Every season the runways give knitters a fresh wave of inspiration, and fall and winter 2026 is a wonderful one for anyone who loves to make their own sweaters. Classic shapes are back, texture is everywhere, and heritage patterns like Fair Isle and argyle are getting a modern refresh.
Here are the knitwear trends I am most excited about this season, with notes on where they were spotted and how to knit or crochet them yourself.
1. The Revived V-Neck
The V-neck is having a real moment. Grazia calls it "back from corporate exile," and it layers beautifully over collared shirts, camisoles, or simply on its own.
How to knit it: A top-down raglan is the easiest way to knit a V-neck, because you can try it on as you go and shape the neckline exactly where you want it. Our The Autumn Sweater Knitting Pattern is a top-down V-neck raglan designed as a timeless, elevated basic.
2. Argyle and Preppy Knits
Argyle came back strong. Coveteur pointed to Zankov layering argyle on argyle and Khaite pairing a chunky argyle knit with opera gloves, and Grazia notes preppy polos and argyle from brands including Reformation and Ferragamo.
How to knit it: Traditional argyle is worked with intarsia, but you can get the look with stranded colorwork diamonds too. A vest is a great first argyle project because there are no sleeves to colorwork.
3. Fair Isle and Heritage Colorwork
At Copenhagen Fashion Week, Vogue Scandinavia highlighted Fair Isle from labels including The Garment, Ranra, and Skall Studio, calling the season's knitwear "set to define winter 2026 wardrobes."
How to knit it: Start small with a colorwork hat before committing to a full yoke. Our The Cypress Beanie Knitting Pattern is a classic Fair Isle hat, and the The Dewdrop Beanie Knitting Pattern is inspired by vintage filigree. If charts feel intimidating, our guide on how to read a knitting chart will help.
4. Sculptural Cables and Aran
Cables are back, but with a twist. KnitPro's fall 2026 trend report describes "uneven, architectural cable patterns" giving traditional Aran a contemporary feel.
How to knit it: Cable hats and mittens are a cozy way in. Try The Cedar Beanie Knitting Pattern or The Grove Mittens Knitting Pattern.
5. Broad Shoulders and Sweater Dresses
Silhouettes are taking up space. Coveteur noted boxy knits with defined shoulders at Tory Burch and a balloon shape at Carolina Herrera, along with sweater dresses from Proenza Schouler (long and slightly slouchy) and Isabel Marant (mini).
How to knit it: Look for drop-shoulder or oversized patterns and add length. Many top-down sweaters can be lengthened into a tunic or dress simply by continuing the body, as long as you plan extra yarn.
6. Chocolate Brown and Rich, Deep Colors
Grazia says designers "from Hermès to Tod's" have anointed chocolate brown "the new black." Yarn industry reports on the autumn/winter 2026/27 yarn fairs point the same way, with deep brown, khaki green, and burgundy leading the color story.
How to knit it: Choose a deep brown, olive, or burgundy for a classic pattern you already love. A simple sweater in a rich color feels instantly current.
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7. Draped Knits, Capes, and Scarf-Neck Sweaters
For anyone who is always cold, Grazia highlights draped knits, capes, and sweaters with built-in scarf necks. An oversized scarf or wrap is the easiest way to knit into this trend.
8. Back-to-Basics Knitting
Alongside the statement pieces, KnitPro points out that "simple top-down raglans, stockinette sweaters, and garter-stitch designs are gaining popularity." This is my favorite trend of all: beautiful, well-fitting basics you will wear for years.
Our The Nova Sweater Knitting Pattern and The Mistfall Sweater Knitting Pattern are both classic raglan pullovers in this spirit.
Crochet Trends for Fall 2026
Crochet is right there with knitting this season. KnitPro highlights modern granny squares and patchwork (cardigans, bags, and blankets in unexpected color combinations) and textured, 3D crochet with "bobble stitches, dimensional flowers, raised motifs, open meshwork, and sculptural textures." Hand-dyed yarns are recommended because subtle color shifts make textured stitches pop.
Want to try the granny square trend? Browse our crochet patterns and start with a classic square.
How to Make These Trends Your Own
- Start with one detail. A V-neck, a bit of argyle, or a rich brown yarn can make a classic pattern feel new.
- Invest in timeless shapes. Trends come and go, but a well-fitting raglan in good wool lasts for years.
- Try something small first. Hats, mittens, and cowls are perfect for testing colorwork and cables.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the biggest knitwear trends for fall 2026?
Revived V-necks, argyle, Fair Isle, sculptural cables, broad shoulders, sweater dresses, chocolate brown, and draped or scarf-neck knits are among the most talked-about trends.
Is argyle in style for 2026?
Yes. Argyle appeared on fall 2026 runways, including at Zankov and Khaite, and preppy argyle knits are showing up widely.
What color sweaters are trending this winter?
Chocolate brown is the standout, along with deep khaki green, burgundy, and rich neutrals like camel, charcoal, and cream.
What is trending in crochet for fall 2026?
Modern granny squares, patchwork garments and bags, and textured 3D crochet with bobbles and dimensional flowers.
Trend sources: Coveteur, Grazia, Vogue Scandinavia, KnitPro, and Knitting Industry.