The Knitting Revival: Small Brands Stitching Big Change
Lisa Armstrong’s knitwear recommendations are proof that you don’t need to spend a fortune to look and feel luxurious. From affordable cashmere at £79 to high-quality staples for layering, this guide uncovers the best-value knitwear for autumn and winter. Learn how to shop smart, spot quality, and care for your knits like a pro.
In a perfect world, British fashion would be thriving, with young people eagerly learning traditional crafts and sustainable shopping becoming the norm. Sadly, that’s not quite the reality right now.
Yet, amid the challenges, one bright trend keeps gaining momentum: the knitwear revival. Though the combined sales of indie knitwear brands may seem tiny compared to giants like Shein, these small innovators are making meaningful waves.
Take &Daughter, founded a decade ago by Buffy Reid. The brand is a shining example of quality craftsmanship—offering luxurious yarns, timeless designs with just the right relaxed details, like a thoughtful collar or raglan sleeve instead of the usual set-in style. The only downside? Without a physical store, you have to rely on online shopping, which means missing out on experiencing the true depth of their colours and cuts firsthand.
Can You Really Get Great Cashmere for Under £80?
When we hear “cashmere,” many of us instantly think of triple-digit price tags and ultra-high maintenance. But Lisa Armstrong, one of Britain’s most respected fashion journalists, has proven otherwise.
She recently shared her curated finds for the best-quality knitwear of the season—highlighting a luxe-feeling cashmere jumper for just £79. In an era where fashion inflation is real and value matters more than ever, that kind of discovery is gold.
In this article, we’ll explore:
- Lisa’s top knitwear picks (including where to find them)
- How to identify great-quality knits at lower prices
- The truth about affordable cashmere
- Tips for making knitwear last longer
- Budget-friendly brands delivering luxury for less
1. Lisa Armstrong’s Affordable Knitwear Finds: Style Meets Substance
Lisa Armstrong’s seasonal edit focuses on practical, flattering pieces made from high-quality yarns—but without luxury price tags.
Top pick: Cashmere under £80
- A standout? Pure Collection’s 100% cashmere crewneck jumper for £79
- Soft, warm, and available in rich seasonal tones
- Comparable in feel to items twice the price
Other smart buys from Lisa’s list:
- Wool-blend turtlenecks from Uniqlo – minimalist, warm, and £34.90
- Chunky cable knits at Arket – premium feel under £100
- Merino wool cardigans at Cos – breathable, temperature-regulating
2. What Makes Knitwear “High Quality”?
Not all knits are created equal. Lisa Armstrong recommends looking beyond the label.
Check for quality signs like:
- Tight, even stitching (no sagging or loose threads)
- Natural fibers like wool, alpaca, merino, and cashmere
- Weight and density – quality knits feel substantial
- No excessive pilling after light wear
- Stitch definition – patterns should be crisp and clear
The best-value knits often come from mid-range brands investing in craftsmanship over logos.
3. Is Cheap Cashmere Too Good to Be True?
Surprisingly, no. While luxury cashmere can cost £200–£500, more accessible options are possible thanks to:
- Smaller profit margins at direct-to-consumer brands
- Ethically sourced fibers from Mongolia and China
- Streamlined manufacturing processes
Lisa’s £79 pick proves quality and affordability can co-exist—as long as you know where to shop.
Pro Tip: Wash cashmere in cool water with baby shampoo and dry flat. Well-cared-for cheap cashmere can last years.
4. Smart Knitwear Shopping: Lisa’s Insider Tips
Lisa Armstrong’s decades in fashion journalism have taught her to prioritize function and feel over hype.
Her shopping advice includes:
- Buy neutrals for maximum versatility (camel, grey, navy, cream)
- Test texture in-store—does it itch or glide?
- Look for blended fabrics like wool-silk for softness and shape retention
- Check care instructions – some knits are machine-washable
If you find a style that fits and flatters, buy multiples in different colours—it’s the foundation of a great cold-weather wardrobe.
5. The Brands Delivering Premium Knitwear on a Budget
Aside from luxury brands, Lisa spotlights retailers offering real value this season:
- Pure Collection – affordable, certified cashmere
- Uniqlo – high-tech HeatTech and wool blends
- Arket – scandi-style, eco-conscious knits under £100
- Marks & Spencer – improved quality basics, often under £50
- Cos – elevated staples with longer lifespans
These brands offer design, quality, and comfort at a fraction of designer prices.
6. Care Tips to Extend the Life of Your Knitwear
Lisa stresses that proper maintenance is the key to making even affordable knitwear last.
Must-do care steps:
- Hand wash or use a gentle wool cycle
- Avoid over-washing—airing out between wears works wonders
- Use a sweater comb or fabric shaver to manage pilling
- Store folded, not hung, to avoid stretching
- Moth-proof your storage (lavender sachets or cedar balls)
FAQs
1. Can you really get good cashmere for under £80?
Yes! Brands like Pure Collection now offer high-quality cashmere jumpers starting at £79.
2. Is blended knitwear worth buying?
Absolutely. Wool-silk or wool-cotton blends often offer better durability and comfort than pure fibers.
3. How can I tell if a knit is good quality?
Check stitching, weight, and texture. It should feel soft but dense, not flimsy.
4. Does cheap knitwear always pill?
Not always—if cared for correctly. Use a de-piller and follow washing instructions.
5. What colours are most versatile for knitwear?
Neutrals like camel, navy, grey, and black work across seasons and styles.
6. Should I hang or fold my knitwear?
Always fold. Hanging stretches knits out of shape.
Conclusion
Lisa Armstrong proves that you don’t need to overspend to get beautiful, high-quality knitwear. With the right knowledge and a few smart shopping tips, you can find cashmere under £80, timeless wool sweaters, and versatile staples that will carry you through winter and beyond.
