With temperatures still relatively high here in the UK, it might seem odd to already be talking about knitwear. But trust me, anyone who lives or has visited here knows that the weather can change in the blink of an eye. So with this in mind, I’ve decided to be prepared and start my hunt for the most expensive-looking knitwear to add to my autumn 2026 capsule wardrobe. And as someone with designer taste on a very modest budget, I’m aware I need to be particularly picky when shopping for jumpers and cardigans on the high street.

You probably already know that the cut, fabric composition and colours you opt for play a key role in how expensive your affordable knits look, so as someone who wants to spend this autumn in refined, put-together outfits that look way more premium than their budget-friendly price tags, I’ve spent hours scouring my favourite high-street stores to find the best of the best.

Top of the shops? It should come as no surprise that COS, Massimo Dutti and Sézane led the pack for designer-passing knits. Of course, these three premium high-street brands sit significantly higher price-wise than their more affordable counterparts. However, the timeless cuts and elegant colourways and patterns—plus commitment to prioritising natural fibres—mean they not only rival some luxury finds, but are also guaranteed to stand the test of time in your wardrobe.