Chunky knits might have dominated my winter wardrobe for the past few years, but lately I’ve found myself noticing another style that’s actually the unsung hero of most stylish people’s winter wardrobes: the lightweight, or ‘thin’ knit.
The Best Lightweight Knits, According To marie claire:
- Best Crew Neck: Scanlan Theodore Babywool Crew Sweater, $160
- Best Turtle Neck: Cable Superfine Merino Turtle Neck, $199
- Best V Neck: Camilla And Marc Leona Knit V Neck Sweater, $350
- Best Cardigan: Uniqlo 100% Australian Merino Crew Neck Cardigan, $59.90
Unlike the oversized sweater—with its reliable, throw-on-and-go formula (think the enduring appeal of The Row’s Ophelia and its many counterparts)—the fine knit invites a more intential approach. Its appeal isn’t as immediate, but rather cumulative. Defined by its versatility, it comes into its own through layering—arguably where the true nuance of winter dressing actually resides.
Much like the recent styling shift that has seen scarves reimagined as belts or draped in unexpected ways, the thin knit extends far beyond its assumed role.
Of course, it serves as an easy base layer—but it’s just as cool when worn beneath a tank, draped over the shoulders of a blazer, or tied at the waist or neck to add interest (and warmth) to a tonal look.
There’s a distinct sense of balance at play, too. The slimline silhouette of a fine knit offsets volume elsewhere—grounding oversized outerwear, softening the structure of tailoring, or balancing fluid silks. It’s this interplay of proportion and texture that makes it such a useful addition to a well-edited wardrobe.
Then, there’s the practical use case. In the context of an Australian winter, lighter knits often prove far more wearable than their heavier counterparts, remaining in rotation well beyond the coldest months. With less material required, natural fibres—wool, silk, cashmere blends—also become that much more accessible.
Just as importantly, their lightweight nature makes them inherently easy to layer beneath blazers, jackets and coats—bringing extra versatility to styling the pieces you already own.
Below, my edit of the best thin knits—from timeless crewnecks to sharply cut V-necks—spanning both affordable essentials and considered investment pieces.
Read: This Editor-Approved Staple Might Be Missing From Your Wardrobe
SCANLAN THEODORE
Babywool Crew Sweater
COS
Merino Wool Polo Jumper
CAMILLA AND MARC
Leona Knit V Neck Sweater
ARKET
Half-Zip Wool Top
CABLE
Superfine Merino Turtle Neck
LEE MATTHEWS
Mila Contrast Cardigan
ST.AGNI
Merino Wool Slit Sleeve Sweater
P.JOHNSON
Daisy Merino Knit
UNIQLO
100% Australian Merino Crew Neck Cardigan
DRIES VAN NOTEN
Pointelle-Knit Merino Wool Cardigan
THEORY
Wool-Blend Sweater
MNG
Knit Striped Sweater
B SIDES
Merino Wool Polo Sweater
BASSIKE
Stripe Wool Cashmere Polo
MNG
Luccav Sweater
OROTON
Collar Cardigan
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