For many, autumn is their favourite sartorial season. Here, contributing fashion editor at IMAGE Magazine Sinead Keenan extols the virtues of the humble statement knit.
As August draws to an end and the return to school heralds in the arrival of autumn and the imminent cooler weather, we anticipate indulging in autumn fashion, wrapping up in sumptuous layers and textures and gorgeous outerwear.
However, during these last few days of summer when it’s not yet cool enough for coats, but is still a bit too crisp for just a T-shirt, I want to champion the ultimate transitional piece; the statement knit.
As the chill of autumn starts to descend, the sartorial spotlight shifts from airy linens and breezy silks to the cosy warmth of knitwear. But knitwear isn’t just about warmth—it’s about making a statement, where traditional techniques meet avant-garde designs, creating pieces that are as expressive as they are functional.
Supersize me
Once again, oversized knitwear is taking centre stage for AW24. Chunky sweaters with exaggerated proportions dominate the runway collections, offering a cocoon of warmth while making a bold visual impact. At McQueen and JW Anderson, supersized knits play with proportions, creating a striking contrast in texture and shape, presenting knitwear that feels more like wearable art than a mere garment. The above piece from McQueen is a diffused version of the exaggerated runway showstopper while the oversized version of the traditional Breton striped knit from Tôteme is a modern autumnal take on French girl chic.
Make a statement in an oversized cream and black mottled roll neck sweater from Irish online style mecca Ecru Studios or opt for a classic from Stella McCartney, who pumps up the volume with these oversized cable knits that look uber cool over slouchy jeans—they could also be worn as a dress for those who dare to bare!
Rainbow bright
Gone are the days when knitwear was synonymous with muted tones and simple patterns. Current designs are all about embracing bright colours and creativity. Designers such as Dries Van Noten, Givenchy and Ulla Johnson infused knitwear with vibrant hues—think jewel tones like emerald green, sapphire blue, and deep amethyst.
Nothern Irish knitwear designer Hope McCauley brings the joy to brighten up the dreariness of winter and adds a pop of personality to any outfit with her rainbow-coloured, fun yet effortlessly cool statement knits.
And Bottega Veneta’s modern twist on the striped rainbow knit works brilliantly with a super wide-leg jean.
For a solid colour block alternative, a yellow cropped cable knit from JW Anderson will bring the sunshine on dark winter days
And, check out another great Irish designer, Miss She Got Knits, for some fun fashion pieces to liven up your autumn wardrobe.
Find the pattern
In addition to bold colours, patterns are making a comeback in a big way. From paisley designs at Etro to abstract, sculpture prints at Fendi, the season’s knits are anything but basic. These pieces invite a sense of playfulness yet sophistication, transforming even the simplest outfit into a statement look. There were intricate floral intarsia knits at Erdem and houndstooth patterned jumpers and cardigans at Dries van Noten.
Irish brand Urban Aran’s colourful merino wool cardigan is a perfect example of a playful abstract patterned knit.
Animal instinct
Animal print roars back to life for AW24, reclaiming its spot as a statement-making staple for the new season, and even knitwear hasn’t escaped its claws. This year, designers are infusing classic leopard, zebra, and snakeskin patterns into cosy knits, blending boldness with warmth in a way that feels both luxurious and daring. These wildlife-inspired pieces from Massimo Dutti, Marc Jacobs and Munthe will inject a touch of untamed glamour into your wardrobe.
Texture and craft
While colour and pattern are essential, texture is the element that truly defines statement knitwear. Runway collections from Stella McCartney, Sacai and Gabriela Hearst experimented with a variety of yarns and techniques to create pieces that are visually and tactically intriguing. Fluffy Mohair and shaggy alpaca blends bring a plush softness yet crafty aesthetic to oversized wraps and knitted coats, while innovative techniques like heavy embroidery, cable knitting, bobbles and fringe add a three-dimensional quality to sweaters and cardigans. These 3D knitted pieces from Loewe, Reiss, &Other Stories and Essential Antwerp will certainly help you stand out.
The new tradition
Heritage knitwear is having a renaissance this season, offering a comforting return to tradition with a modern twist. Think of classic Aran sweaters and cable-knit cardigans—these pieces evoke a sense of nostalgia, connecting us to the rich history of craftsmanship. However, the traditional isn’t without innovation. Once again I’m fangirling over Irish knitwear designer Colin Burke as he reinterprets these beloved styles with contemporary cuts and a modern palette. And these traditional Irish cable knits in a range of vibrant colours from IrelandsEye are the perfect way to inject new life into an old favourite.
Heritage revisited
Fair Isle, typically associated with vintage charm, is being brought into the present with unexpected colour combinations and abstract patterns.
Ashish AW24 collection offered a fresh perspective on this well-loved heritage motif.
Snuggly and stylish, ski sweaters go from the slope to the street with these Fair Isle creations from Celine and Loewe.
This cosy but cool version from high street favourite H&M is piste perfect while this Fair Isle-inspired vest by Weekend Max Mara is great to layer over a slim knit polo neck and khaki cargos.
Argyle knits also get a sophisticated update for AW24, stepping away from their preppy roots to embrace a modern, edgy aesthetic. Designers played with scale, colour, and texture, transforming the classic diamond pattern into something fresh and unexpected. Oversized argyle motifs in moody, monochromatic tones bring a sense of drama to sweaters, that feel graphic and contemporary like this COS collared knit.
Some pieces even incorporate metallic threads or mixed fabrics, adding a luxe touch to the traditional knit. This Bottega Veneta chunky woven argyle-inspired gilet, a prep school logoed argyle jumper by Miu Miu and this fringed jacquard argyle mohair knit from Marni are perfect for those who appreciate a blend of heritage and innovation.
Into the night
For autumn, knitted sweaters make a bold entry into the realm of evening wear, challenging the traditional notions of after-dark dressing. No longer just for casual outings, these sweaters are being reimagined with intricate designs, luxurious fabrics, and twinkling embellishments that make them perfect for an elegant night out. The cropped crystal-embellished scalloped cable-knit alpaca-blend cardigan from Simone Rocha will elevate any outfit, or the camel mohair embellished knit from H&M paired with this season’s new long full skirt can be your go-to look for an evening soirée.
The sweet puff sleeve merino wool cardigan from &Other Stories works beautifully over a cami and silk slip skirt while the Cecilie Bahnson ruffled cardigan is an ideal transitional outerwear option for early autumn nights.
Grunge
Distressed and ripped knitwear emerges as a rebellious trend for AW24, injecting an unexpected edge into the season’s cosiest staples. Far from the pristine knits of past winters, this year’s pieces embrace imperfections, with intentional rips, frays, and unravelling threads that add a raw, grunge-inspired allure. Brands are transforming traditional silhouettes—think oversized sweaters, slouchy cardigans, and fitted turtlenecks—by incorporating asymmetrical cuts and distressed detailing that exude a sense of nonchalant cool. Wear this wool and alpaca mix open work sweater from Ecru Studios as a juxtaposed layer over a delicate slip dress to give a modern edge to a feminine look.
This selection of deconstructed punkish knits from Acne Studios, Vivienne Westwood and Topshop at ASOS also offer a bold contrast, proving that even the most comfortable garments can have a fierce, fashion-forward attitude.
Say my name
Designer logo and monogrammed knitwear bring a bold statement of luxury and brand identity to the forefront of fashion. Knitwear becomes a canvas for iconic logos and intricate monograms, blending craftsmanship with high fashion in a way that’s both stylish and instantly recognisable. From oversized sweaters emblazoned with bold, graphic logos to subtle, all-over monogrammed patterns on sleek cardigans, these pieces offer a modern twist on branding, making them must-haves for the style-conscious and allowing the wearer to showcase their allegiance to their favourite designers while staying warm and chic.
From Gucci’s iconic GG monogram in jacquard to Loewe’s mohair 3D anagram logo and Celine’s cropped Aran knit with the hand-embroidered Triomphe logo—best worn with a mini skirt, knee-high boots and large round sunglasses to evoke the sixties like the brand’s AW24 show in Paris.
And, I love this youthful, super-fun tiger motif logo pullover by Ganni.
So, as the temperatures drop, let your knitwear be a reflection of who you are—whether that’s someone who cherishes tradition, embraces the avant-garde, or enjoys a bit of both. This season, knitwear isn’t just about keeping warm; it’s about making a statement, telling a story, and, above all, celebrating the versatility and creativity of this essential wardrobe staple.
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