With contributions from labels like Eckhaus Latta, Ottolinger, Dries Van Noten, and others, it’s no surprise that V-neck sweaters are back on the menu.
For much of the last decade—or more—V-neck sweaters have been off the cards, outlawed and reserved for cartoon librarians and Mark Wahlberg. But with prep’s resurgence complete and the ’00s now a pillar for 2024 style moodboards, the V-neck sweater has crept back into the zeitgeist to take advantage of the circular motion of fashion’s trend cycle. Whether it’s channeling the refined cashmere V-neck sweaters of the Ivy League or the nostalgic allure of ’00s culture—think Jacob Elordi’s Saltburn character—brands like Eckhaus Latta, Barena, and Acne Studios exemplify the full range of the style.
While V-neck sweaters can be seen from the perspective of multiple trends, the crux of the item’s popularity is that high-end knitwear is always in style. Yes, V-neck sweaters have experienced a rise in popularity over recent seasons, which has made them more prevalent in the upper echelons of fashion, but there is never a time when a cashmere or merino wool V-neck sweater doesn’t look good. With that in mind, this list encompasses all of the qualities of the V-neck; From sporty iterations to quiet luxury editions, the styles vary, but what stays steadfast is the timelessness of refined knitwear.
Dries Van Noten Black V-Neck Sweater
This Dries Van Noten V-neck sweater hinges on its regal yellow and red trim, which leans into prep’s long visual history. Made from pure merino wool, it’s a lightweight layer that’s ideal for the transitional season.
Ottolinger Black Skull Sweater
Characterized by a large skull print on the chest, this Ottolinger cotton V-neck sweater for women features a rib-knit texture which adds reassuring weight and coziness. A cropped body and oversize arms work to relax the silhouette.
Kijun Blue Rugby Polo
Korean fashion brands are killing it right now, making the country’s design output one of the most exciting prospects for the year ahead. A host of young brands like Kijun offer up everything from high-end basics to prep classics, like this rugby polo that has a slim collar and bold V-neck.
COMME des GARÇONS PLAY Blue Heart Patch Sweater
COMME des GARÇONS PLAY can usually be identified by the signature heart patch on the chest. This pastel blue women’s V-neck sweater forgoes the usual branding, shrinking the patch and relocating it to the cuff to streamline the ultra clean aesthetic.
TOTEME Black Petite Sweater
When bright colors and detailing aren’t an option, emphasizing texture is an easy way to draw attention. TOTEME’s Petite Sweater does this with aplomb, using an alpaca-blend fabric to give the V-neck sweater a shaggy finish.
LISA YANG Khaki ‘The Loup’ Sweater
Pure cashmere V-neck sweaters are always on trend, and LISA YANG’s ‘The Loup’ Sweater proves it. Executed in a muted khaki hue, this sweater features a rib knit throughout as well as subtle detailing like tonal stripes to the arms and a droptail hem.
Marni Yellow Fuzzy Wuzzy Flowers Sweater
Marni’s mohair is, at this point, an iconic aspect of modern fashion. Few can rival the shaggy texture or bold colorways that typify the label’s mohair masterpieces. The Fuzzy Wuzzy Flowers Sweater features a cropped silhouette, but that’s overshadowed by the bold two-tone background and floral display on the chest.
Barena Black V-Neck Sweater
Venetian heritage brand Barena never strays too far from the path it’s beaten over the past 30 years. Subtle palettes, classic tailoring, and high-quality fabrics are the name of the game, and this men’s black V-neck sweater fits all of those categories.
Flecks of highlighter yellow jump out from the dark navy backdrop to act as the driving personality behind this Eckhaus Latta V-neck sweater. Neutral brown trims to the neckline and cuffs complement the navy mohair construction.
Acne Studios Gray V-Neck Sweater
While the other iterations on this list have mostly stuck to the classic playbook of knitwear, Acne Studios attaches a V-neck to a sporty gray sweater instead. The outcome is an intriguing blend of prep and sportswear that’s big on versatility.
- Date: February 1, 2024
Related Stories
Next Story
TEN OF THE BEST COLORFUL SNEAKERS FOR BRIGHTER WEATHER With the power to brighten up the darkest day, colorful sneakers can kickstart spring/summer joy.