Uniform Buffalo's Guide to Knitwear

This AW25 guide to Knitwear from Uniform Buffalo explores all the key styles and fabrics we've got in store for this season. Whether its Origin Knitwear's Souffle yarn or Universal Works' wool fleece we've got you covered. Knitwear is perfect for this time of year as it allows you to stay warm during the colder months whilst maintaining that effortless style that we're all after. The perfect layering pieces some might say. 

Button Up Cardigans

From Gramicci's mohair digi camo cardigan or Universal Works langdale cardigan, cardigan's are arguably the most versatile layering pieces for the colder months. Chuck them over a t-shirt or a shirt, they add depth and pops of colour effortlessly to your autumn/winter looks.

Named after James Brudenell, the 7th Earl of Cardigan, the cardigan originated from a wool waistcoat worn by British soldiers during the Crimean War. Its practicality as a button-down layering piece gave it lasting appeal. In the 1920s–30s, it gained popularity on U.S. college campuses and was later embraced in Japan post-WWII through Ivy League style. Today, the cardigan remains a symbol of effortless style—perfect layered over a shirt or tee.

Whether your after a traditional cardigan or a more progressive, contemporary iteration, we've got plenty of Cardigan options online and in-store. Here are two of our favourites at the moment: The Saint Collar Cardigan by &SONS, this blazer style cardigan bridges the gap between tailoring and knitwear and the Universal Works's Charlie Cardigan, made from a textured Merino knit, this button through cardigan is a refined take on a classic knit.

Crewnecks 

From Jackman's Waffle Midneck to YMC's Suedehead Knit, knitted crewnecks are a timeless essential and will always play a major role in Autumnal layering. Dress them up with a shirt underneath or keep it simple over a t-shirt, you simply cannot go wrong with a good old knitted crewneck. 

The crewneck sweatshirt originated in the 1930s as a more comfortable alternative to wool sweaters worn by athletes. Developed by Russell Athletic, it featured a cotton build with a sweat-wicking V-insert and reinforced crew neck. Initially designed for football players, it was later adopted by rowing teams, hence the "crewneck" name. By the 1940s, it became a fashion item through the "Sloppy Joe" trend, with teens wearing oversized versions. Today, it’s a timeless staple, valued for its versatility and athletic roots.

Here are two of our favourites at the moment: The YMC Suedehead Stripe Knit, made in Scotland from a beautiful brushed lambswool yarn and the Jackman Waffle Midneck in Ivory/Green made using flat seam construction to achieve clean lines and added comfort.

Zip ups

Last but not least we've got Zip ups. With the growing presence of double zips, zip up cardigans and jumpers are versatile pieces for the colder months and act as perfect layering pieces to add depth and character to your outfits.

The knitted zip-up jumper, or cardigan, evolved from rugged fisherman’s sweaters like the Aran and Guernsey jumpers, originally designed for warmth and weather resistance. In the 20th century, it transitioned from workwear to fashion, gaining popularity through sports and figures like Coco Chanel and Hollywood icons. The zip-up style offered added practicality and became a versatile alternative to the pullover. Today, it remains a timeless wardrobe staple, valued for its comfort, functionality, and ability to suit both casual and refined looks. 

We've got two great options here at Uniform Buffalo in the form of the Heavy Cowichan Zip Up Cardigan from Frizmworks, in Sephia and Forest Green. Inspired by traditional Cowichan knitwear from Canada, this heavy cardigan is knitted from a Wool/Nylon yarn and the shawl collar creates a laid back silhouette that's perfect for layering throughout the colder months.