfortable sneakers for off-duty days, or dress up to be workwear-appropriate with polished accessories.
Lighter fabrics are ideal for the transitional months, but come winter, you may be on the hunt for something cosier. Consider something of chunky cable knit construction or a silhouette with extra coverage, such as a turtleneck or maxi-length hem.
3. Quiet luxury
Unsurprisingly, we’ve seen a continuation of the quiet luxury trend which has dominated since the start of the year. If you’re a fan of this minimalistic aesthetic, look for women’s jumpers, cardigans and such knits with clean lines, neutral colourways, and unfussy finishes like our sleek Kezia Recycled Roll Neck Jumper.
For those who aspire to live in loungewear, this trend has thankfully upgraded such basics into our everyday repertoire. We’d recommend a comfy hoodie or sweatshirt for women with non-stop schedules, like our Cable Knit Chevron Hoodie that will take you effortlessly from office to out-for-the-night simply by layering with an oversized blazer, statement jewellery, and a coveted bag.
4. Kitsch and colourful
It may not be time for a Christmas jumper yet, but already whimsical geometric prints that hint at a festive spirit are making an appearance in new collections. From fair isle patterns to intarsia designs, these colourful cardis and jumpers flaunt an energised palette for a much-needed dopamine-boost in the wintertime.
For brisk autumn walks or a cosy lunch with the ladies, jumpers like our kitschy-patterned Jolee Fairisle Jumper reinvent the jeans-and-a-nice-top combo as a winning formula. To inject this trend into your office looks or more elegant ensembles, opt to add a striking but sophisticated pop of colour with the Kitty Recycled Jumper complete with subtle pom-pom detailing.
5. Scarf dressing
Perhaps one of the hottest knitwear trends, 2023 accessory edits were enamoured with the oversized scarf. Verging on blanket proportions, the key to these upscaled accessories is choosing one that perfectly balances cool nonchalance with refinement by way of luxurious fabrics, charming details, and rich colours. Take note and wrap up in the Artisan Blanket Shawl on chillier days to accentuate your outerwear and give a fanciful edge with decorative tassels and folksy print.
When searching for on-trend pieces to add to your knitwear draw for autumn, women’s jumpers and cardigans are a wise starting choice as they layer with ease and enhance your wear of lighter tops, dresses, and jackets into the winter months, but a chunky knitted jumper dress or chic fitted skirt are welcome additions once you’ve mastered the basics.
You'll find ourwomen’s knitwear edit includes all your familiar favourites, from turtleneck tops to chunky sweater dresses, to slot seamlessly into your outfit rotation. To explore the very best men’s jumpers and cardigans from the new season, check out our dedicated menswear collection for the latest must-have styles.
Looking for editor's picks or more trend alerts? Be inspired over on our blog.