Knit Jumper - Women

It’s time to talk jumpers!

When the temperatures start to cool, you’ll likely find yourself reaching into your wardrobe for a second layer, or start searching for some enticing knits online. There’s nothing cosier than popping on a jumper in winter, so it’s time to start coveting some stylish knits, and consider ordering yourself some jumpers for the new season.

Why are we talking about jumpers? Because they are among the most functional items you could have in your wardrobe. Jumpers come in all sorts of shapes, knits, colours, patterns and thicknesses. You can wear a jumper with nothing beneath, or your jumper can be one of many layers in the cool seasons. A jumper can easily be placed into your bag so you know it’s there when you need it. Overall, it’s an essential fashion item that deserves discussion.

Let’s take a look at some of the jumper trends in Australia, and review how to care for your beloved jumpers.

Jumper Trends
While it is known with many names including sweater, jersey and pullover among others, regardless of the name, Australian women love their jumpers, and no matter the season, there’s always a case for having a few jumper options in the wardrobe.

During the warmer months, cotton knit jumpers are a perfect layer to keep your arms warm on cool nights. Keep them in your bag when you don’t need them because their light weight will certainly not weigh you down.

In Autumn you can start opting for sturdier knits, however, being on the cusp of hot and cold, you might still need lightweight options like an oversized stretchy knit jumper, longline cardigan or a balloon sleeve jumper.

In Winter, on the other hand, you can pull out those thicker knits, like soft and fluffy knitted jumpers or cable knitwear. Basically, there’s a jumper style for every season, and having a variety will serve you well. Here’s some trends looming.
Crew neck:
Crew neck jumpers aren’t exactly a new trend – they are a permanent trend in jumpers for women in Australia, mainly because the crew neck works so well across all seasons. You get yourself a jumper to keep you warm, but your neck isn’t too hot, which is kind of the right wardrobe piece for our volatile weather. A crew neck also looks great on most wearers, and you can generally access a range of subtle jumpers in neutral colours that are great for casual wear or for work, and also bold colours for all occasions that are a little more fun. Ultimately, the crew neck is your go-to jumper, no matter the season.
Textures Galore:
Knitwear with a whole lot of texture is set to be on trend this coming winter. Think jumpers with open holes, cable knits, ones that include a mix of stitches in the one garment, and crochet numbers. Overall, the added texture creates visual interest, and cancels out any chance of looking bland.

Loud and Proud:
Thought the trend for bright and bold jumpers had gone away? Well, it doesn’t look like it’s going anywhere. After all, what better way to lift your mood (and everyone else’s) than in a loud jumper? We’re talking 1980s, Jenny Kee style knits. If you’re lucky, you’ll still find the originals in vintage stores, but otherwise, there are plenty of new and colourful jumper designs being created, in various knit thicknesses.

Traditional Knits:
The appeal of traditional knits, like the Aran knit (cable knit), is seemingly endless. These kinds of jumpers are thick and sturdy, yet soften with wear, so they’re warm and comfortable and will last an eternity. You can also pretty easily patch up any little holes with these traditional knits. Many countries, particularly those in cold regions of the world, will manufacture their own versions of these types of jumpers, often using a unique knit, or at the least, calling it by their own special name. Do some research to find your forever jumper!

Homemade:
There’s nothing like a jumper you knitted yourself, or one hand-knitted by someone special in your life and gifted to you. You could even commission one! The great thing with hand-knitted jumpers is that you can choose the exact type of material you prefer, and the jumper style. Get those knitting needles out and get knitting!

Balloon Sleeves:
The balloon sleeve jumper is looking popular this winter. Again, the shape of the sleeves offers up something a little different in terms of aesthetics. It’s a bit of a romantic and regal look with a feminine edge. So if you want to mix up your range of jumpers in your wardrobe, consider a balloon sleeve as part of your collection!

Jumper Fabrics
There’s a wide range of fabrics used to make jumpers. For starters, wool is popular, and whether it comes from a sheep, goat or alpaca, you can be guaranteed that a wool jumper will keep you warm in winter. In saying that, there are wool/cotton and wool/bamboo blends these days that are a little cooler and can be worn across seasons.

Then you have your knits made from cotton, bamboo, viscose, plus synthetic fibres, like nylon, elastane and polyester, which make for stretchier jumpers. In regards to daily use, the synthetic options can be great, as they can be easily machine washed and tend to maintain their shape well.

As a whole, it’s good to have a mix of natural fibre and synthetic jumper options in your wardrobe, so you have something for every temperature and mood you’re in.

Colours and Patterns
There’s no end to the variety of jumper patterns and colours out there. Take your pick of stripey jumpers, argyle knits, cable knits, jumpers with pictures knitted in, or jumpers knitted from sparkly metallic fibres. There are also an array of jumpers in plain block colours, or in neutral colours.

When choosing colours, think of the occasion. For work, it’s most likely that you might choose neutral-coloured jumpers that complement your hair and complexion, and tie in well with your outfit as a whole. For a weekend party, you might go for a bold jumper colour, or an interesting jumper shape or knit design.

Caring for jumpers
While some jumpers are sturdy beasts, others can be delicate little flowers. Regardless of which, it’s important to give your jumpers a whole lot of love when washing and drying them, especially if you want them to go the distance.

For starters, always follow the care instructions on your jumper’s label. Different fabrics require different care. Wool, for example, is best washed in cold to luke-warm water. Certainly don’t go over 30℃ or you risk shrinking your amazing jumper, and once a wool jumper has shrunk, it’s almost impossible to reverse it! So keep it cool, and use a detergent designed for wool, as you want your jumper staying soft.

Cotton jumpers can handle higher temperatures, although it’s best to stick to around 40℃, and never exceed 60℃.

Synthetic jumpers are also best washed in lukewarm water, as high temperatures can break down their fibres.

If you machine wash your jumper, it’s wise to turn it inside out so that the exterior doesn’t rub up against other garments in the machine. It’s also important to avoid washing your jumper with fabrics with rough exteriors or with clothing with metal buttons and zips, as these could hook onto your jumper and either cause pilling, or individual strands of knits to get pulled out. Also remember to wash similar colours together, and when drying, drying flat in the shade is always the best option for your jumpers.


To conclude, it's time to consider what jumpers you are going to choose for the coming seasons! From the timeless appeal of crew necks to the allure of textured knits, there's a jumper style out there for every Australian woman. Whether you prefer traditional, homemade, or loud and proud designs, the choices are endless. Just remember to care for your jumper with love – follow the label instructions, wash gently, and dry them flat in the shade if you can. With the right knowledge, your jumpers will not only keep you stylish but will also stand the test of time. So, dive into the joy of jumpers and make a statement in every season!