Last Updated on October 27, 2021
The biggest knitwear trends of 2021 prove that you don’t have to dread the cold winter weather if you have the right pieces on.
I’m not a fan of cold weather, but since we were deprived of being able to feel it outside last year, I’m taking this year as an opportunity to embrace the low temperature and work on levelling up my knitwear game.
READ MORE: 15 Fashionable Festive Knits You Won’t Regret Wearing
If you plan to do the same, you can use our guide to AW21’s knitwear trends to inform your choices.
This season, we’re not just talking festive jumpers – knitted dresses, skirts and cut out sweaters all feature in the hit list, proving knitwear really can be chic.
Here are the biggest trends to look out for this season.
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Knitted Vests
As well as quilted vests, knitted vests are also taking over for autumn winter this year.
They can help keep you warm now, but you can still wear them when the weather’s warmer too.
Polo Knit Vest, £65, & Other Stories – buy now
Swan Lake Knitted Vest, £95, House of Sunny at Urban Outfitters – buy now
READ MORE: It’s Sweater Vest Season – Here are 22 I Love
Jumper Dresses
There are days when you can’t be bothered to layer up.
If you’re like me, most autumn winter days don’t inspire you to play with your looks. The solution for this is simple, though: jumper dresses.
Dresses are the easiest way to look like you put effort into your outfit. This seasons, make sure you stock up on jumper dresses not just for the style but also for keeping warm.
Mika Dress, £140, Sezane – buy now
Albaray Turtle Neck Dress, £79, John Lewis – buy now
Ribbed Knit Dress, £420, Acne Studios at Net-a-Porter – buy now
Fair Isle Jumpers
Ski-style knitwear is one of this seasons key trends, so a fair isle jumper is a must.
Don’t have one yet? Check out our edit of Fair isle pieces.
Elliot Fairisle Sweater, £125, Kitri – buy now
Constantin Jumper, £110, Sezane – buy now
Anna Cashmere Jumper, £210, Boden – buy now
Knitted Skirts
Pair your favourite knit top with knitted skirts — it’s almost as easy as slipping a dress on.
This season is all about texture, so these fit right in.
Slit Knitted Skirt, £49.99, Mango – buy now
Ribbed Knit Cotton Skirt, £245, Anna Felicia at Net-a-Porter – buy now
READ MORE: Chic Christmas Pyjamas Do Exist – Here Are 13 Sets You Can Wear All Winter
Cut Out Jumpers
To get more bang for your buck, go for pieces that can be worn many times and in different seasons.
As well as knitted dresses in winter, I’m also looking forward to wearing the latest must-have knit: cut out jumpers.
Cut-Out Jumper, £69, COS – buy now
Ribbed Sweater with Slits, £35.99, Mango – buy now
Simone Black Cutout Sweater, £125, Kitri – buy now
READ MORE: If You Buy One Item This Winter, Make it The Cut Out Dress
Ponchos
They’re back! Y2K style has returned to the mainstream, bringing ponchos with it.
This year’s styles are a bit more streamlined though, so there’s no need to be scared about looking dated.
Check out our edit of the best ponchos and capes this season.
Ribbed Alpaca Wool Cape, £79.99, Zara – buy now
Check Cape with Fringing, £125, Uterque – buy now
Knitted Wool Cape, £49.99, H&M – buy now
High-Neck Cape Coat, £169, Massimo Dutti – buy now
Colourful Knits
It’s all about crossing over to the colourful side this autumn winter. That goes for every part of your outfit, so it’s a must to have a colourful knit.
The brighter, the more versatile — they can be worn all year long, even during spring and summer.
Sweater with Boucle Appliques, £80, Uterque – buy now
Polo Collar Sweater, £89.95, Massimo Dutti – buy now
Cable Knits
Cable knits used to intimidate me because of how bulky some of them look, but I’m ready to embrace one of this year’s knitwear trends and get out of my comfort zone.
These knits from Zara and Monki are making it easy.
Cable-knit Sweater, £29.99, Zara – buy now
Merino Cable Knit Sweater, £95, & Other Stories – buy now
Soft Cable Knit Vest, £30, Monki – buy now
