Why Knitwear is a Must-Have in Your Wardrobe
Knitwear is one of the most versatile pieces in your closet. Whether you’re wearing it under an unstructured blazer or with tapered joggers, it will give your outfit an instant upgrade.
Despite the similarities between knitting and weaving, they are very different. The key difference is in the way the fabric performs.
Warmth
The breathable nature of knit fabrics keeps you warm without making you sweat, while providing great stretch. This is a result of the way knit fabric is constructed, with yarns first formed into loops and then interconnected. This system of loops does not use a weave like other fabric types, instead it is more of a mesh that can be manipulated into various shapes and forms. This flexibility means that knits can be made into sweaters, dresses, tunics and shirts.
The versatility of knitwear is also due to the variety of textures that can be created. There is the standard stockinette texture seen in machine-made socks and T-shirts, as well as ribbing and garter stitch, while other textured patterns include cables (the classic Aran sweaters are made of this style), moss and seed stitch. Adding long loops to the fabric is known as loop knitting and can produce a shaggy texture.
Wool is a natural material that has a high thermal capacity, which means it is incredibly warm to wear. It is also breathable and doesn’t absorb smells, so you won’t need to wash your woollen knitwear too often. When washing, you should avoid wringing or hanging the garment, and only iron it when necessary, using a low-temperature setting and placing a piece of clean cloth between the knitwear and the iron.
Versatility
Knit fabrics are used to create a wide variety of clothing and certain home furnishings. They are made from Knitwear yarns initially formed into loops and then interconnected in order to produce a textile structure. Unlike woven fabric, knits do not have the system of warp and weft threads typically found in other cloth types. This makes it easier to sew – for example, stretch terry knits are well suited for beach, bath and hand towels because they don’t require complicated seams.
In addition to clothing, knits are commonly used in the production of hats and scarves due to their elasticity. The breathable nature of this material is ideal for both warm and cool weather, allowing the skin to breathe in hot weather while keeping it warm in colder weather.
As a result of their versatility, knitwear is often seen as an essential in any wardrobe. From chunky Breton stripes in timeless navy and white to Khaite’s oversized and eye-catching Monet knit, there are a range of styles available to suit every taste.
Many fashion brands also offer sustainable and eco-friendly knitwear as part of their collection. These include companies like Counting Cloud, which produces its sweaters in Spain using 100% certified organic wool that is plant-dyed and mulesing-free, causing no harm to animals or garment workers. This is the perfect way to keep your wardrobe stylish while helping to protect our planet.
Comfort
Knit fabrics are supple and soft on the skin, making them comfortable for all seasons. The material allows the body to breathe and absorb moisture, which helps keep it cool in hot weather. In cold weather, the yarn’s insulation properties help to keep you warm. Knitted garments also have fabulous elasticity, meaning they stretch in all directions. This enables them to mould to the shape of your body, so they fit well and do not restrict movement.
The different textures of knitted materials convey a distinct style and aesthetic, which can be accentuated by the use of colour and pattern. The interplay of stitches and yarns, create unique patterns, which can tell a story and evoke a specific emotion. The history Knitwear of knitwear is also rich and varied, with skilled artisans meticulously crafting garments by hand for generations. This tradition endows each piece with a legacy that transcends the mere wearable art that it is today.
The versatility of knitwear makes it an essential wardrobe staple that can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion. You can wear a chunky cable knit jumper with a pair of jeans for a casual weekend out, or you can dress it up with a tailored blazer for a night out. It is also ideal for layering in winter, as it can add a chic finishing touch to your outfit.
Style
Knitwear can be a great way to add some personality to an outfit. From statement pieces to more subtle designs, there’s a knitwear style for everyone. These versatile garments can be worn with both formal and casual attire, making them a wardrobe staple.
A popular type of knitted fabric is pointelle, which is a lightweight knit that features modest openwork stitch patterns, usually simple geometric shapes. This adaptable knit can be made from a variety of materials, including wool and cotton. Pointelle fabrics are characterized by their fine stitches and delicate appearance. Another popular knitting technique is embroidery, which involves creating a decorative pattern on a piece of clothing using needles and yarn. Embroidery can be applied in a variety of ways, and it may also be combined with other sewing techniques.
While classical plain colours and designs continue to be popular, female consumers are developing interest in knitwear that carries floral and print elements. There is also a growing interest in animal-related patterns, especially those that feature tiger stripes and leopard prints. Increasingly, brands are making knitwear from sustainable sources and/or with plant-based fibres. For example, The Slow Label makes knitwear from organic wool which is plant-dyed and mulesing-free, thereby reducing its impact on garment workers and the environment.
Whether you call it a sweater, jumper, pullover, a polo neck or whatever else, there is something about this form fitting, insulating and comfortable garment that offers an unequalled blend of warmth and fashion. From a simple roll neck to a sophisticated Fair Isle design, there’s a knitwear option to suit every occasion and look.
