I Think These 7 Classic Knits Belong in Every Winter Wardrobe

Often, when we're getting dressed, we find ourselves lacking in the basic items that a wardrobe work so much harder. After all, it's usually the simplest things that make more directional garments look premium—be it a blazer, well-cut jeans or the perfect boot. And this certainly applies to knitwear.

While there's undoubtedly many natty knitwear trends on offer this winter season, which we've already give our consideration to, there's nothing quite so rewarding as cultivating a classic knitwear collection. We're talking about the jumpers and cardigans that will never date, and that you can feel happy about investing in, confident in the knowledge you're giving them a forever home. 

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(Image credit: Brittany Bathgate)

So, which knitwear falls under the timeless category? Keep scrolling to discover the best classic knitwear that'll unlock endless outfit potential. 

1. Cream Cardigan

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(Image credit: @jeannedamas)

Style Notes: Granny-chic has never looked so erm, chic on Rouje creator, Jeanne Damas. Take note and team with frayed denim or layer over a floral midi. 

2. Grey Crew-Neck

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(Image credit: @ropesofholland)

Style Notes: Make like Lindsey and style your classic grey crew neck with another knit shoulder-robed over the top. You can never be too prepared! 

3. FISHERMAN Jumper

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(Image credit: @symphonyofsilk)

Style Notes: Thick, ribbed knits are known as Fishermans jumpers, as they were just about the toastiest thing you could wear when exposed to the elements. Today, they look their best bought oversized and styled with statement boots, much like Lorna has done. 

4. STRIPE

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(Image credit: @erica_davies)

Style Notes: We all know Breton stripes are a perennial style classic, but they needn't be relegated to jersey tops. Striped knitwear is just as timeless and more sensible at this time of the year. 

5. Camel Roll-Neck

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(Image credit: @tineandreaa)

Style Notes: Keep cool and cosy with a caramel toasty high-neck jumper. Do the '00s knee-high boots over jeans just like Tine for a throwback look that works. 

6. BLACK

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(Image credit: @charlottekuhrt)

Style Notes: There's no point in being more specific, as a black knit in any silhouette will serve you well. 

7. CABLE-KNIT

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(Image credit: @eniswardrobe)

Style Notes: Steeped in heritage it may be, but cable knitwear is still adored by those in the know. We think it looks its best worn with high-waisted jeans or layered over formal dresses to give them a downtime spin. 

This post was originally published at an earlier time and has been updated. 

Next, the Mango jacket that's completely taken over our Instagram feeds.

Maxine Eggenberger
Deputy Editor

Maxine Eggenberger is Who What Wear UK’s deputy editor and has over thirteen years of experience in fashion journalism. She been creating engaging and elevated style content specifically for Who What Wear UK since 2018, covering runway reports, emerging trends, long-form features, self-styled shopping stories and columns, including her edit of the best new-in buys. She ensures the highest editorial standards are met across the site, leads the editorial team in their SEO strategy and keyword planning, works closely with the beauty team on content initiatives, represents the brand at industry events, and regularly contributes to social media, including her own Who What Wear UK TikTok franchise, French Style Fridays. Previously, Maxine appeared on ITV's This Morning in her own fashion segment and has interviewed countless celebrities—everyone from Victoria Beckham to Oscar winner Lupita Nyong’o.

Prior to Who What Wear UK, Maxine’s career began when, after completing her first-ever internship at Look magazine, she was offered a position on the brand's fashion desk. She accepted, leaving university a year early in the process. Her passion and natural talent for writing and styling meant she swiftly rose through the ranks to become the title's fashion news and commercial content editor, with a stint as InStyle.co.uk’s fashion and beauty writer along the way. She later served as Look’s acting Editor in Chief, overseeing both print and digital, before embarking on a successful freelance career, working with Grazia, The Pool, and Marie Claire amongst others.

Maxine is based remotely from her countryside home near Edinburgh where she spends her downtime renovating her house, walking her dogs, hosting friends and trying to master the art of making Old Fashioned cocktails.