No Cardigans, No Turtlenecks: These 4 Knitwear Trends Are Already Shaping 2026
(Image credit: Getty Images) We are currently in the toughest part of winter, characterized by frigid temperatures and the absence of holiday cheer. During this final chilly phase, dressing in enough layers to stay warm can feel quite tedious. How many different ways can one truly style their favorite turtleneck sweater? Fortunately, 2026 has brought about a new era of knitwear that feels more playful compared to recent seasons. This shift likely correlates with the gradual decline of quiet luxury in fashion trends, giving way to a wave of maximalism. What does this imply for cozy knits? For starters, they are available in vibrant pastel hues rather than subdued neutrals. Adorable knit bandanas have become the accessory of choice, and instead of opting for a single sweater, the trendiest individuals are investing in pre-layered sweaters. It's all rather whimsical and a perfect way to introduce some cheer into this typically bleak time of year. Below, discover the knitwear trends of 2026 that you should know and purchase now.
Knit Wool Skirts
Paolina Russo Fall/Winter 2024 (Image credit: Launchmetrics) If you believe skirts are solely for the warmer months, you're mistaken! While a bit more creativity is required for layering, experimenting with colorful tights and knee-high boots can be enjoyable. Opting for a sweater skirt can also provide additional warmth and texture. We have been thinking about a specific design featuring a crisscross band and warrior print by Paolina Russo that we encountered at Copenhagen Fashion Week a few seasons back.
Paolina Russo Warrior Crossover Rib Wool Sweater Skirt
Free People Petunia Sweater Midi Skirt
J.Crew Sweater Midi Skirt in Double-Faced Merino Wool Blend
Banana Republic Sweater Midi Skirt in Double-Faced Merino Wool Blend
Mango Wool-Blend Knitted Skirt
Reformation Reggie Knit Two Piece
Gap CashSoft Stretch Midi Skirt
Bold Pastel Tones
Miu Miu Fall/Winter 2025 (Image credit: Launchmetrics) Winter often brings darkness, leading people to choose darker colors and tones. However, why settle for neutrals when you can opt for bright and bold pastels instead? This color trend is one of our fashion predictions for the year, and it's the quickest way to start updating your wardrobe.
Everlane The Cropped Cardigan in Cotton Cashmere in Deep Pink
Elodie the Label Taylor Sweater Cardigan
Gap CashSoft Crop Cardigan
Sézane Othello Cardigan in Pastel Yellow
Kimchi Blue Rachel Cardigan
& Other Stories Mohair-Blend Brushed Cardigan
J.Crew Perfect Cashmere Cardigan
Knits on Knits on Knits
Tory Burch Fall/Winter 2025 (Image credit: Launchmetrics) A quirky style surfaced on the fall/winter 2025 runways that resembled layered knits. However, often it was simply one sweater designed to appear as multiple sweaters. Pre-layered sweaters, cardigans, and knit long-sleeve tops are in abundance. Why shouldn’t they be? This design eliminates the confusion of choosing complementary pieces.
Sandy Liang Wesley Sweater in Navy
Tory Burch Layered Merino Wool Sweater in Red
J.Crew Carolyn Layered Crewneck Sweater in Merino Wool
COS Layered Merino Wool Sweater
Mango Combined Shirt-Collar Sweater
Massimo Dutti Knit Sweater With Scarf Detail
Knit Bonnets
(Image credit: Courtesy of Sandy Liang) All of the prevalent trends at the moment have a hint of whimsy, and knit bonnets, reminiscent of the 2010s, are particularly popular. Sandy Liang's well-known Peck Bonnet, featuring charming scalloped edges, is already hard to acquire (although the brand recently restocked), and with good reason. A knit bonnet can keep your head or neck warm depending on how you style it, and it is less cumbersome than a long scarf. Plus, it's simply adorable.
Sandy Liang Peck Bonnet in Red
Gap Pointelle Triangle Scarf
COS Cashmere Triangle Scarf
& Other Stories Wool Triangle Scarf
Free People Essential Triangle Scarf
Celine Bandana in Cashmere and Silk
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