The V-neck jumper returns for autumn 2026, appearing brighter and more structured than it has in years. After a long period where crew-necks dominated knitwear, designers are returning to the V-shaped silhouette with renewed interest. This season, the revival moves away from the office relic status it held for much of the last decade, introducing deeper necklines and stronger contrast trims. The garment has evolved into a versatile layering piece that works across different weather conditions and style preferences.
Brighter palettes and playful details
Colour drives the current trend. Brands are using bold shades to separate the new V-neck from the neutral tones that defined previous seasons. Miu Miu introduced bright V-necks into an otherwise neutral collection, showing that the intensity of the hue can define the look. Two-tone designs are equally prominent, with MM6 Maison Margiela and Staud presenting examples on their fall 2026 runways. Staud’s chocolate-brown knit featured blue and green stripes along the neckline, demonstrating how a single garment can carry an entire outfit through colour-blocking.
Playful details are also becoming standard. Designers are adding lace, fringe, and ruffles to the basic silhouette. Loulou de Saison applied a romantic touch with lace trim on a light grey knit, while other brands push the playful direction further. Proportions have shifted as well; the new versions are slightly oversized with a deeper but controlled plunge. This design choice frames a tank top, tee, or crisp shirt underneath, allowing the sweater to adapt to changing temperatures throughout the day.
The V-neck in the Indian market
In India, the V-neck has remained a staple of winter wardrobes, and the current global trends align with the country’s milder, shorter winters. Local brands have long understood the value of this shape for layering. Monte Carlo, which launched in 1984 from Ludhiana’s woollen industry, offers premium options that fit the season’s broader narrative. Allen Solly has similarly moved from formalwear into youth-oriented lines, offering pastel shades and slim fits that complement the modern V-neck aesthetic.
International names are also prominent in the Indian market. Uniqlo is known for its cashmere and Heattech range, while Marks & Spencer focuses on pure-wool sweaters. Newer players are entering the fine-gauge, layering-friendly space. 98 Degree North sells Australian merino sweaters, catering to consumers seeking quality materials. A wider range of domestic labels covers the category, from heritage wool producers to digital-first brands. Raymond, founded in 1925, makes sweaters in pure wool and blends, while Duke Fashions, established in 1966, offers cardigans alongside casualwear.
Indian Terrain, launched in 2000, notes the variety of colours, prints, and patterns available in men’s and boys’ sweaters. Cantabil lists the V-neck among its styles, and Shingora produces knit pullovers at its Punjab facility. At the premium end, Rare Rabbit offers lightweight to warm fits in crewnecks, high-necks, and zip styles. Louis Philippe, originating in India in 1989, sits within the Aditya Birla Fashion and Retail stable alongside Peter England and Allen Solly. Digital-first labels are now pushing the colour-led story, with Snitch positioning men’s sweaters as a blend of essentials and statements, and MIXT by Nykaa Fashion offering vivid options with fun prints.