Knit fabrics are always popular, though some more than others. In the past couple of seasons, we’ve seen an uptick in comfortable, yet luxurious knit fabrics. Let’s take a look at the knit fabrics we’ve seen in the past year, and how they might be utilized for Spring 2019.
Chunky Knit
The chunky knit is a staple fabric. From sweaters to dresses, it’s perfect for keeping warm. Alejandra Alonso Rojas’ lovely sweater is perfect for chilled spring nights, while Cynthia Rowley’s chunky cardigan is perfect for fall afternoons. Isabel Marant’s chunky knit sweater looks like the boyfriend’s sweater the girlfriend steals, and Prabal Gurung’s chunky knit, mesh sweater looks like the girlfriend’s sweater that I steal. These chunky knit garments are indicative of a turn towards more comfortable fashions while staying cute. I expect to see a lot of chunky knit sweater dresses paired with tights.

Alejandra Alonso Rojas | Fall 2018 Ready-to-Wear

Cynthia Rowley | Fall 2018 Ready-to-Wear

Isabel Marant | Fall 2018 Ready-to-Wear

Prabal Gurung | Spring 2018 Ready-to-Wear
Take a look at these chunky knits:

Beige and Black Novelty Virgin Wool Knit with Chunky Knit Design
Rib Knits
Rib knits are wonderful fabrics, as they can be fitted or slouchy, thin or thick. Chloe shows off the diversity of rib knits with a thicker dress with a fitted torso and looser sleeves, while Sportmax shows a fitted torso and pleated skirt. Les Copains bishop sleeved rib knit is ideal for fall evenings, while TSE’s flared tank is perfect for summer styles. The popularity of rib knits shows a move towards textured, versatile fabrics, so I expect to see a lot more rib knit dresses, layered with cardigans.

Chloe | Fall 2018 Ready-to-Wear

Les Copains | Fall 2018 Ready-to-Wear

Sportmax | Spring 2018 Ready-to-Wear

TSE | Spring 2018 Ready-to-Wear
Check out these rib knits:
Spandex
Spandex, the stretchy, slinky fabric of athleisure has made its way down many a runway. Aatlo’s fabulous high waisted leggings are perfect for grabbing a coffee or going for a run, while Linder’s lined leggings look too cute to sweat in. R13’s woodsy jumper pairs athleisure with folksy living beautifully, ideal for going for a run during a cabin vacation. The popularity of spandex is just a reminder that athleisure is here to stay, as we see more garments infused with this expanding fabric.

Aatlo | Resort 2019

Linder | Fall 2018 Ready-to-Wear

R13 | Fall 2018 Ready-to-Wear
Select one of these spandex fabrics:
Velour
Velour is stretchy and sophisticated, the ultimate in luxury. Diane von Furstenberg’s stunning humper features a deep v to die for, while Dundas shows a beautiful dress with lovely embellishments. Juicy Couture reverts back to an oldy but a goody with a black velour sweatsuit with a sequined cardigan and Valentino’s maxi dress features fabulous leg slits and is paired with some stunning hair. Velour is luxurious and comfortable, something we’ll start to see more of on the runway, like ruched body-conscious dresses in an eighties revival.

Diane von Furstenberg | Fall 2018 Ready-to-Wear

Dundas | Fall 2018 Ready-to-Wear

Juicy Couture | Fall 2018 Ready-to-Wear

Valentino | Fall 2018 Ready-to-Wear
Feel fabulous with these fabrics:
What knit fabrics are you working with? I love a good chunky knit. Let me know in the comments!