Invest in Timeless Style: Knitwear Staples that Last Beyond the Season

The French have a beautiful word for knitwear, “les tricots”. Knitwear is a timeless classic, offering warmth, comfort, and endless styling possibilities. Those who know me personally know I love my knitwear. 😉

I always invest in quality fabric like natural fibers: Merino wool, cashmere, silk, and cotton offer superior warmth, breathability, and drape. They may cost more, but they’ll last longer and feel amazing. Sustainable choices: Look for brands that use organically grown or recycled materials, or ethically sourced wool.

 So, here are some key knitwear pieces to build your wardrobe:

1. The Versatile Cardigan

Susan B. wears a relaxed elegant outfit with a cashmere cardigan, silk tee, leopard belt, slim straight leg jeans, and slingback flats.
CARDIGAN | TEE (C/O) | BELT | JEANS | SHOES
My sizes: sweater – XS, silk tee – S, jeans – 27

A classic cardigan in a neutral color like camel, navy, or black is a wardrobe workhorse. Layer it over dresses, blouses, or turtlenecks for endless outfit combinations. Details like pockets, cable knit, or unique buttons add visual interest.

This V-Neck Cardigan from J.Crew is so versatile (and feels lovely to wear). The neutral color “plays well with others”, and it’s easy to style with just about anything in my wardrobe. Here’s a similar style in a cotton blend.

One of my seasonal favorites is the cotton cardigan with contrast trim. This again is a classic item which you can wear all year around.

2. The Flattering V-Neck

For many of us, a v-neck can be a flattering and easy-to-wear style.

This (budget-friendly) cashmere style is well-rated, and comes in a bunch of colors. While neutrals like navy, gray, and black are timeless, this Burgundy is a nice alternative, and plays well with other colors. It’s a color that’s both on-trend and perennial (and great for most Winters). This style has a more classic fit, and runs true-to-size. (Size up for a more relaxed fit.)

If cashmere is too warm for you, or you prefer not to wear animal fibers, here’s a wool-free cotton blend, available in several colors. Sizes X-Small to XX-Large.

3. The Classic Crewneck

Susan B. wears a butter yellow cotton/silk blend crewneck sweater, boyfriend jeans, and yellow buckle loafers.
SWEATER | NECKLACE (c/o) | BELT | JEANS | LOAFERS (SIMILAR)
My sizes: sweater – Petite Small, jeans 27

A classic crewneck sweater is one of the most often-worn styles in my wardrobe. For spring, I’m loving this cotton-silk blend from Banana Republic! It’s lightweight and substantial but not bulky. This butter-yellow color (“Vanilla Custard”) is a perfect match for Banana in my Spring palette, but there are several other colors, too. And it’s offered in Petites!

Barrel-leg pants outfit: Susan B wears a cream merino sweater, leopard print belt, Ruti soft twill pants, gold sneakers.
SWEATER | BELT | PANTS | SNEAKERS (SIMILAR)

Another favorite is this Merino wool crewneck from Me+Em. It comes with a detachable snood (turtleneck) for more styling options. It’s a bit more spendy, but the quality is excellent.

4. The Statement Sweater:

Don’t shy away from bold colors, textures, or patterns! A statement sweater can add personality and pizzazz to your outfit. Balance a chunky knit with slim-fitting pants or a skirt. Keep accessories minimal to let the sweater shine.

5. Ponchos, Capes & Ruanas

While ponchos, capes and ruanas have been all over the runways the last couple of seasons, I don’t think a poncho will ever go out of style. While in the past ponchos have been associated with more Boho style, I think they can also look quite elegant. Choose one in a lightweight fabric for layering or a heavier knit for colder days.

I love a luxe looking knit like this one. Pair it with jeans, leggings, or a slip skirt for a relaxed and stylish look.

Embrace your personal style, experiment with different looks, and most importantly, feel confident and comfortable in what you wear. With these knitwear essentials, you can create a wardrobe that reflects your unique personality, no matter your age or lifestyle.

What is your most-worn style of knitwear?

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9 Comments

  1. My two new Talbots knit blazers ( similar to sweater jackets). One is dark navy blue double knit with two rows of gold buttons and a collar. The other is pink/orange tweed knit and zips up! Love them both!

  2. My favourite knitwear styles are a thick sweater in wool with either a crew neck or polo neck and a cotton or silk polo neck to go underneath in winter – or on its own in warmer seasons .

  3. A few months back you featured a merino button cardigan/jacket. I don’t recall the label. Can you kindly remind me?

  4. I confess I love an oversized sweater. I can wear some wool and cotton is always great. I’m supposed to be wearing structured clothes but I really love slouchy sweaters and blouses. These are great choices Susan.

  5. Thank you for showing us knitwear the works season to season. I am trying to buy less and better pieces, and love that you don’t show us fast fashion.
    I purchased the cotton silk sweater on Banana Republic.

  6. I agree with you on the material. I don’t have many knots apart from winter sweaters. I buy cotton the most as it doesn’t itch.
    Greetje