Being forced to wear an itchy fair isle sweater every year during the holiday season as a child is enough to put anyone off knitwear for life. But there’s so much out there to explore that you’re doing yourself a disservice by not cuddling up in the coziest of knits for the coldest of seasons.
While hoodies and other typical cotton-blend sweaters are a classic go-to choice, knitted sweaters are the undisputed king during fall and the colder months.
The knitting process itself actually stretches back thousands of years, with origins across Egypt and the Middle East. But it was in the 15th century and on the English Channel Islands that knit jerseys as we know them today were first produced as warming, durable garments for dressing the element-bearing seafarers of Guernsey. The effectiveness of the knit sweater caught on, though, with textile producers across Ireland and Scotland developing this fisherman’s staple much further, adding complex patterns and Celtic knots to the design and, in turn, birthing the iconic Aran sweater.
Along with being the perfect garment for the holiday season, knitwear has grown to be popular all year round with styles ranging from pieces almost straight out of the film GoodFellas to big and fuzzy cardigans. Even sweater vests are having a resurgence, thanks in part to folks like Harry Styles and A$AP Rocky.
There’s no better time than now to begin stepping up your winter wardrobe with stand-out pieces from the best men’s knitwear brands available. We’ve gathered some of our favorite knits from trustworthy staples to standout investment items from new collections.
Scroll to shop knitted sweaters for men, the ultimate fall essential.
Dries Van Noten Melbourne Knit
Adding some color to your fall wardrobe is a great choice when considering back to school or work pieces that equally stand out and exude comfort. This crewneck sweater by Dries checks both of those boxes as it’s made from an alpaca-blend and arrives in a bright yellow colorway.
Noon Goons Gatekeeper Sweater
The last thing we’ll do is gatekeep any proper knits for the upcoming season, but name aside this mohair sweater from Noon Goons is expertly detailed with an intarsia knit skull.
Mihara Yasuhiro Frayed-Hem Knitted Cardigan
Depsite what your folks might say, frayed edges and hems are in fact in, and easily add depth to well-fitting top like this knit cardigan by Mihara Yasuhiro.
Marni Wool Turtleneck
Sure, turtlenecks may be the last thing on your mind since the summer is still here but it pays off to plan ahead. This pink wool sweater by Marni with a contrast logo at the chest is easily one of the best pieces on this list.
Sacai Interstellar Sweater
Sacai took wearing ‘it’ on your sleeve to a new level with this rib knit sweater that appears to have emerged from a library. Even if you’re not back to school shopping there’s no denying the craft embedded in this wool crewneck.
Marine Serre Ornament Half-Zip Sweater
Ideal for those of you that prefer to have some flexibility with your outfits, this all-black sweater by Marine Serre is detailed with an intricate version of the brand’s crescent moon logo embroidered that will easily elevate your wardrobe.
Kapital 5G Wool Bone Turtleneck
It’s hard to come across a brand that gets it right every time, but Japan-based Kapital is deserving of that of that notion and this turtleneck certainly makes the case for it.
Acne Studios Brushed Wool Cardigan
Acne Studios serves up another instant classic with this monochrome brushed wool cardigan that emanates comfort through the screen.
Stüssy Loose Knit Logo Sweater
The best part of wearing a loose-knit sweater is the pairing of your top underneath it. Regardless of how you choose to style it, the trusted Stüssy logo is sure to hold you down.
Auralee Kid Mohair Sheer Knit
Unless you’ve worn kid mohair it’s difficult to understand the true nature of its cozy texture. This sheer crewneck is a great option anytime of the year and is cut in a relaxed fit that’s easy to style.
Jacquemus Le Polo Neve
Considering how rare it is to come across a knit polo sweater of this caliber, Jacquemus is clearly onto something. Small details like the contrasting hem and two-button closure really tie this one of a kind piece together.
Diesel K-Elasa Turtleneck
If any brand has come close to mastering indigo dyeing techniques it’s deifnitely Diesel and its catalogue of skillfully crafted pieces. Akin to it’s denim offerings, this top is made entirely from durable cotton and is detailed with a supple stonewashed texure.
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