Winter is the time of knit clothing and accessories, so style it up!
It’s timeless. It’s stylish. It’s warm! Knitwear always makes the perfect addition to your winter wardrobe because it’s as practical as it is attractive. It feels cozy and has character to it. Plus, there are so many ways to wear it, and so many articles of clothing and accessories that can be made from knitwear. Is it any wonder that the Fashion Institute of Technology offers knitwear as a course of study and even has it as a category in its annual signature fashion show?
When it comes to knitwear, every person might have a different reason for liking it. They might like the unique texture it provides, or the way it layers nicely to add so much interest to an outfit. They might like the comfortable softness of the natural fibers used for knitwear—cotton, wool, or even cashmere—or the variety of patterns that can be created through knitting, such as cable stitch, a rib stitch, a stockinette stitch, or many others.
So, if you want to incorporate knitwear into your winter wardrobe, what are some of the best ways to do it?
Here are some tried-and-true classic ideas:
A classic sweater is the easiest piece of knitwear to pull off. A crewneck or turtleneck sweater, especially a thicker one with heavier stitch, can be worn over a simple T-shirt; if you go with a cardigan, you can layer it over an Oxford button-up shirt or a blouse.
Winterize a lighter outfit with a knit scarf or a knit beanie. A simple flannel shirt and jeans or a thermal henley with corduroys feel more autumnal than wintery, but as soon as you add knit accessories, they look and feel much cozier.
Let the texture speak for itself. If you want to pair your knit piece with articles of clothing the same color—whether it’s black, white, gray, navy, etc.—the distinctive texture of the knitwear will break up the singularity and add interest, so you don’t look too matchy-matchy.
Those are some classic options, but maybe you’re interested in trying something a little more daring, something with an element of surprise that will make you stand out. In that case, you can try…
Try an oversized cardigan for an especially cozy look. Just remember to pair it with a well-tailored pair of trouser to avoid looking sloppy.
A knit poncho or cape is good for achieving a bohemian look, especially if you incorporate statement jewelry into your outfit.
Mix the cozy factor of knitwear with something sleek, such as leather or silk, for an element of contrast.
Finally, invest in high-quality knitwear, as poorly made knitwear can unravel or lose its shape easily. Inspect all knitwear closely before buying to ensure that the stitching is all consistent and even, without any snags or pilling. All cuffs, collars, and hems are neatly finished, and seams are reinforced so there’s no risk of unraveling. Finally, look for natural yarn—such as cotton, wool, alpaca—rather than synthetic materials such as acrylic.
Now bundle up, stay warm, and look good!
