Knitwear types and silhouettes
The category includes essential crewnecks, elegant turtlenecks, versatile crewnecks, button-up cardigans, and structured shawl-neck sweaters. Crewnecks feature fine knits or English rib, suitable for both layering and individual wear. Turtlenecks offer thermal insulation and clean lines, with high collars that maintain shape without feeling stiff. Crewnecks strike a balance between crewnecks and turtlenecks, with stand-up collars that add sophistication without completely covering up. Cardigans feature natural-material buttons and functional pockets, while sweaters with ribbed textures or jacquard patterns add visual and tactile depth.
Natural yarns and artisanal workmanship
The selection favors 100% virgin wool, 5-gauge merino wool, alpaca-wool blends, wool-polyamide combinations for greater durability, and recycled polyester for sustainability. Virgin wool ensures natural thermoregulation, breathability, and the ability to retain heat even in humid conditions. Merino wool offers superior finesse, softness against the skin, and natural antibacterial properties. Alpaca adds lightness, exceptional thermal insulation, and a distinctive silky texture. Fabrics include English rib for stretch and structure, braided gennaro stitch for visual depth, blurred textures for textural effects, and handcrafted tone-on-tone embroidery that adds detail without weighing down the aesthetic.
Fit and occasions of use
Fits range from classic regular fits to contemporary boxy silhouettes and relaxed cuts inspired by fisherman's tradition. Crewnecks and scoop necks maintain clean lines suitable for formal, smart casual, and leisure settings. Turtlenecks lend themselves to layering under tailored jackets or as standalone pieces in monochrome compositions. Cardigans offer versatility thanks to their open closure, functioning as midlayers or in place of lightweight jackets. Shawl collar sweaters with front pockets evoke a relaxed atmosphere, perfect for weekends and informal settings. Elasticated cuffs, ribbed hems, and reinforced seams ensure that the garments maintain their shape and proportions even after repeated wear.
Color palette and combinations
The color palette ranges from classic neutrals like black, white, gray, brown, and beige to more distinctive shades like navy blue, forest green, sky blue, and terracotta. Neutrals facilitate versatile pairings with denim, chinos, flannel, and corduroy trousers. Shades of blue and green add depth while maintaining a sense of understatement, ideal for tone-on-tone compositions or controlled contrasts. Handcrafted embroidery, where present, uses motifs inspired by Alpine destinations (St. Moritz, Mont Blanc, Courmayeur, Aspen), adding narrative without compromising the clean aesthetic. This variety allows for complete seasonal wardrobes to be built with just a few essential pieces.
This selection of men's knitwear brings together Italian brands like Circolo 1901, Bl'ker, Riviera, Gallia, and Alexander, alongside international offerings like Carhartt WIP, Edwin, and Iron and Resin. Each brand has a recognizable manufacturing identity: Italian craftsmanship for finesse and tailored details, heritage workwear for durability and authentic textures, and fishing tradition for timeless silhouettes. The offering covers formal, casual, and outdoor needs, maintaining consistent quality in the yarns and workmanship.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between virgin wool and merino wool?
Virgin wool refers to a fiber never used before, guaranteeing optimal quality and performance. Merino wool comes from merino sheep and is distinguished by its superior fiber fineness, exceptional softness, and ability to regulate temperature without irritating the skin. Both offer natural thermoregulation, but merino is softer to the touch and suitable for direct contact with the skin.
How do you wash wool garments?
Wool garments require hand washing or machine washing on a delicate cycle at temperatures no higher than 30°C, using specific wool detergents. Avoid harsh spin cycles and tumble drying. Dry flat on a horizontal surface away from direct heat sources. Iron at low temperatures (maximum 110°C) with a protective cloth if necessary. These precautions preserve the elasticity, shape, and softness of the yarn.
How do embroidered chokers differ from each other?
Riviera crewnecks feature handcrafted embroidery inspired by Alpine resorts (St. Moritz, Mont Blanc, Courmayeur, Aspen, Bombardino) in tone-on-tone or contrasting colors. Each embroidery maintains a discreet size and placement on the chest, adding narrative without compromising versatility. The plain styles offer a completely clean aesthetic, ideal for layering and formal outfits.
Which garments are suitable for layering?
Crewnecks and pullovers in 5-gauge merino wool work perfectly under jackets, blazers, and outerwear thanks to their lightweight construction and fitted silhouette. Turtlenecks are perfect for layering under tailored jackets or bomber jackets. Cardigans can be worn over shirts or t-shirts as midlayers. Sweaters with structured textures and relaxed fits are best suited as standalone outerwear.
How does alpaca compare to wool?
Alpaca offers superior thermal insulation for the same weight, greater lightness, and a distinctive silky texture. It contains no lanolin, making it hypoallergenic for sensitive skin. It tends not to felt like traditional wool, but still requires gentle washing. Alpaca-wool blends combine the thermal properties of alpaca with the elasticity and durability of wool.
Which brands offer more structured fits?
Circolo 1901 and Gallia maintain Italian fits with clean lines and tailored proportions. Bl'ker offers contemporary fits with attention to construction details. Iron and Resin offers relaxed silhouettes inspired by fishing tradition with rugged textures. Carhartt WIP and Edwin feature boxy and oversized fits with workwear and streetwear influences.
