&Daughter
Best for: Modern classics
This independent British knitwear brand is a fashion editor go-to for beautifully made, modern-yet-timeless knits that are crafted from responsibly sourced cashmere and wool. &Daughter works with just five yarns and five makers based in Scotland and Ireland, while each garment is spun, linked and finished by hand to ensure the highest quality. Top of our wishlist? The bang-on-trend Edith polo jumper in the perfect poppy red, that looks as cool now as it will in ten years’ time.
Navygrey
Best for: Everyday basics
If your winter uniform largely consists of jeans and a nice jumper, chances are you’ll already be well-acquainted with Navygrey. The female-founded brand specialises in ‘proper jumpers’ of the kind your parents and grandparents have been wearing for years, and are a veritable wardrobe essential. Think relaxed-fit, chunky crew-necks and oversize funnel styles in a variety of neutral shades, made from natural, 100% Scottish-spun lambswool.
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Bella Freud
Best for: Slogan jumpers
Missed out on Bella Freud’s recent M&S collaboration collection? Fear not, for the British designer’s namesake brand offers an even larger selection of knitted delights, from the ‘Ginsberg is God’ jumper made famous by Kate Moss to the brand’s cult 1970s style in fresh new colourways. We’ll take one of everything.
Begg x Co
Best for: Luxury cashmere
Begg x Co cashmere is undoubtedly some of the best in the world, and it all comes from Scotland. Founded more than 150 years ago in Paisley, the brand still uses traditional techniques, local wool and homegrown craftspeople to ensure its every item is of the highest quality and softest feel. The scarves and throws are legendary, but don’t sleep on the brightly coloured jumpers and new graphic designs.
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Rise & Fall
Best for: Affordable knitwear
Rise & Fall went viral last winter thanks to its £95 cashmere hood, and it’s been top of our list for affordable knitwear ever since. The British-based brand distinguishes itself by using the same luxury materials and manufacturers as its big-brand counterparts but minus the massive mark-ups – you’ll even see the prices of each product’s designer equivalent on the site, so you know exactly how much you’re saving. Even better, Rise & Fall is now B Corp certified and has eliminated all harsh chemicals from its supply chain to boot.
Madeleine Thompson
Best for: Fashion-forward designs
If you prefer your knitwear with a contrast frill, fashion-forward cut, funky print, or all of the above combined, look no further than Madeleine Thompson. The London-based designer first burst onto the scene some years ago with her rainbow-stripe cashmere – that’s still the height of cool today – but has since expanded her collections to include everything from updated monochrome basics to cosy lounge sets.
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Brora
Best for: Cosy cashmere
Once the temperatures drop below 5 degrees celsius, there’s little more comforting than venturing out for a cosy, fire-side pub lunch – and you’ll want to be wearing some Brora cashmere for the occasion. The Scottish knitwear brand offers a more classic countryside aesthetic, but simply add some horseshoe jeans and chunky leather biker boots to instantly make it city-ready. Brora’s gloves, beanies and scarves make brilliant, no-brainer Christmas gifts, too.
Hades
Best for: Knitwear with attitude
Drawing inspiration from counter-culture, radical figures, ideas, and history, Hades offers knitwear with a big dose of British eccentricity and attitude. Think collections designed in collaboration with the likes of Iggy Pop and Tilda Swinton, cardigans with cigarette-shaped buttons and XXL scarves personalised with initials or emblazoned with tongue-in-cheek phrases.
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Barrie
Best for: Next-level luxury
One of the oldest cashmere knitting manufacturers in Scotland and a part of Chanel’s Métiers d’Art since 2012, Barrie is synonymous with the highest level of luxury and craftsmanship. Its designs will, understandably, set you back a pretty penny, but you can splurge safe in the knowledge that this is an investment for life. Be sure to check out the brand’s just-launched denim capsule, that is the ultimate expression of Barrie’s blend of innovation and heritage.
Slow Love
Best for: Oversized knits
This sister-founded British brand only launched in 2022, but it already counts the likes of Emma Watson, Hilary Clinton and a number of fashion editors among its fans. We’re not surprised: its signature slouchy jumpers make for the ultimate lazy day look, while the colourful graphic designs provide enough joy to brighten even the greyest of winter days. On top of this, all pieces are hand-knitted, made from natural materials and released in small collections to eliminate waste. Welcome to your new obsession.
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Bamford
Best for: Countryside chic
Bamford’s candles, beauty products and spas are already the stuff of legend, but did you know that the cult British brand crafts excellent knitwear, too? Made from durable, natural fibres and cut to be both comfy and effortlessly chic, Bamford’s jumpers are the epitome of quiet luxury and much-loved by the smart countryside set and city kids alike.
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