The IT knits: Winter warmers that pack plenty of personality

When it comes to autumnal dressing, coats do most of the heavy lifting as temperatures drop, but knitwear is a close second. With transitional weather so unpredictable, knits are proving their mettle this season: a cosy quick fix against the cold, they can also add a pop of colour to an outfit or serve as a handy styling hack, wrapped around the shoulders or knotted at the waist.

Practical but stylish, this season’s knitwear is far from a supporting act or just something to slip under your coat for extra insulation; it is becoming a foundation of an outfit, adding personality, colour or a fun print and making a statement in its own right.

And if the autumn catwalks are any guide, there’s no better time to add a fun, fuzzy knit to your wardrobe and warm up those cold, dark days. After seasons of pared-back purls and quiet-luxury woollies, fashion has returned to more-is-more, and knits are getting a maximalist makeover too – think bold colours, playful prints, motifs and texture.

Cosy knits appeared on the catwalks in an array of bright shades at Prada, Celine and Miu Miu. An instant mood lifter and outfit energiser, you can temper the bold shade knit with deeper autumnal tones, like slipping a red style under black leather or chocolate brown suede, or pairing cobalt with grey or burgundy.

At Ralph Lauren, moody florals bloomed across chocolate, strong-shouldered knits. Elsewhere, heritage prints got a catwalk airing, with windowpane checks, argyle and Fair Isle getting a fashiony fresh spin, reimagined by designers like Moschino and Khaite.

To keep traditional prints from feeling too countryside chic and give them more edge, opt for modern styling, like leather midi skirts or utility trousers, as seen styled at Dries Van Noten. Meanwhile, Victoria Beckham and Lanvin leant into more geometric patterns in a restrained, monochromatic palette, proving statement sweaters don’t have to be too intimidating.

If you prefer understated but don’t mind making a statement with silhouette, embrace the bold-shoulder trend this season, like boxy or exaggerated balloon shoulders, as seen at Tory Burch and Carolina Herrera, and structured silhouettes with shoulder pads that give the simplest jumpers a sculptural, architectural feel. Balance the shoulder volume with tailored trousers, straight-leg denim or a streamlined midi skirt.

Funnel-neck knits add some drama too, and the exaggerated neckline means you can skip the scarf.

Texture is another way to adopt the statement sweater without leaving the neutral palette territory.

Opt for chunky cable knits, fuzzy mohair or brushed finishes to add interest to simpler outfits. Have fun playing with textures: contrast tactile knits with smoother, sleeker finishes; think silk, satin, leather and glossy patent leather.

The trick to making a personality knit work for the season is to let it take centre stage and breathe new life into your wardrobe staples. A patterned, fun jumper can freshen up your favourite denims, while a chunky cable cardigan can refresh a dress. Consider your new knitwear a practical purchase with a personality punch.