Knitwear – Easy to Style and Lasts a Long Time
Knitwear is a wardrobe staple that is easy to style and will last a long time if taken care of properly. It can be made from a variety of materials, but most commonly wool that has been ethically sourced from mulesing-free animals and plant fibres.
Pattern adds interest to a knit and can be found in the form of stripes, checks and cables. The classic example is the Aran sweaters from Ireland, but you should also look at Fair Isle from Scotland.
Origins
The exact origin of knitting is a bit of an enigma. It is believed to have evolved from an ancient weaving technique known as nalbinding, but it’s difficult to trace back to a Knitwear specific time and place. The most popular theory is that it began in the Middle East, then moved to Europe via the Mediterranean trade routes, and eventually marched onwards to America with European colonization.
As it spread around the world, knitwear took on many different regional identities. For example, the gansey sweater was developed by fishermen on the Shetland Islands and is still worn today. Meanwhile, in Austria and Germany, knitting became synonymous with cabled textiles. And South American countries like Peru and Bolivia produce a range of intricate Fair Isle patterns.
By the 1920’s, knitwear had made its way into fashion circles thanks to designers like Elsa Schiaparelli and Coco Chanel. Knit dresses, cardigans and jumpers were a staple of their collections, and the trend continued on into the modern era.
These days, we think of knitwear as a warm, versatile and stylish option for men, women and children alike. It can be worn with anything from formal outfits to jeans and tees, depending on the style of knit. A simple, lightweight knit is a great choice for casual wear, and you can’t go wrong with a classic cable knit sweater that looks just as good with a suit as it does with a pair of denim jeans.
Styles
Knitwear comes in a range of styles from traditional rib and Fair Isle patterns to contemporary textured boucle and cable knits. The pattern and gauge (thickness) of the fabric can affect how warm or cold a garment is as well as its appearance. Fine ply crew necks are suitable for warmer spring and autumn weather while chunky woollen jumpers keep you cosy and comfortable in winter.
A wide variety of colours, shapes and textures are available to suit all tastes and occasions. The most popular knitwear colours include classic neutrals like cream and grey with warm pastels and vibrant hues bringing an elegant finish to any outfit. The cosy feeling of knitwear also makes it a popular choice for accessories such as hats and scarves.
From cosy woollen pom-pom hats to oversized knit ponchos, there is something for everyone when it comes to knitwear accessories. These pieces are often the perfect complement to a patterned blouse or basic tee and can help elevate a casual look to style star status.
While classic plain styles are still popular with female consumers, fashion brands have been introducing more feminine knitwear designs with floral embroidery and prints. In addition, clingy knitwear has seen a rise in popularity with a number of fashionable knit dresses and pullovers. These garments are usually paired with matching trousers or skirts for a coordinated look and are suitable for day-to-night wear in spring, autumn and winter.
Materials
The textiles used in knitwear are made from materials such as wool, silk and cotton. In addition to these natural fibers, manufacturers also use chemical and other synthetic fibres. The fabric is characterized by the inter-looping or inter-meshing of yarns, a process which makes it very distinct from woven fabrics. This type of fabric has a higher elasticity than woven garments and it can be made into a wide range of styles.
Knitted fabrics can be flat or tubular, depending on their manufacturing process. Some examples of flat knitted fabrics include jersey, rib knit and interlock knit. Rib knit fabrics have pronounced lengthwise ridges which are formed by alternately knitting and purling stitches. Rib knits are fairly heavy and have good elasticity. The pattern of a knitted fabric can be varied by adding, dropping, alternating or crossing stitches. A variety of point-like ornaments can be added to the fabric for decorative purposes or to add structure; this is called Swiss darning.
Other common types of knit fabrics include polar fleece, jacquard knit and ponte knit. These types of fabrics are often mixed with other textiles to achieve the desired look and performance. For example, polar fleece is typically made from a mixture of polyester and spandex, while ponte knit is a stretchy double-knit fabric that is very soft. Many companies are incorporating sustainable practices into their knitwear production, such as The Knotty Ones, which produces its sweaters in small local workshops in Spain. The company uses ethically sourced and recycled materials to reduce its environmental impact, while also contributing to the ambitions of its employees.
Care
The proper care of knitwear ensures it will remain in excellent condition over time, so it can be re-worn with confidence and pleasure. Inspecting and cleaning knitwear before storing, choosing the right storage method, and regularly checking stored items allow you to address issues as they arise.
Washing: Hand washing your knitwear with a delicate detergent is an effective way to clean it before storing it. Use cold water and a wool laundry detergent, such as Eucalan or Soak (read the labels). If you have sensitive skin, consider opting for unscented products.
Drying: Make sure your garments are completely dry before storing them. This prevents moisture and musty odors from impacting the quality of your garments over time.
Storing: Consider utilizing drawer storage for your knitwear, especially when storing cashmere sweaters or other delicate materials. Drawer storage allows your garments to be folded and aligned Knitwear properly, preventing excessive creasing or distortion. Sorting your drawers by type or color will help maintain organization and ease of access.
Keeping your storage area clean and free of food particles or other attractants will minimize the chances of moths and other pests damaging your precious knitwear. You can also consider utilizing natural repellents such as cedar balls or lavender sachets in your storage space to further deter moths. It is also a good idea to rotate your knitwear seasonally. This prevents certain pieces from being worn excessively and ensures that all of your favourite garments get equal wear and enjoyment over time.
