Like well polished shoes and carefully stowed outerwear, knitwear can be among some of the most loyal pieces in our wardrobe.
As we edge into autumn, our attention turns to digging out (and shaving – yes you have to do that) old faithfuls, as well as investing in some new pieces to take us through the colder months.
But to what names do we turn? Whether high street or luxury, here are some of our favourite knitwear brands that deliver in terms of quality, design and craftsmanship.
Marks & Spencer
This high street retailer needs no introduction, offering great wardrobe staples at accessible price points since the late 1800s.
Today, its knitwear range runs the gamut from heritage styles to modern clean-cut designs, with a vast range of colours, fabrics and cuts available.
We’re particular fans of its Autograph line, which includes silk-blend pieces with a real premium feel.
Available at Marks & Spencer.
Recommended
Autograph Merino Wool Slim Fit Knitted Polo Shirt, available at Marks & Spencer, priced £45.
John Smedley
It’s hard to argue with John Smedley’s claim that they produce “the world’s finest knitwear”, with the British label’s merino wool pieces renowned in the industry for being the very best you can buy.
The brand source the fabric ethically and fairly from a select number of wool growers in New Zealand, producing soft, luxurious collections that are naturally warm, comfortable and easy to maintain.
Offering everything from timeless crew and V-necks to modern knitted polos and T-shirts, every design is crafted to the highest standard utilising age-old production techniques.
Available at John Smedley.
Recommended
Matthew Merino Wool Shirt In Indigo, available at John Smedley, priced £155.
Uniqlo
Uniqlo is famous for producing great value for money menswear, and its knitwear range is no exception.
From 100 per cent cashmere to cotton-linen blends, the Japanese retailer offers a wide range of high quality pieces that will quickly become part of your daily rotation.
And with prices starting at just £24.90 for an extra fine merino wool jumper, you can afford to pick up multiple styles.
Available at Uniqlo.
Recommended
Cashmere Crew Neck Sweater In Brown, available at Uniqlo, priced £89.90.
Reiss
Founded in the 1970s with a focus on womenswear, British label
Specialising in understated, sophisticated pieces with a contemporary twist, the brand’s knitwear comes in a wide range of patterns, textures and cuts that you won’t find anywhere else.
Available at Reiss.
Recommended
Highway Ribbed Cardigan In Oatmeal, available at Reiss, priced £125.
Charles Tyrwhitt
British tailoring brand Charles Tyrwhitt has become a go-to for smart and practical knitwear, with everything from merino wool cardigans to cotton-cashmere zip-ups on offer.
If you’re looking for refined pieces that will slot straight into your professional wardrobe then you’ll be spoilt for choice, as the brand sticks to neutral shades and tailored fits that perfectly complement its dress shirts and suiting.
Available at Charles Tyrwhitt.
Recommended
Silver Grey Cotton Cashmere Zip Neck Jumper, available at Charles Tyrwhitt, priced £49.95.
Loro Piana
Starting out as one of Italy’s leading fabric manufacturers, Loro Piana moved into garment production some twenty years ago, bringing its expertise in wool to a range of exquisite knitwear pieces.
Sitting firmly at the luxury end of the market, the label’s collections do not come cheap, but are full to the brim with timeless investment pieces that you’ll find yourself wearing for many years to come.
An indulgence, yes – but one you won’t regret.
Available at Loro Piana and Mr Porter.
Recommended
Loro Piana Contast-Trim Baby Cashmere Sweater, available at Mr Porter, priced £1,035.
Sibling London
This British brand is not for the faint-hearted, with its signature aesthetic being anything by demure – just check out its neon pink-filled autumn/winter 2015 collection for proof.
That said, the 2008-born label has built its stellar industry reputation on the back of its knitwear, which comes in vibrant colourways and standout prints that are sure to garner attention.
Available at Selfridges.
Recommended
Sibling Parallel Lines Wool Jumper, available at Selfridges, priced £365.
Missoni
Traditional knitwear with a twist has been the domain of this Italian label since 1953, with its trademark weaves instantly recognised by stylish men across the globe.
Still a family-owned business, Missoni continues to produce unique designs and practical styles for the modern day, with collaborations with the likes of Converse keeping it firmly at the forefront of fashion.
Available at Missoni.
Recommended
Missoni V Neck Jumper, available at Missoni, priced £350.
Norse Projects
Scandinavians know a thing or two about dressing for colder climates, as Norse Projects proves.
Born out of the Danish store of the same name, the brand focuses on creating high quality, functional pieces with a distinct workerwear twist.
Its knitwear collections stick rigidly to this ethos, with the brand utilising only the finest fabrics to produce hard-working, durable styles that will keep you warm and protected throughout winter.
Available at END Clothing.
Recommended
Bubble Crew Knit Jumper, available at END Clothing, priced £135.
