The Knit Report: Fall 2026 Knitwear Trends to Live In
Ultra-high necks, chunky cardigans, exaggerated V-necks, lace-like open weaves and stripes: the fall/winter 2026 knitwear trends that make getting dressed feel like being held.
Nothing in a wardrobe is as intimate as a sweater. It is the first thing you reach for on a cold morning and the last thing you take off at night, and this season it was given the full runway treatment: necks that climb, cardigans you could sleep in, and knits as delicate as lace.
What are the knitwear trends for fall 2026?
The fall 2026 knitwear trends are ultra-high necks, asymmetric hems, chunky cardigans, maximalist patterned knits, colourful stripes, exaggerated V-necks, knitted vests and lace-like open weaves. Who What Wear's runway report found them at houses from Gabriela Hearst and Altuzarra to Prada, Missoni and Acne Studios. Start with a chunky cardigan.
Necks that climb
Who What Wear's first trend is the ultra-high neck, seen at Gabriela Hearst and Icicle: turtlenecks pulled up towards the chin. Wear one under a funnel-neck coat for the season's most cocooning silhouette.
The chunky cardigan
The cardigan of the season is thick, generous and meant to be worn as a jacket. Magda Butrym, Altuzarra and Kseniaschnaider all showed chunky versions. Belt it, wear it buttoned over nothing, or throw it over a slip skirt.
Asymmetry and maximalism
Asymmetric hems and seams gave classic knits a slightly off-kilter energy. At the other extreme, maximalist knits arrived covered in pattern and texture; Nina Ricci described its collection as "somewhere between the pathways of Versailles and the muddy fields of Glastonbury." Stripes and colour came from Lacoste, Dries Van Noten and Eckhaus Latta.
The deep V
The exaggerated V-neck was everywhere: Zimmermann, Nina Ricci, Paul Costelloe, Prada and Missoni. Worn alone, it is quietly sensual. It is also the perfect frame for a long pendant necklace.
Vests and lace knits
Knitted vests came crocheted at Stella McCartney and layered at Uma Wang. The most romantic trend was lace-like knitwear: Acne Studios showed open weaves, and Dolce & Gabbana added lace collars.
How to wear this season's knits
- Jewellery over the knit. A wide gold cuff over the sleeve or a long pendant over a high neck is the season's styling signature.
- Colour through knitwear. A red or burgundy sweater is the easiest way into the season's deepest reds.
- Texture on texture. Pair a chunky knit with leather or shearling. See our story on tactile texture.
The takeaway
Invest in one generous knit you will wear until it is shaped to you. A chunky cardigan or a high-neck sweater in a deep colour will work with everything else this season. More in Fashion.
Frequently Asked Questions
What sweater styles are trending for fall 2026?
Ultra-high necks, chunky cardigans, exaggerated V-necks, asymmetric hems, maximalist and striped knits, knitted vests and lace-like open weaves are the key fall 2026 knitwear trends.
Are chunky cardigans in style for 2026?
Yes. Chunky cardigans appeared at Magda Butrym, Altuzarra and Kseniaschnaider for fall/winter 2026. Wear one as a jacket, belted or buttoned.
Which designers showed V-neck sweaters for fall 2026?
Exaggerated V-necks were seen at Zimmermann, Nina Ricci, Paul Costelloe, Prada and Missoni, according to Who What Wear.
How do you wear jewellery with knitwear?
Wear it on top. A wide cuff over a sweater sleeve or a long pendant over a high neck or deep V is the fall 2026 way to style jewellery with knits.
