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We’re just going to come out and say it: Grey knitwear is highly underrated. The oft-considered “basic” reliably finds its way into fashion’s chicest insiders season after season, from Vogue editors to models off-duty. And it’s not hard to see why: endlessly wearable and available in an array of shades and silhouettes—from slouchy V-necks and classic crews to chic cardigans—a grey sweater has the power to elevate even the simplest uniform. Who could ever say no to a dose of chic, added coverage?
Vogue’s Ultimate Edit of Grey Knitwear:
Kendall Jenner is a noted grey sweater loyalist. Early last fall, she stepped out in a grey cashmere crewneck—from The Row, naturally—while out to dinner in L.A. with the powerhouse duo themselves. She styled the understated knit loosely slung over a crisp white tee, pleated black trousers, and worn-in ballet flats. The result was pared-back yet undeniably cool, proving that chic often lies in the simplest acts of layering.
Vogue’s executive fashion director, Lisa Aiken offers another point of reference. Her take is more polished: a roomy grey turtleneck paired with a flared A-line skirt and finished with a cozy cashmere scarf for a modern ladylike look. (Bonus points if you add in a pointed-toe Prada pump, worn just as Aiken would.)
Below, proof that sometimes going back to basics is best. Shop nine street-style-approved ways to wear the forever fashion favorite: the grey knit.
The Celeb Go-To
Who better to take wardrobe essentials styling cues from than supermodel Kendall Jenner? Channel her effortlessly cool approach by reaching for a slouchy grey crewneck, layered over a relaxed white tee and paired with pleated black trousers and simple ballet flats. The extra layer adds subtle dimension while delivering a dose of chic coverage. Finish with a sleek leather tote and a pair of blacked-out sunnies for a fully Jenner-approved look.
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The Fine Grey Find
We’re not just talking chunky knits. Lightweight, fine-gauge styles are equally—if not more—chic. Milanese editor Marta Oldrini proves the point, styling a Cos knit with a matching grey midi skirt, an edgy leather moto jacket, and a slim-fitting turtleneck. Complete with a croc-embellished tote and a long pendant necklace.
The Striped Polo
It’s hard to ignore the influence of striped rugby shirts on fashion right now, from the runways to the editors wearing them. Even classic grey knitwear is getting the sporty treatment. As seen on this polished Parisian, style Éterne’s striped knit with easy blue jeans, a denim work jacket, and trendy Adidas trainers. Accessories from Khaite and Lié Studio elevate the look all the way to front-row status.
The Chunky V-Neck
With NYFW right around the corner, we can almost guarantee Lisa Aiken will step out in some version of this sleek uniform. Per her styling playbook, start with &Daughter’s chunky V-neck sweater layered over a grey knit midi skirt and finished with a fringed cashmere scarf. The pièce de résistance? Prada’s pointed-toe pumps—seemingly on every editor’s wish list last season. And of course, her signature Ray-Ban sunnies are a must-shop.
The Sweater-as-Scarf
Wearing your sweater as a scarf is a street style trick that took off last season—and it’s still going strong. Spotted during Copenhagen Fashion Week, this look offers a supremely chic take on the trend. Recreate it by draping Everlane’s oversized crewneck over Arma’s suede trench coat and Gap’s chocolate-brown trousers, then finish with heeled boots and a robin’s egg blue bag for a fresh pop of color.
The Soft V
Just last week in Milan during the men’s shows, this stylish showgoer gave a soft grey V-neck sweater a sultry twist by revealing a hint of a red underneath. The runway-ready look was finished with a sheer skirt, Prada’s lime satin drawstring bag, and taupe kitten heels.
The Roomy Wool
A great wool knit can be just as luxurious as cashmere. Take this street styler’s roomy grey crewneck: its oversized fit pairs perfectly with a pleated midiskirt, knee-high boots, and a little black croc-embossed belt. Make the look your own, below.
The Polished Polo
Give your grey knit an extra hit of polish by opting for a preppy polo style. Vanity Fair’s Nicole Chapoteau is a fan of the boyish look, wearing hers outside last season’s Miu Miu show with the brand’s bold yellow leather skirt, a camel blazer, and black penny loafers—finished with a matching grey sock for a charming touch.
The Classic Cardigan
A trim grey cardi is hard to beat when it comes to wardrobe essentials—it’s even become a mainstay on Miuccia Prada’s runways. British Vogue’s Chioma Nnadi clearly agrees, styling hers over a double-layered shirt with easy blue jeans and a playful loafer. This pair from J.Crew is particularly good.
