HOW TO STYLE
The Ultimate Knitwear Guide
Sweater weather is better weather? Hello to chilly mornings where it’s time to wrap up, hot drink in hand, all while looking and feeling stylish and cosy in your chunky knits and oversized jumpers. From cardigans and knitwear to jumper and knit dresses, a good collection of knitwear is a wardrobe staple for the colder months. If you’re looking for some knit-spiration (we can’t help the pun!) for the new season, we’ve made you the ultimate knitwear guide with styles of knitwear you can style, how and when to wear it and how layering is your best friend when it comes to timeless staples that are a must-have in every winter wardrobe.
If you’re looking for a wardrobe refresh and knitwear update, let’s discuss what your options for staple pieces are for every event, from casual to formal.
Read on to learn about the differences in knitwear and how you can wear each knit depending on the occasion and style.
JUMPERS
A jumper is typically a long sleeve garment and usually knitted or made of a jersey fabric or cotton too. Because of this, they’re easy to dress down for a more casual look with jeans or leggings and trainers.
What to Wear with a Jumper
Think of a jumper as the casual knit that can take you from day to night effortlessly. For a daytime look, style fitted or oversized jumpers with leggings or slim fit trousers with trainers and minimal jewellery. Switch it up for the weekend and evenings with skinny jeans, heels and some statement jewellery, like big earrings and a chunky bracelet.
Cardigans
Cardigans are most likely to be your go-to layering essential because of their opening in the front. They are knitted garments that come with zipper or buttons that allow you to close or open the front.
How to Style a Cardigan
Cardigans are versatile pieces that show off feminine details to any outfit. A hip-length cardigan over jeans and a nice top is a stylish and delicate alternative to throwing on a thin jacket. Big button details with long sleeves are always versatile for all year around.
Longline and chunky knit cardigans are perfect for transitional weather and look great over any dresses. They add an extra layer of warmth and shape to lengthen your legs and compliment your dress.
Knitwear vs Knit Vests
Not a lot to explain here, a classic knit is clothing that is woven and can vary in the type of knit loops and size of the yarn. Knit vests are sleeveless and are great for layering over blouses to show off the sleeves and collars.
How to style Knitwear
The options are endless when it comes to styling knitwear. A statement print looks great with minimal jewellery and classic bottoms, whereas a neutral print or no print can be worn with printed trousers and statement jewellery. If you’re looking for options, this seasons floral prints and animal print classic are now ready to shop here.
A fashionista favourite is a knit styled over your favourite summer dress for a skirt and knit combo. Add a belt to cinch the waist or the emphasise the ‘fake waistband’. Don’t be afraid to shop dresses for the new season too.
Knit vest are making a comeback this season and are great for work over your usual blouses to change up the look for the colder weather. Who doesn’t love re-wearing their favourite pieces?
Knitwear Sets
For the ultimate knitwear look, a co-ordinating knit set will include a knit top with matching bottoms that can be leggings, trousers, shorts or even a skirt.
How to Style a Knit Set
This is your secret to an effortless look that you can’t go wrong with and don’t be afraid of going matchy-matchy, that’s the point! Top and bottom sorted, all you need is some dainty jewellery and trainers for a weekend look. Add an extra style layer, like a trench coat and you instantly look chic.
A more recent knit set we’re seeing is the cardigan and camisole set which can be style with skinnies and trainers for a weekend ready outfit. The camisole is perfect for when it’s a little warm mid-day too. Shop Izabel’s sets here and keep an eye out for more to come this season.
Knit Dresses vs Jumper Dresses
The main difference between a knit dress and a jumper dress is the material and shape. Knit dresses tend to be continuous knitted threads that you can find in different shapes and styles, whereas jumper dresses are more likely to be a cotton fabric in a classic oversized jumper shape.
How to Wear a Jumper Dress
If you’re looking for a more casual dress style for the colder seasons, a jumper dress is the perfect throw-on-and-go. Wear your jumper dresses with white trainers for an off-duty look or ankle boots for coffee date.
How to Wear a Knit Dress
Definitely our favourite knit, knit dresses are the perfect mix of formal and dressed up while keeping you weather appropriate and warm. A long sleeve knit dress with heels is all you need for a formal dinner or event. Throw on a fur coat or shawl over your shoulder if you need an extra layer for the colder nights.
Need some inspo? Have a look at our knitwear collection and find styling tips from fashion influencers, stylists and customers below, where you can see how they styled it!
5 Essential Knits for Your Knitwear Collection
1. A Classic Colour Block Knit
2. A Striped Knit Poncho
3. A Coastal Inspired Striped Jumper
