Knitwear has featured throughout the history of fashion. From weatherproofing seafarers and fisherman to garbing women with hosiery and undergarments. Knitwear is as warm as it is versatile, in its various iterations of cable, knots and jersey knits. Knitwear became increasingly popular in the 20th century with the likes of Coco Chanel launching jersey knit dresses, sailor cardigans and jumpers. Fashion designers also became aware of the need for more comfortable and practical clothing during the 1920s and knitwear was updated to modern, chic status in the form of bathing suits and dresses. Through the decades, the recurring trend of sporty knitwear endured, while the likes of Pringle developed knitted twinsets and figure-hugging knitted sweaters became popular.
Fast forward to 2021 and knitwear has not only become a warm winter staple but an obligatory winter fashion statement. This season’s knitwear trend takes the form of the knitted dress. The ever-chic and elegant knitted dress will take you from transitional autumnal dressing to colder winter weather. Take your knitwear cue from the recent Autumn/Winter runways and opt for a rib-knit midi dress like Dion Lee, a sleek one-shoulder style from Nanushka, or a turtleneck variation à la Helmut Lang. Whatever style you choose, wear your knitted dress in muted tones of brown, beige and camel, with it hitting below the knee or mid-calf.
Why is this trend so popular?
During the past year and a half comfort has been integral to our lives, and a knitted dress makes you feel put together without compromising on comfort. You can throw it on and step out of the house, without lamenting the shedding of your comfy sweatshirt and tracksuit pants. Who doesn’t want to feel like they’re walking around in a knitted blanket all day? Designers have catered to our unplanned shift away from constrictive clothing and our need for comfort and ease in a time of undue stress.
How to wear it
Throw a knee-length sleek knitted number on with a pair of sneakers for a casual no-fuss look. A long-knitted dress also looks great juxtaposed with stylish sandals while the sun is still out, which will make you look like a Jacquemus girl. For colder days, layer a mid-calf knitted dress over knee-high boots with as many layers underneath as you like- no one will ever know! You can emphasize the simplicity of a neutral-toned knitted dress with paired back, tonal accessories. Or you can use the neutral canvas to let bold accessories like a statement necklace or oversized belt do all the talking. The mid-length of the knit dress makes for a great pairing with a variety of coats and jackets. Keep it casual with a denim jacket or easy trench coat or dress it up with an oversized blazer.
Fabulous!