Game Of Thrones might be done and dusted but winter is coming (again) so it’s time to level up your wardrobe. Stakes couldn’t be higher this year with even the smallest sniffle earning you some major stink eye so it pays to be prepared. To help you out we’ve hunted high and low for knitwear that delivers on warmth, supports conscious local and international brands and is kind to the environment.  

Without further ado, here are some of the best knits for staying cosy this winter. Layer up friends, layer up. 

This joyful yellow number made with 95% cotton and 5% cashmere will be a welcome pop of colour amidst winter’s muted tones. Also available in seafoam and sky blue, this long-sleeved knit features a crew neck and wide-rib detail, and is one size fits all. Designed in Aotearoa by Kiki Judd and Alice Isles and produced ethically in China by talented technicians, there's only one thing left to say: let them wear Cake Knit. 

By now you've definitely heard of Allbirds' sustainable shoes, and maybe even own a pair (or three) but did you know they do earth-loving clothes and accessories too? Our winter fave is this R&R Hoodie which is sure to bring a whole lot of rest and relaxation your way. Made with a blend of organic Peruvian Pima cotton and TENCEL™ Lyocell (a fabric made from eucalyptus tree fibre), this cosy, slim-fit R&R Hoodie is carbon neutral. Pair with sweatpants and some sweet knitted kicks for the full look. 

Okay, so this isn’t exactly a classic knit…but you know you’re going to look hella cute and be cosy as in this Lucy & Yak Eddie Organic Boilersuit. If you haven't heard, Lucy & Yak are a British company that's committed to becoming more sustainable, more diverse and more inclusive across the board and they're already doing great things in these spaces. There are a bunch of styles and colourways to choose from but our favourites are double-bubble pink and andie spot (pictured). Both are coloured with low-impact Oeko-Tex approved dies and feature big hip pockets, a roomy chest and an elasticated waist with handy belt loops. And did we mention it's unisex?

Made with a cashmere cotton blend right here in Aotearoa the zero-waste Balance Skivvy is lightweight and super soft so it’s perfect for layering whatever the weather. If you really feel the cold though, their Merino Turtleneck Tulle Skivvy might be more your style. Another zero-waste piece, this one is made with 100% high-twist merino for extra comfort. While the brand behind these gems is called Standard Issue, these skivvies are anything but. 

Sweatpants are synonymous with cosy, comfy home days but now, with a side split and shell button detailing, they’re classy too. Another gorgeous hej hej creation, these pants are the high-waisted, full-length fantasy with an elastic waist, two side pockets and a cosmic print we're obsessed with. What's more, made from 100% linen Sweetpants are as sweet for the environment as they are for you (we had to).

Cold-proof your adventures with this 4-way stretch Cascade Merino by Mons Royale. Made from ethical New Zealand ZQ Merino spun at Süedwolle, sewn by Shanghai Challenge Textiles (awarded Chinese Environmental Certification), packaged in plant-based compostable bags and FSC certified paper, and shipped via container ship which creates 20x less C02 emissions than airfreight you can clad yourself in Mons Royale without a guilty conscience.

If you're not wearing cable knit, is it even really winter? Part of Veronica Maine’s new ‘Forward’ range where every garment features an element of sustainable design this Cable Knit Jumper is made from sustainably sourced alpaca, merino wool and a recycled nylon blend yarn. Its relaxed silhouette gives all the room for wintery relaxation. Pair with this Chunky Rib Scarf to boost the cosy factor.

If you’re planning on spending winter tucked up on the couch in the slouchiest trackies you can find, then this unisex pair by Cosmic are a solid go-to. Made with a super soft blend of organic hemp and organic cotton fleece, naturally antimicrobial and insulating, with an elastic aged waistband (essential) and pockets (vital) they’re winter vibes incarnate.

It'd be remiss to create a winter knit list without a beanie and this Standard Issue Rib Beanie is pretty swish. Made with 100% low-impact ethical ZQ merino this mid-weight beanie will keep your head snug when the temperature drops. Available in olive, navy, alabaster and black. 

If you’re partial to a bit of a lumberjack vibe (who isn’t?) you’ll definitely want to nab this Swanndri Seattle Wool Hoodie. Made with a New Zealand wool outer and cotton lining on the inside this hoodie is heavyweight for keeping out the cold and has concealed pockets for holding all the essentials. Most importantly you can kit your pup out in the same threads. Now isn’t that just a bit cute?

Ready to dive head first into a winter wonderland? Check out these must-do experiences to inspire your South Island wander-list. 

Image credit: Mons Royale, hej hej, Lucy & Yak, Standard Issue, hej hej, Mons Royale, Veronica Maine, Cosmic, Allbrids, Standard Issue, Swanndri. 

Editor's note: Urban List editors independently select and write about stuff we love and think you'll like too. Urban List has affiliate partnerships, so we get revenue from your purchase.

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