Knitwear can be an essential component of our outfits at any time of year, with lightweight knit cardigans keeping our shoulders covered on cool summer evenings, and warm knit dresses making us feel cosy in winter time.
In Australia, where the weather can vary quite a bit depending on season and location, choosing the right knitwear is usually a case of checking the weather report, as well as keeping in mind your plans for the day. Knitwear can be worn in pretty much any setting, so you never really have to go without it, it’s just a case of choosing the right pieces for the event.
Thankfully, Femme Connection can supply you with a wide range of women’s knitwear options, from women’s jumpers, knit vests, and cardigans, to knit dresses and skirts. Let’s look at how we can utilise our knitwear items this year, so that we really show off their strengths!
Aussies and Knitwear: BFFs
Whilst outsiders might perceive Australia to be endlessly hot, we are actually home to a variety of microclimates. Melbourne winters are cool, Tasmanian winters are decidedly freezing, the coasts around Sydney are often breezy, and the traditionally humid temperatures in Brisbane can mellow during winter. In all locations, there’s a case for knitwear. Unless you’re in the Australian tropics, you’ll need knit jumpers and so on, and even in those warm climates, certain lightweight knits still come in handy, as ways to cover up from the sun or on cool nights. Thankfully, that gives everyone a good excuse to buy a range of different knits in different fabrics.
But what to wear in which region?
In warmer climates, lightweight knitwear is ideal, (no one wants to be bogged down by a heavy, dense knit). Also, when it’s warm, you want your knits to be breathable. Plant-derived knit fabrics, like cotton and viscose, are the best option for hot climates, as they draw perspiration away from the body and allow it to dry off. They also allow for airflow.
In colder parts of Australia, heavier knit fabrics will offer more insulation and warmth. They’ll also feel cosier. Wool is traditionally popular, but synthetic knit jumpers and cardigans, like polyester blends, will be easy to care for and often a little lighter to wear than wool. They are also less likely to be irritating to those with sensitive skin, whereas some people can find the texture of pure wool to be a little scratchy.
Even in summer, if you’re indoors under air conditioning, it’s not unusual to find yourself feeling freezing. That’s where light knit cardigans and vests shine—they’re easy to pop over a t-shirt or dress to add warmth when needed, and when you’re done with them, they easily fit into your bag.
The Right Knit for the Season
Here’s some ideas for styling your knitwear according to the season, climate and occasion.
Autumn: A Magical Transition
Knitwear really comes into its own in Autumn, when the heat of summer says goodbye and temperatures start to dip. It’s the time we start reaching for long sleeved knitwear, like cardigans and jumpers. We might even opt for a knit skirt worn with a blouse or t-shirt. Chunky knits, such as cable knit jumpers, make an appearance.
Sample autumn ensemble:
Choose a ribbed knit jumper in a warm tone and pair it with a midi skirt. A satin skirt or a skirt with a print will offer a nice contrast with the ribbed knit. Then, add a trench coat and ankle boots.
Winter: Bring on the Warmth and Layers
Winter calls for thicker knit fabrics, full length sleeves, high necklines, and even hoods. This is also the season to play with textures—cable knits and waffle knit finishes offer both comfort and textural interest. Keep things stylish and simple to care for by opting for polyester blends or woolly acrylics. These fabrics also keep you warm and toasty.
Sample winter ensemble:
Try pairing a longline hooded knit cardigan with a fitted top and wide-leg trousers. Layer with a structured winter coat and ankle boots for a chic dinner or office look.
Spring: Structured yet Breezy
Bring on the crisp mornings and warm afternoons! Spring in Australia is all about lightening things up. The heavy knits get packed away, and lightweight knits are employed. Cropped cardigans, knit vests, and short-sleeve knits work beautifully for spring layering. Opt for cotton or viscose blends for breathable, airy options.
Sample spring ensemble:
Put together a lightweight knit vest with a white collared shirt. Pair with a denim skirt and sneakers. Carry a lightweight knit cardigan in your bag for cooler evenings.
Summer: Light & Airy with Style to Spare
While knitwear might not be the first thing you reach for in summer, the right knit fabric makes all the difference. Look for open-weave styles, loose fits, and short sleeve or sleeveless knits. Waterfall and longline cardigans and open-weave knit dresses will offer the coverage you need if it gets cool in the evenings. Viscose, linen and cotton will all be nice and breathable, whilst still offering a soft knit texture.
Sample summer ensemble:
A linen waterfall cardigan worn over a tank top, with high-waisted pants, a statement belt and summer sandals will look stylish and simple. Add a wide-brim hat and tote bag for a beachside brunch or shopping day.
Fabric Matters: What to Wear, When
- Cotton, Linen & Viscose: Lightweight, breathable, and ideal for layering in spring/summer or in year-round warm climates.
- Polyester blends: These are great for autumn and winter as they retain heat, resist wrinkles and offer form fitting benefits.
- Acrylic & Wool-blends: Cosy and warm—these knits are perfect for cold regions and for the depths of winter.
- Elastane-blended knits: These knits offer stretch whilst retaining their shape. They are often used in fitted skirts and bodycon knits.
Layering Like a Pro
Knitwear is one of the most layering-friendly fashion categories. Here’s how to get creative with it:
- Base layer: A slim-fit knit jumper under a structured blazer gives you warmth without the bulk.
- Outer layer: Longline cardigans and cropped knits worn over tees or blouses help create dimension.
- Layered over knitwear: Pair heavier jackets, puffers, or trench coats over your knitwear to create an insulating but polished ensemble.
For those chilly air-conditioned offices or shopping centres, consider keeping a light cardigan on hand—even if the sun’s blazing outside.
Dressing for the Occasion
What you wear isn’t just about the weather—it’s also about the vibe. Here’s how to match your knitwear to the setting:
- Work: Opt for fitted knits in neutral tones. A knit pencil skirt with a matching fine-gauge knit top looks polished and professional. Avoid anything overly bulky.
- Brunch or coffee date: Consider opting for pastel knits or slouchy jumpers paired with jeans or a midi skirt. This will give you a soft, relaxed look to match your relaxed weekend vibe.
- Night out: Try a knit dress with statement accessories. Or go bold with a structured cropped knit jumper and vegan leather pants.
- Weekend errands: Layer a hooded knit cardigan over a tank and leggings for comfort with style.
What’s Trending in Knitwear Right Now
Australian knitwear trends are leaning into comfort with shape. Some of the top knitwear trends you’ll see right now:
- Matching knit sets (think jumper + skirt or crop + cardi combos)
- Cropped knits worn with high-waisted bottoms
- Sleeveless knits and vests
- Bold colours like fuchsia, royal blue, and earthy rusts
- Textured knits—cable, waffle and ribbed finishes
- Oversized cardigans with dropped shoulders and relaxed fits
Knitwear at Femme Connection
The secret to choosing the right women’s knitwear for Australia’s ever-changing weather is variety. Stock your wardrobe with a mix of weights, fabrics and styles so you're always prepared—whether you’re braving a cold snap in Melbourne or dealing with tropical warmth up north.
With Femme Connection’s broad knitwear collection, you’ll find everything from statement knit dresses to classic knit cardigans and jumpers that will see you through every season and setting—stylishly and comfortably.
See our sale knitwear for the great deals on stylish women’s knitwear.