Men's Sweaters

Neckline is the first decision, because it sets what can be worn underneath. Crew necks close at the collarbone and sit flat beneath a jacket, V-necks open a wedge for a shirt and tie, and polo or quarter-zip knits split the difference with a collar of their own. Roll and turtlenecks carry the knit up the throat and need nothing beneath, while mock necks stop short of a full fold.

Fibre sets the season more than thickness does. Extra-fine merino layers cleanly without bulk and springs back into shape, cashmere and its blends hold more warmth than their weight suggests, and lambswool sits between the two with a fuller hand. Cotton, linen and silk blends stay cool and hold a flatter surface. Cable, rib, waffle and fisherman stitches add loft you can see, while intarsia and jacquard put pattern into the knit rather than onto it.