Knitwear refers to clothing items that are knitted rather than woven. This means they are constructed from a single continuous yarn looped together to create fabric, rather than interlacing two sets of yarns at right angles. This unique construction gives knitwear its characteristic stretch, softness, and drape.
Knitwear is incredibly diverse and can be found in a vast array of garments, from lightweight tops to heavy outer layers.
Key Characteristics of Knitwear:
Stretch and Flexibility: Due to the looping construction, knit fabrics are inherently stretchy, providing comfort and ease of movement.
Softness: Many knit fabrics feel soft against the skin, making them popular for everyday wear.
Drape: Knitted fabrics often drape well, conforming to the body’s contours.
Warmth (often): Many natural fibers used in knitwear (like wool, cashmere) are excellent insulators, making knitwear a staple for cooler weather.
Texture: Knits can have a wide range of textures, from smooth and flat (like jersey) to highly textured (like cable knit or waffle knit).
Common Types of Knitwear Garments:
Sweaters/Jumpers: The most iconic knitwear item. This category includes:
Pullovers: Worn by pulling over the head.
Crew Neck: Round neckline.
V-Neck: V-shaped neckline.
Turtleneck/Roll Neck: High, close-fitting collar.
Mock Neck: Shorter, less restrictive high collar.
Sweatshirts: Typically made of fleece or French terry, more casual.
Hoodies: Sweatshirts with a hood.
Cardigans: Open-front sweaters, often with buttons or a tie closure.
Knit Tops: Lighter weight tops made from knit fabrics.
T-shirts: Often made from jersey knit.
Polo Shirts: Collared shirts with a few buttons, typically made from pique knit.
Knit Blouses: More refined tops made from lighter knits.
Tank Tops: Sleeveless knit tops.
Dresses & Skirts: Knit dresses and skirts offer comfort and drape.
Sweater Dresses: Heavier knit dresses for warmth.
Jersey Dresses/Skirts: Lighter, often stretchy everyday dresses/skirts.
Accessories:
Scarves, Hats, Gloves: Classic knitted accessories for warmth.
Socks: Almost exclusively made from knit fabrics.
Common Knitwear Fabrics/Stitches:
Jersey Knit: The most common type, with a smooth face and slightly textured back. Used for T-shirts, leggings, and casual dresses.
Rib Knit: Features vertical ridges, offering excellent stretch and recovery. Common for cuffs, collars, and fitted tops.
Purl Knit: Has a bumpy texture on both sides, making it reversible. Often used for cozy sweaters and scarves.
Interlock Knit: A double knit fabric that is thicker and more stable than jersey, with a smooth surface on both sides. Used for polo shirts, dresses, and baby clothes.
French Terry: Loops on one side and a smooth surface on the other, absorbent and comfortable. Ideal for sweatshirts and joggers.
Fleece: A brushed knit fabric with a plush, fuzzy texture, known for warmth. Used in outerwear and loungewear.
Cable Knit: Features raised, twisted patterns, giving a traditional, cozy look.
Waffle Knit (Thermal Knit): Has a distinctive grid-like texture that helps trap warmth.
Pointelle Knit: A delicate knit with small, decorative openwork patterns, often used for feminine tops or lingerie.
Knitwear plays a crucial role in fashion, offering a blend of comfort, style, and adaptability for various seasons and occasions.
Knitwear
Knitwear refers to clothing items that are knitted rather than woven. This means they are constructed from a single continuous yarn looped together to create fabric, rather than interlacing two sets of yarns at right angles. This unique construction gives knitwear its characteristic stretch, softness, and drape.
Knitwear is incredibly diverse and can be found in a vast array of garments, from lightweight tops to heavy outer layers.
Key Characteristics of Knitwear:
Common Types of Knitwear Garments:
Common Knitwear Fabrics/Stitches:
Knitwear plays a crucial role in fashion, offering a blend of comfort, style, and adaptability for various seasons and occasions.