Rory Gilmore; Kendall Jenner; Adam Driver as Maurizio Gucci in House of Gucci. What do these different figures have in common? The shared appreciation of cable-knit sweaters.
With their three-dimensional embroidery and classic preppy flair, cable-knit sweaters bring an intriguing design aspect to the traditional sweater silhouette — and these days, they’re cooler than ever. As we curate our closets with the best leggings and winter coats, these cozy gems are a must-have transitional weather item to include.
Thanks to their forgivingly flowy fit, there are plenty of ways to wear these cross-stitched pullovers. The intentionally boxy look is a always versatile styling choice, whether it’s paired with jeans for a slouchy boyish aesthetic or worn as a dress with high-hitting statement boots, à la Jenner.
V-neck iterations make for a timeless layering piece when paired with slacks and crisp collared shirts, while straight-fitting options with ballooning bell-sleeves work as their own kind of statement. Regardless of which style and cut you choose, the classic stitching on cable-knit sweaters has an instantly comforting effect.
And with all the options out there, the styling choices are easier than ever.
Classified as a “Rory Gilmore aesthetic sweater” (yes, really!), this cozy unisex cable-knit is complete with archetypal bundled-up detailing, including vintage-style stitching, a ribbed collar and blissfully billowy sleeves.
Made of 100% acrylic, it’s a buttery soft crewneck with just the right amount of stretch. Plus, it’s available in an array of colours and patterns, making it a staple for every day of the week when the weather drops. There are over 2,000 reviews that love it for just that. Though it’s acrylic, it has the feel and texture of a wool-cashmere blend.
There are many benefits to wearing your sweater as a vest — one of which is the layering. This pick (a certified Amazon best-seller), is expertly styled with crisp collared blouses for a polished professional finish, even though you’re wearing a sweater. Easy to dress up or down, it’s available in 20 colours and offers a sharp V-neck cut.
Made of acrylic, nylon and polyester, it doesn’t skimp on coziness while offering a good amount of stretch. Plus, it can be machine-washed without losing its shape.
Made with organically grown cotton and recycled materials, this oh-so-cozy mulberry coloured pullover is crafted to last.
Designed to be cozy and flattering this chunky yarn is the perfect statement piece for a treat-yourself outfit day when you just want to feel good. Pair it with a pair of straight-leg jeans for an effortless ‘90s styling moment.
With their decidedly oversized shapes, cable-knit sweaters can sometimes feel like they lack styling options. But this offering by Gap does not. Hitting right at the hip with a straight silhouette and relaxed fit, it’s a soft cotton pullover that is both baggy and beautifully lightweight.
Tuck it in, layer it atop a collared shirt, or wear it just so for a perfect balance between polished professionalism and cozy cuteness. Available in three luxe colours, it’s offered in tall and petite sizing to guarantee a satisfying fit.
Cable-knit sweaters can’t be cutting edge? Andersson Bell would beg to differ. The cult-favourite streetwear label reimagined the classic silhouette with tattered asymmetrical edges and tiny scattered holes.
Made of 100% wool, it features rib-knit crewneck and cuffs with a soft-to-the-touch feel. Complete with a dropped shoulder silhouette and loose, stretched-out threads, it adds an edgy appeal to a universally beloved style.
Barbiecore has (re)entered the chat. This Isabel Marant cable-knit cardigan features structured swollen shoulder details for a playful riff on power dressing in the form of the baggy sweater.
A ribbed neckline adds an elegant touch while intricate stitching infuses it with an artistic flair. Made of wool, mohair and polyamide, it’s just the right blend of buttery softness and all-day wearability.
Crafted from luxurious 100% extra-fine lambswool, this lightweight sweater promises the utmost warmth sans any itchiness. Featuring traditional Aran chain-stitch patterns, it holds positive associations like safety, hard work and luck.
Thanks to its subtle bell sleeves and relaxed cascading silhouette that hits below the hips, it’s a made-in-Canada must-have that offers a unisex appeal.
Choose from a cherry red, a crisp ivory, a chocolate brown or a luxe creamy beige. This pullover brings a playful academic flair to the cable-knit table. With a plunging V-neck cut and intricate spiral stitching, it has a timeless style that falls just below the hips. Plus, this pick has oh-so-satisfying contrasting white piping.
This cropped button-down number blends the unique coziness of a lucky vintage find with the contemporary chicness of a shortened silhouette.
Crafted with a wool/polyamide blend, it offers a soft cable knit feel with easy button-down styling, making it eternally easy to wear. For a go-to outfit, pair this with your favourite pair of jeans or a maxi-skirt of your choice.
How does one modernize the traditional cable-knit sweater, you ask? This is how. Complete with a roomy hood and a zipper, Aritzia’s take on the archetypal pullover is chic as can be.
Intricately knitted from responsibly-sourced merino wool, this garment offers durability, supreme warmth and designer-level styling opportunities. You’re welcome.
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Natalie Michie is the style editor at FASHION Magazine. With a pop culture obsession, she is passionate about exploring the relationship between fashion, internet trends and social issues. She has written for Elle Canada, CBC, Chatelaine and Toronto Life. In her spare time, she enjoys reading and over-analyzing movies on TikTok.
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