Springtime Knits: The Best Knitwear for 2026, Styles on Trend and Best Affordable and Luxury Brands to Buy

Spring 2026 knitwear is all about lightweight, breathable textures in soft neutrals and pastels, with cropped silhouettes, open-weave details, and versatile layering pieces that transition effortlessly from cool mornings to warmer afternoons. This season sees a beautiful shift away from chunky winter knits towards delicate, tactile fabrics that feel luxurious against the skin whilst keeping you comfortable as temperatures fluctuate. I'm seeing pointelle knits, fine-gauge cashmere, and cotton-linen blends dominate the rails, and honestly, it's the most wearable knitwear trend we've had in years.

As a fashion stylist of 20 years - here are my non sponsored, honest and unbiased top picks...

The Key Trends Defining Spring 2026 Knitwear

Let me walk you through what's actually working this season. First, cropped cardigans are everywhere—and I mean everywhere. They're hitting just above the hip, often with pearl or contrast buttons, and they're the perfect companion to high-waisted trousers or midi skirts. The silhouette is flattering without being restrictive, and it creates that coveted elongated line we all want.

Secondly, open-weave and pointelle knits are having a major moment. These aren't your grandmother's crochet tops (though vintage-inspired pieces are certainly welcome); we're talking refined, structured knits with strategic perforations that add visual interest without sacrificing sophistication. They layer beautifully over slip dresses or simple vests, making them ideal transitional pieces.

Colour-wise, we're seeing a palette of soft sage, butter yellow, powder blue, and classic ecru dominating. Stripes remain a perennial favourite, particularly Breton-style with fine, irregular patterns. And texture? It's all about the tactile—think ribbed fabrics, cable detailing on lightweight knits, and silk-cotton blends that drape rather than cling.

How to Style Spring Knitwear Like a Pro

The secret to nailing spring knitwear is treating it as a layering hero, not a standalone piece. I always start with a silk or cotton camisole underneath—it prevents any sheerness issues with lighter knits and adds a luxe feel. For daytime, pair a cropped cardigan with wide-leg linen trousers and loafers. It's effortlessly chic and works for everything from coffee meetings to gallery visits.

For evening, try a fine-gauge knit top tucked into tailored trousers or a midi skirt with ankle boots. The key is balancing proportions: if your knit is oversized, keep your bottoms fitted, and vice versa. Don't be afraid to mix textures either—knitwear plays beautifully with denim, leather, and silk.

Accessories matter too. A delicate gold necklace or hoop earrings elevate even the simplest knit, whilst a structured bag adds polish. And always, always consider the weight of your knit when choosing your jewellery—chunky necklaces overpower lightweight spring knits.

Best High Street Brands for Spring Knitwear

Cos has absolutely nailed spring knits this season. Their minimalist aesthetic translates beautifully into fine-gauge merino and cotton-linen blends, with impeccable construction and timeless silhouettes. The price point sits around £49-£89, and the quality justifies every penny. Their cropped cardigans in particular have brilliant structure.

Massimo Dutti brings that Italian-inspired sophistication to their knitwear range. Expect refined cuts, beautiful drape, and colours that feel grown-up without being boring. Their silk-cotton blend knits are standouts, typically priced between £59-£99, and they wear exceptionally well season after season.

Jigsaw is your go-to for classic British knitwear done right. Their spring collection features gorgeous textured knits and pointelle details, with a focus on natural fibres. Prices range from £55-£120, and their cashmere-cotton blends are particularly impressive. The fit is reliably good across their range.

Whistles consistently delivers contemporary, well-made knits that feel current without being trendy. Their spring pieces include beautiful open-weave designs and cropped styles in on-point colours. Expect to pay £65-£120, but the construction quality and styling potential make them wardrobe workhorses.

Reiss offers premium-quality basics with considered detailing. Their fine-gauge knits are particularly strong, with excellent colour selection and reliable sizing. Price range sits at £58-£140, and their cashmere blend pieces are worth the investment for the longevity alone.

M&S has genuinely impressive knitwear this spring, particularly their Autograph range. Their cashmere options at under £100 are exceptional value, and their pure cotton knits wash beautifully. They've clearly invested in better design and it shows—silhouettes are modern and flattering.

White Stuff excels at cosy, textured knits with personality. Their spring range includes lovely cable-knit details and interesting colour combinations. Prices are accessible at £35-£75, and their quality-to-price ratio is excellent. Perfect if you want knitwear that feels characterful rather than basic.

Albaray is an independent British brand creating beautiful, considered knitwear from sustainable fibres. Their spring collection features elegant, relaxed silhouettes in natural tones, with prices around £85-£150. The attention to detail and ethical production make them a brilliant discovery.

Birdie offers contemporary knitwear with a focus on organic cotton and responsible manufacturing. Their spring pieces include striking stripe details and flattering cuts, priced between £75-£125. It's independent British design at its finest—modern, wearable, and thoughtfully made.

Premium and Luxury Options Worth the Investment

For premium picks, Max Mara remains unbeatable for luxurious cashmere and impeccable tailoring. Their spring knits are investment pieces that last decades, typically priced from £450 upwards. The craftsmanship is extraordinary.

Loro Piana represents the absolute pinnacle of knitwear luxury. Their baby cashmere and silk-cashmere blends are impossibly soft, with prices starting around £800. If you're looking for heirloom-quality pieces, this is it.

Brunello Cucinelli combines Italian craftsmanship with sustainable practices. Their spring knits feature exquisite detailing and divine colours, priced from £600. The quality and fit are consistently superb.

Finding Your Perfect Fit with Tellar.co.uk

Here's where shopping for knitwear gets genuinely easier. Tellar.co.uk is the UK's leading sizing tool that matches your body exactly to over 1,500 brands instantly—meaning you never have to wrestle with confusing size guides again. Knitwear sizing can be particularly tricky since different brands have wildly different ideas about what constitutes a 'medium', but Tellar solves this beautifully.

Here's how it works: Measure once using your bust, waist, hip measurements, or simply input your existing size from a brand that fits you well. Then use their Store Size Lookup tool to get your precise size in any brand—whether that's Cos, Reiss, Max Mara, or any of the 1,500+ brands they cover. It's always free, requires no downloads, and works seamlessly in your browser.

Beyond sizing, Tellar also offers a Fashion Hub—a library stacked with free posts from expert stylists covering every fashion query imaginable. It's honest, unbiased, independent, and always free. Whether you need style advice, top picks, or brand recommendations, it's an invaluable resource for building a smarter wardrobe.

Final Thoughts

Spring 2026 knitwear is refreshingly wearable—there's something for everyone, whether you're drawn to minimalist Cos cardigans or investment Loro Piana pieces. The key is choosing versatile, well-made pieces in colours and textures that genuinely work with your existing wardrobe. And with tools like Tellar making sizing infinitely simpler, there's really no excuse not to get it right first time.

Happy shopping!