I have quite a divisive opinion about this time of year, in that I absolutely love it. While everyone else is mourning the end of summer, I'm feeling rejuvenated by the cooler temperatures and the ability to be outside for longer than 20 minutes without having to drench myself in sun cream, down five litres of water and wear a hat (my dark haired girls will understand).
So when it comes to discussing an autumnal wardobe, knitwear is my happy place. Not only is it a sign that my favourite season is upon us, but a good knitwear collection can see you effortlessly through the colder months in style.
The knitwear category has more variety than ever, expanding far beyond the traditional jumpers and cardigans to include a range of silhouettes and styles that offer endless styling opportunities. This season, there's a heavy focus on reinventing classics and an injection of colour. On the runway Miu Miu disrupted an otherwise neutral collection with bright v-necks and cardigans, while Chanel put a spotlight on the knitted tank, using longline proportions to create a drop-waist effect.
As the start of a new season has us re-thinking our wardrobes, I recommend building a solid capsule around great knitwear. Below, I've compiled an edit of the six trends I feel will not only tick several trend boxes, but will work hard with what you already own. Read on to find out more.
5 Knitwear Trends for Autumn 2026
1. Turtleneck Cardigans
Style Notes: The funnel-neck obsession has made its way into knitwear. If you love an elegant little cardigan, this trend is for you. The high neck elongates the frame, creating a sleek silhouette, so it's perfect for slip and column skirts or a cute pair of capri pants. It's also a great layering piece to wear under a blazer or a chunkier, oversized cardigan.
Shop Turtleneck Cardigans:
Strong Americana vibes.
100% wool.
High-end quality, high-street prices.
One for the minimalists.
Thin enough for some tactical layering.
2. Short Sleeve Jumpers
Style Notes: The silhouette of a short-sleeve t-shirt gives so much to our everyday wardrobe, so it only makes sense for that silhouette to have a place in our knitwear collections too. It's a super elegant take on knitwear that subtly adds dimension and texture without feeling too heavy. It's a versatile piece that will go well with everything from jeans and skirts to tailored trousers, so if you're going to invest in one new piece of knitwear this season, I'd make it this.
Shop Short Sleeve Jumpers:
Grey is such an underrated neutral.
For a more oversized fit.
Mix with browns and greys for a subtle colour block.
Argyle print makes a comeback for autumn.
Our obsession with cobalt blue continues.
3. Colourful V-Neck Jumpers
Style Notes: V-necks have definitely taken a back seat in recent years, overtaken by our love for the crew-neck, but they're having a resurgence for autumn and this time around they're far from boring. There's contrast necklines and lace details, but the biggest v-neck trend is definitely colour, and the brighter the better. Make them the centre of your outfit by keeping everything else neutral, or use them to create a striking colour-block look.
Shop Colourful V-Neck Jumpers
Made from ultrafine merino wool.
Available in five different colours.
A statement shade.
Layer over a white crew-neck tee and baggy jeans.
Purple will be huge this season.
4. Half-Zip Jumpers
Style Notes: With its sporty, outdoorwear origins, the half-zip jumper adds a touch of cool to an outfit while remaining polished. On its own and zipped-up you create a slouchy funnel-neck vibe, while undone can feel quite sexy. Layer over a t-shirt or roll-neck and you've got an outfit that looks considered but has required very little effort.
Shop Half-Zip Jumpers:
Half-zip? Check. Short sleeve? Check. Colour-matched triangle scarf? Check.
A worthy investment.
A classic autumnal shade.
Have you ever seen a softer looking jumper?
Ultra-cool and cropped.
5. Knitted Vests
Style Notes: Probably the most transitional, year-round item on this list, the knitted tank will work hard in your autumn wardrobe. On warmer days, it looks great on its own with a midi skirt, and when things get colder the layering options are endless, from t-shirts and rollnecks to shirts and even dresses.
Shop Knitted Vests:
Just add jeans for an effortlessly cool look.
Add the matching cardigan for a chic co-ord.
For a pop of red.
Pair with an oversized shirt, barrel-leg trousers and loafers.
I can attest to how soft these jumpers are.
6. Fair Isle
Style Notes: If you're looking for a timeless print that has a bit more substance than a check or a stripe, look to Fair Isle knits. They embody the essence of being sat under a blanket by the fire in a wooden cabin somewhere secluded and peaceful, and everyone wants a bit of that, even if it's just in jumper form. There's a vast range of styles, from traditional to modern reworkings of the print, but whichever you go for you can rest assured all you need are jeans and a pair of chunky boots for a winning outfit formula.
Shop Fairisle:
The brand leading the trend.
A modern reworking of the print.
Sustanably made in the UK.
A heritage brand.
A kitsch interpretation.