New Zealand designers have lifted the fashion stakes over the past decade when it comes to knitwear. What was once all about the cardigan, the jersey and anything else nana could knit with those needles is now subject to state-of-the art technology, and designers are only limited by their imaginations.

Silhouettes have seen the biggest change, with designers adding extra shape into garments – great for covering any bits you may want to hide over the winter months!  Knitwear is also softer than ever, with designers using luxurious fibres like merino, mohair and angora.

Twenty-Seven Names, Lonely Hearts, Karen Walker
If choosing one piece of knitwear this season, a must-have is the popular cardi. The cardi never goes out of fashion and is a wardrobe staple for the cooler months. This year it’s all about big, baggy and oversized. To make the oversized cardi stand out, designers are telling us to team it with fitted trousers, skinny jeans or a dress. Karen Walker is keeping the jumper alive by throwing it over the top of a short dress for a sexy but casual way of keeping warm this winter.

Nom*d
Nom*d continues to be one of New Zealand’s most progressive fashion houses when it comes to knitwear. The label was originally founded in 1998 as a knitwear brand and continues to push the boundaries of fashion. Nom*d designer Margarita Robertson has used a different mix of knits this season – rib and cables with an asymmetric band. Their winter collection include pieces such as a short textured sweater, half back fisherman’s sweater and a short cardi.

Silverdale, Silverdale by Andrea Moore, Karen Walker
The key trend this winter is chunky and oversized knitwear. Scarves, hats and wraps are all big. They almost look like they were made for three people to share.  When wearing one of these creations, you are certain not to complain of the cold. Colour has emerged as a standout trend in knitwear this season, so don’t be afraid to break away from the easy-to-wear darker colours during winter.