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Winter knits

Cashmere, wool and mohair for the cold.

Winter knits are heavy sweaters, cardigans and ribbed pullovers made from insulating wool, alpaca and cashmere to keep you warm through a freeze. Generous relaxed cuts balance thick merino yarn in black, navy and forest green, giving each silhouette structure without restricting movement. Dense textures hold heat close to the skin while clean lines prevent bulky layers from bunching under coats.

On the Aran Islands off Ireland, sweaters were knitted from wool that kept its natural oils against the sea. Kurt Cobain later wore a worn cardigan on MTV Unplugged in the nineties. Undercover brings Jun Takahashi's Tokyo punk to its sweaters, and Drôle de Monsieur, the French label behind the motto Not From Paris Madame, brings seventies colour to its knits.

Pair oversized cardigans, ribbed sweaters and zip hoodies with tailored wool trousers, denim or sharp leather boots. Due West in Toronto carries knits from Drôle de Monsieur and A.P.C., while Utopia in Toronto adds Chrome Hearts hoodies and sweaters. WDLT117 in Toronto gathered sculptural pleated pullovers and mohair knits for women and men.

Common questions

Which fabrics provide the best warmth in winter knits?
Cashmere, alpaca and merino wool trap body heat effectively while remaining breathable. Dense animal fibers insulate better than plant yarns because their natural crimp holds warm air pockets.
How should you layer winter knits without adding bulk?
Wear thin merino crewnecks directly over cotton undershirts, then layer loose cardigans under unlined wool overcoats. Wide leg trousers help balance heavy knit tops and maintain clean proportions.
Which independent designers specialize in winter knits?
Undercover makes graphic knits with a punk edge, while A.P.C., from Paris, keeps its knits plain. Drôle de Monsieur adds colour.