Cycling shorts, thong sandals, cargo trousers—we’ve lost track of the number of “unexpected” fashion trends that have transcended to become the height of cool, but if you asked us a few seasons ago, even we couldn’t have predicted that this retro item would make such a strong appearance on the style agenda.
Knitted vests have made a major comeback thanks to the likes of Burberry, Gucci, and their muse du jour, Harry Styles, which made the preppy top a firm fixture on the runway way back in 2019. Ever since, the formerly fuddy-duddy knit has started to crop up in the outfits of our favourite influencers and back on the 2022 runways, most recently in COS’ debut NYFW show–so you know it’s sticking around for good.
Of course, you can borrow styling techniques from your grandpa by pairing them with a button-down shirt and tailored trousers, but the sartorially savvy seem to be channelling Chandler Bing by layering theirs over simple T-shirts—here’s looking at you, Anne-Victoire.
Keep scrolling to see how the most fashion people are wearing the throwback buy. Then go on to shop the best knitted vests on the market this autumn, you won’t regret it.
Style Notes: Lucy Williams pairs a seasonal knit with bold, green trousers in a nod to the retro revival. Just add ankle boots and suede accessories for seventies energy.
Style Notes: Alyssa Coscarelli gives her oversize knitted vest an edgy overhaul with the addition of bleached jeans and studded shoes.
Style Notes: Ada Oguntodu ups the preppy ante of her knitted vest by styling it with checked trousers, bright socks and heeled loafers. Gucci inspired styling at its finest.
Style Notes: Use your knitted vest to give your summery skirts an autumn update. Once the temperatures drop, simply swap out the sandals for a pair of knee-high boots.
Style Notes: Anne-Victoire Lefevre’s extensive collection of knit tank tops has given us plenty of inspiration of different ways to style the look, and this pop of colour from a simple mesh top is next on our list.
Style Notes: You needn’t only opt for traditional weaves—Amaka Hamelijnck’s daisy-adorned vest proves just how fun the trend can be.
Style Notes: Eni’s embroidered vest makes for the ideal knitwear update. Just add white or ecru denim for a fresh way to summery tones in autumn.
Style Notes: Of course we could rely on María Bernad to match her natty Gucci knit with a pair of grass-green boots.
This mohair knit looks so premium.
Minimalists will style this over shirt dresses and with leather trousers.
Another autumn hit courtesy of Ganni—get it while you can.
We’re calling it, this hue is about to be trending for autumn.
The perfect autumnal colour palette.
This looks so cool layered over a crisp white shirt or collared blouse.
Luke Edward Hall knows good colours and patterns, and Chateau Orlando is his eclectic new brand of clothing, interiors and accessories. Expect tanks, tees and tableware with plenty of vintage charm.
The perfect way to pep up your blue jeans? This chic shade of red, and its a key colour for A/W.
A versatile staple you’ll wear again and again.
The button details make this simple camel knit feel that much more considered.
This cropped knit will look the Clueless part with a mini skirt and knee-high boots.
Between the collar and the print, this feels so authentically retro.
This tank would look just as good one it’s own as it would with a blazer, over a shirt, or with a white tee.
