Different Styles Of Knitwear
I already wrote about the difference between knitwear fabrics, so in this article I want to talk about different styles of knitwear and how to wear them.
Crewneck
A crew neck sweater has a round neckline that pairs well with collared shirts or a simple tee. It’s the simplest knitwear style, which is why I recommend it as a first knitwear choice for everyone. The thickness of the sweater is what makes the difference. Thinner versions are more appropriate for dressier looks and work well with tailoring, while thicker versions provide a more relaxed aesthetic and are perfect for casual outfits. However, I wouldn’t go too thick with a crew neck.
V-Neck
It’s the most formal style of knitwear, and it might not work for everyone, so I always suggest being more cautious with V-neck sweaters. In my opinion, only two types of V-necks really work. The first is a fine, thin version that’s very formal and pairs well only with tailoring. The second is a thicker, chunkier Ivy League style with a wider and deeper neckline in a contrasting color. The depth and width of the V-neckline must be well-proportioned to your chest and neck, or it can quickly look off. In most cases, V-necks only work with a collared shirt. If you want to wear one with a sport coat or blazer, it can look off if it doesn’t align with the lapel.
Polo Sweater
Knitwear with a collar is available in various thicknesses and with both short and long sleeves. Very thin versions are essentially knitted polo shirts, while thicker versions can provide a relaxed, elegant vibe, quite different from any other knitwear style (check the photo).
Roll neck
Roll necks are a perfect option for windy and colder days. They cover the neck entirely and provide extra protection, which you'll appreciate even more if you live in a very windy area. Thinner versions can pair well with tailoring, but the thicker you go, the more they can distort your body proportions. For example, I have a stronger upper body - more chest and wider shoulders, so mid-weight knitwear is the heaviest I can wear. If I put on something too thick, I look much wider and shorter, so keep that in mind when choosing the weight of a roll neck sweater.
Cardigan
A classic cardigan can also be a tricky option because it may not work for every body type. It can be a more relaxed alternative to a V-neck for more formal looks. For casual looks, cardigans pair well with Ivy style clothing.
Shawl
There are two versions of shawls: shawl neck and shawl cardigan. The first option is a very specific look that, in my opinion, works only for slim body types. If you have a larger chest, don’t even think about it. On the other hand, the shawl cardigan can work for almost everyone. This knitwear style looks best in very thick, chunky versions. It’s a perfect choice for a relaxed, cozy look, but it also adds a touch of sophistication because of its thick, curved collar. You can wear it with a shirt and trousers or with jeans and a tee - it works well with both options.
Vest
A vest is basically a sleeveless V-neck sweater. It can be made out of thin fabric and worn with tailoring if you don’t want to wear a V-neck sweater or add extra thickness in the sleeves but still want that nice V-neckline popping out from your jacket to show part of your tie and the collar of your shirt. For a more casual style, you will probably choose a thicker, more colorful option with a pattern or specific knitted texture. This casual version will work perfectly with countryside or Ivy style outfits.
Mock-neck, zip, funnel
All these other styles are much more specific and will appeal to a niche audience, so I won't go into detail about them.
When it comes to choosing which styles will work best for you, you need to consider your personal style, what pairs well with the clothes you wear most, and the situations in which you plan to wear them. I think everyone should start with a simple beige or cream crew neck and then choose a roll neck next. From there, it will really depend on your preferences and needs.
