The 2026 Sweater Trends
- Donna Estin
- Aug 9
- 3 min read
Sweaters are making their appearances on the runways and definite trends are emerging.
There is a difference in Trendy and Trends and you don't need to be trendy to follow emerging trends in sweaters. "Trendy" is popular right now. It might or might not be around tomorrow. But "Trends" can last for years and years.
A few trends show more staying power than others. When several top designers are showing the same design elements across a wide range of shows from pre-fall to streetwear, you can bank on this trend sticking. If it's wearable, and is already showing up in production, you can almost guarantee you'll see more of these.
Some trends are new. Some have been around for a few years, but we love them so much (like oversized sweaters with drop-shoulder sleeves) that we don't want to part with them.
To be ahead of fashion this fall, pick the styles you like best for your wardrobe. Expect to see these trends soon in commercial sweaters available in stores and online and making their way into knitting patterns this fall and into winter 26/27 so you can knit your own sweater. Because there's nothing more creative and liberating that taking a pattern and selecting your own yarn and colors.
Classic Cardigan
Look for generally thin, fully buttoned, crew neck cardigans to wear alone or layered over a close-fitting top. Solid colors, no patterns, basic ribbing and stockinette allow the texture of the yarn to show. Think cropped or high-hip length, semi-fitted sweaters.
Argyle
Big diamonds, contrasting colored lines, and neutral colors give this year's argyle sweaters an updated look. You'll see argyles in cardigans or pullovers that are oversized, slightly slouchy with drop-shoulder sleeves.
Wide Sleeves
Wide cuffs that flare and sleeves that are wide from cuff to upper arm are all showing up on the runways this season. Wide sleeves are often paired with oversized silhouettes to add to the slouchy look.
Chunky Knits
Chunky yarn allows you wear an oversized sweater that stays put, instead of draping downwards. Loose-fitting pullovers or cardigans with a "big" look to them often start with chunky yarns. Added texture like the deep ribbing that comes with brioche or fisherman ribs, exaggerates the oversized look.
Zip Cardigans
The V-neck trend from last year is still here, but it's morphing into zipped cardigans. Zippers used in unusual ways like opening from both the top and bottom are eye-catching. Wear your sweater as a turtleneck or V-neck - you control the look and the length! Look for hidden zippers that fall back into the sweater, or accent zippers that are in a contrasting color or shiny metal.
If you like zip cardigans, look at this knitting pattern: Tilghman Men's Cardigan
Soft, Fuzzy, Cozy, Brushed Sweaters
Brushed mohair, brushed wool - this is back for another year. This trend uses mostly stockinette, but you'll see it applied to simple colorwork like thick and thin stripes. The look is cozy and cuddly and it's all about the fiber. Skip synthetics and look for mohair/merino, alpaca or brushed wool content in sweaters.
If you like this look, try Baa Ram Ewe's Mowool, 100% Brushed British Wool
Skirts
Stepping out of the sweater mode, look for more knitted skirts (and dresses) this year. Think mirror images of sweaters to give a matchy look, or an extension of intricate colorwork. Straight, wrapped, ankle length, knee length, asymmetrical hems - the more dramatic the better.
Layered Knits
Sweaters with matching scarves. Cardigans over pullovers. Upgrade your outfit by layering knits over knits. Neutrals are dominating here without much contrast between the layers. It's all about texture, shapes and silhouettes.
Unusual Color
Not your traditional Fair Isle or modern color blocks, this year colorwork is about creating something unique and unusual. Look for mixed-up patterns that pair muted colors with a splash of brights. Look for busy distressed-style stitch patterns done in a soothing neutral color palette. Graphics are still going strong this year with random images worked intarsia style. This allows the sweater to resemble a "painted picture" with a more sophisticated color palette in colors you don't normally see together.
Trends combine easily, so look for unusual colorwork combined with the layering trend or zipped sweaters. Combine large argyles with brushed wool for a cozy, hazy sweater. Mix wide sleeves with chunky sweaters. Which styles would you like to combine?
Find more inspiration on my 2026 Sweater Trends mood board on Pinterest. Check back often because more photos will be added as more fall and winter shows are released. What trends are your favorites? Share your thoughts in the comments.
For more trends and to see runway shows, follow:
Who What Wear: https://www.whowhatwear.com/fashion/trends
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