Autumn is when knitwear earns its keep. The air cools, the layers stack up, and suddenly those sweaters that spent the summer gathering dust at the back of the wardrobe become daily essentials. But not all knits are created equal. Some are workhorses designed for versatility, others are statement pieces that anchor entire outfits. The best wardrobes strike a balance – a mix of texture, weight and detail that covers every eventuality from chilly commutes to weekends outdoors. These are the key autumn knitwear styles worth investing in now, each one ready to carry you through the season and beyond.
Aran sweater
The Aran sweater is as autumnal as falling leaves and misty mornings. Originally knitted by hand on the west coast of Ireland, its chunky cables and textured patterns were designed for warmth and durability, but over the years it has become a staple of modern wardrobes. Today it straddles the line between heritage and contemporary style, worn with selvedge denim and Goodyear-welted boots as easily as tailored trousers and loafers. The appeal lies in its rugged tactility – it looks best when there’s a little heft to it, making it a natural choice when the weather begins to bite.
Fine-gauge crewneck
Think of the fine-gauge crewneck as the Swiss Army knife of knitwear. Lightweight, versatile and wearable year-round, it’s the perfect mid-layer when you don’t want bulk under a jacket. A slimmer fit gives it a sharper feel, so it can work just as well over an Oxford shirt in the office as it does with jeans and trainers at the weekend. Stick to muted tones – navy, charcoal, beige – if you want maximum mileage, but there’s also a case for richer shades of rust or forest green when autumn rolls around. Either way, it’s an indispensable foundation piece.
Statement knit
Sometimes subtlety needs to be parked in favour of something a little more attention-grabbing. Enter the statement knit. Whether it’s a bold pattern, oversized proportions or a playful colour palette, this is the kind of piece that can define an autumn outfit singlehandedly. The key is to let it do the talking – keep everything else pared back so the knit takes centre stage. Think pared-down trousers, simple footwear, restrained outerwear. It’s the knitwear equivalent of a lead guitar riff: not essential every day, but when it hits the right note, it makes everything else sound better.
Fuzzy cardigan
Cardigans don’t have to conjure images of dusty libraries and moth-eaten tweed. The modern fuzzy cardigan has been co-opted by everyone from skaters to high-fashion designers, bringing with it a louche, grunge-inflected energy that feels perfectly suited to autumn. The texture is what makes it – mohair, alpaca or brushed wool creating that distinctive halo effect. It’s relaxed, tactile and surprisingly easy to wear. Style it open over a plain tee with wide-leg trousers and trainers, or buttoned up under a coat for extra warmth. Few knitwear pieces balance comfort and personality quite so well.
Ribbed knit
Texture is one of knitwear’s greatest strengths, and few styles showcase it better than a ribbed sweater. The vertical ridges lend the garment structure while adding a subtle depth that elevates even the simplest of outfits. A ribbed knit has an inherently casual character – perfect for off-duty layering with denim and work boots – but it can also be dressed up under a tailored overcoat when done in fine wool. Go for a neutral palette to keep it timeless, or lean into earthy tones that nod to the season. Either way, it’s a tactile workhorse worth having.
Knitted polo
Part sportswear relic, part Riviera classic, the knitted polo has become one of the most versatile pieces in men’s wardrobes. Its collar adds a touch of structure that a crewneck lacks, making it an ideal substitute when you want to look put-together without going full shirt and tie. In autumn, long-sleeve versions really come into their own, layered under blazers or worn solo with tailored trousers. Fine merino or cotton-silk blends keep things sharp, while chunkier knits add warmth and a retro edge. Few items move so easily between smart and casual territory with so little effort.
Zip-through
Somewhere between a cardigan and a track top sits the zip-through knit – an underrated transitional layer that deserves more airtime. Its appeal is in the practicality: the zip makes it easy to regulate temperature, while the sleek silhouette gives it a slightly sportier edge than buttons ever could. Minimalist versions in fine wool can even replace a blazer, worn zipped to the top with tailored trousers. Chunkier, retro-inspired takes work well with jeans and vintage trainers. It’s the kind of piece that quietly earns its keep – adaptable, easy to wear, and effortlessly bridging smart and casual.
Cashmere sweater
Every man should own at least one cashmere sweater. Yes, it’s an indulgence, but it’s also one of those investments that pays you back every time you pull it on. Lightweight yet incredibly warm, cashmere offers comfort and luxury in equal measure, draping elegantly and ageing beautifully if cared for properly. It’s best kept simple – a classic crewneck or V-neck in navy, grey or camel – which allows the fabric itself to do the talking. Layer it under tailoring for work, or wear it with jeans at the weekend. Few knits feel as good against the skin.
Half-zip
The half-zip sweater is a piece that’s made a quiet comeback in recent years, shaking off its reputation as golf-club uniform to become a staple of contemporary capsule wardrobes. The zip adds versatility – wear it high for warmth, or open with a T-shirt for a more relaxed look. In fine merino it can be a sharp mid-layer under a jacket, while chunkier wools bring a casual, outdoorsy flavour. It’s one of those garments that works hard without making a song and dance about it, offering a practical middle ground between sportswear and classic knitwear.
Next up: The autumn wardrobe staples every man needs.
