Here are 5 of the best Canadian brands for quality knitwear

Not surprisingly for a country with a reputation for very cold weather and very long winters, Canada has no shortage of great knitwear brands. From heritage styles handknit according to First Nations traditions to new-gen labels reimagining contemporary silhouettes in alpaca, merino and mohair, you could build an entire wardrobe of knitwear solely from Canadian brands. Here are five styles, selected for their unexpected, unique design or their versatility — and all making a strong case for investing in something you’ll wear for years.

A knitted skirt is one thing, but Belacaro’s alpaca pareo skirt is another altogether. Designed and handcrafted in Quebec, the brand was founded in 2023 by Maude Grondin, a textile engineer, and Caroline Bélanger, a Bolivian-Canadian who chose Oeko-Tex- and Peru Fair Trade-certified baby alpaca wool for its luxurious, cashmere-like texture. Available in 13 colours, including this bright purple, vibrant orange and classic red, the pareo has an adjustable tie and button, so it can be worn or layered in dozens of ways. Tie it over your shoulders; drape it on top of jeans — and try to resist getting it in every single colourway.

Knit from 90 per cent merino wool and 10 per cent Mongolian cashmere by female artisans in Iran, this Rú vest by Givéh is far from your average sweater vest. Its open sides with ties make it a great layering piece over a button-up shirt or simple T-shirt, while its cream, hand-crocheted trim lends an artisanal feel. We are also into the Vancouver-based brand’s ethos, which is all about small-batch products using responsibly sourced natural and recycled fibres, made by women in Tehran, highlighting their talent and craftsmanship.

If your impression of knitted skirts leans either towards matronly or schoolgirl, this mesh pleated style by Toronto-based brand Kotn is here to prove there’s a stylish middle ground. Knit in Portugal from 100 per cent EcoViscose, which has an airy yet weighted drape, it has a mid- to low-rise silhouette and a ribbed waistband that looks great with a wide belt for a nostalgic ’90s finish. Team with flats and a T-shirt for an outfit that showcases knitwear as less wintry, more fashion forward.

Known for its affordable, cute collections, Vancouver brand Brunette the Label has updated the classic cable knit sweater, giving it a more relaxed feel while retaining the timeless technique and texture. Layer it over shirts or jeans or tuck it into a skirt to juxtapose the oversized shape.

Once widely imitated and commercially appropriated, the Cowichan sweater is increasingly being recognized for its First Nations heritage and its importance to Coast Salish culture. Traditionally hand-knit by Indigenous artisans on Vancouver Island, these distinctive sweaters, including this eagle version, are known for their thick, durable, water-resistant wool and one-of-a-kind designs. For other motifs and Indigenous-made designs, Knit With Purpose works with First Nations knitters to support fair wages, preserve cultural heritage and celebrate the artistry behind each sweater.