The Knit List: Your Cold-Weather Style Guide
As the temperature dips and the cold-weather party season kicks off, a few quality knitwear pieces go a long way. From weekend getaways to layering under a suit for work or events, knitwear is your low-effort, high-impact go-to.
Here’s a quick guide to the key styles (and some images of people looking cool wearing them).
The V-Neck: Paul Newman
A timeless knitwear staple, the V-neck is best worn in wool or cotton, layered over a collared shirt and under a suit — tie optional. Stick to restrained colours, opt for high-quality Merino wool or premium cotton, and make sure the fit is close and comfortable, never loose or stretched. While the V-neck has sometimes carried the baggage of golf clubs and old-money clichés, it’s also had its style moments: Paul Newman and a young JFK wore it with effortless cool, while Michael Douglas took it to bold new territory (sans shirt) in Basic Instinct.
The Cableknit: Steve McQueen
With roots in early 1900s Ireland, the cableknit sweater was originally designed for warmth and durability — its textured patterns adding insulation for fishermen braving the sea. Today, it’s a laid-back classic, rich in character and timeless appeal. Whether in cotton or wool, the cableknit is breathable, warm, and endlessly versatile — just as easy over jeans or chinos as it is layered under a coat or suit. Style icons from Steve McQueen to Chris Evans (see: Knives Out) have proved just how effortlessly cool it can be.
The Crew Neck Sweater: Cary Grant
A crew neck sweater in high-quality wool or cotton is as classic as it gets — a timeless piece that brings effortless layering sophistication to any look. From sharp, suit-ready knits to sportier cotton styles paired with chinos or denim, the crew adapts to every dress code. Modern tailoring blurs the lines, so don’t be afraid to mix it up — a casual crew with wool trousers and loafers strikes the perfect balance. And for the trivia buffs: the crew neck was first introduced by the U.S. Navy to keep sailors warm without showing off their unsightly chest hairs.
The Roll Neck: Sean Connery
Once considered the domain of eccentric uncles and vintage knit bins, the roll neck has reclaimed its place as a sophisticated staple. After a period of quiet exile, it’s returned to the fold — this time sharper, better fitting, and more versatile than ever. Worn under a tailored suit or beneath a well-cut coat, it delivers understated elegance with just the right amount of attitude. The roll neck (or turtleneck, for those stateside) doesn’t demand attention — it earns it. A piece that says, “I’m in the know,” whether anyone else has caught on yet or not.
Start browsing our own unique collection of knitwear on the InStitchu site right here.