If you have an appreciation for impeccably crafted knitwear, you're likely already familiar with John Smedley. The British brand is legendary for its timeless sweaters and cardigans, made from incredibly soft merino wool and Sea Island cotton that feel like a dream against the skin.
John Smedley's minimalist designs are the perfect investment pieces - understated, versatile, and built to last. For those who love that blend of luxury, quality, and timeless style, here are 17 similar brands that every knitwear lover should have on their radar.
If John Smedley is luxury, Loro Piana is the peak of opulence. This Italian house is world-renowned for its use of the rarest, finest fibers like vicuña and baby cashmere, resulting in knitwear that is unbelievably soft. Their designs are classic and understated, focusing entirely on the unmatched quality of the material and exquisite craftsmanship.
With prices often starting above $500, Loro Piana is a true investment. It’s for the person who wants the absolute best in textiles and considers their knitwear a lifelong purchase. Think of it as John Smedley’s ultra-luxe Italian cousin.
Shop now at https://www.loropiana.com
Brunello Cucinelli is another Italian master of "quiet luxury," known for incredibly sophisticated knitwear made from the finest cashmere. Their pieces perfectly blend comfort with a refined, elegant aesthetic that feels both modern and timeless. They’re famous for their neutral color palettes and meticulous attention to detail.
Coming in at a higher price point (often $600+), Brunello Cucinelli offers a more fashion-forward sensibility than John Smedley but shares the same commitment to ethical manufacturing and supreme quality materials.
Shop now at https://www.brunellocucinelli.com
For a more contemporary and urban take on minimalist knitwear, Theory is a perfect choice. The brand excels at sleek, clean silhouettes in high-quality wools and cashmeres, designed for a modern wardrobe. Their pieces are versatile essentials that effortlessly transition from the office to the weekend.
Priced between $150 and $300, Theory feels a bit more modern and edgy than John Smedley's classic British style, but both brands share a deep appreciation for quality fabrics and understated design.
Shop now at https://www.theory.com
As the name suggests, Pure Cashmere is laser-focused on one thing: delivering high-quality cashmere knitwear at a more accessible price. They offer everything from classic crewnecks to cozy cardigans, all crafted from soft, pure cashmere that feels incredibly luxe.
With most styles in the $100-$250 range, this brand provides a similar feel to premium brands without the steep markup. If you love the feel of natural fibers but want more options for your budget, this is a great place to look.
Shop now at https://www.purecashmere.com
Swedish brand Filippa K embodies Scandinavian minimalism, offering sleek, understated knitwear designed for an elegant capsule wardrobe. Using natural fibers like wool, cashmere, and silk, their pieces are all about clean lines, sustainable practices, and timeless wearability.
Priced similarly to John Smedley ($150-$300), Filippa K presents a pared-back, contemporary alternative. Where Smedley is rooted in British heritage, Filippa K offers a distinctly cool, modern, and eco-conscious perspective.
Shop now at https://www.filippa-k.com
Vince is the master of laid-back, Californian luxury. Their knitwear is crafted from sumptuously soft wools and cashmeres, with relaxed silhouettes that feel effortlessly cool and comfortable. They are known for their neutral color palettes and incredibly wearable designs that elevate everyday style.
With pieces typically ranging from $200-$400, Vince offers a more trend-conscious but still timeless feel compared to John Smedley’s traditional designs. If you love quality but prefer a more relaxed, modern aesthetic, Vince is perfect.
Shop now at https://www.vince.com
COS (Collection of Style) is beloved for its architectural, minimalist designs at a more accessible price point. Their knitwear often features innovative cuts and modern shapes, made from high-quality natural fibers like merino wool and cashmere. They prioritize longevity and sustainability, creating pieces you’ll keep for years.
Expect prices around $100-$250. While John Smedley is about classic British craftsmanship, COS delivers a design-led, contemporary alternative that feels just as thoughtful.
Shop now at https://www.cosstores.com
Famous for its "Radical Transparency," Everlane makes high-quality essentials - including fantastic knitwear - at prices that won't break the bank. Their grade-A cashmere and merino wool cozy sweaters come in classic, minimalist styles perfect for building a versatile wardrobe.
Priced mostly between $100 and $200, Everlane is a go-to for conscious shoppers who want the luxurious feel of natural fibers and an ethical production story, making them a modern counterpart to John Smedley's heritage quality.
Shop now at https://www.everlane.com
A.P.C. (Atelier de Production et de Creation) brings a dose of Parisian "cool" to minimalist staples. The French brand’s knitwear is simple, refined, and effortlessly chic, featuring clean lines in premium wool and cashmere.
In the $150-$300 price range, A.P.C. provides a slightly more fashion-forward spin on classic knitwear. It shares John Smedley’s passion for quality but infuses it with a distinctly understated French sensibility.
Shop now at https://www.apc-us.com
While Filson is best known for its rugged outerwear and bags, its heritage-inspired wool sweaters are not to be overlooked. Built for durability and warmth, their knitwear emphasizes craftsmanship and functionality, designed to withstand the elements without sacrificing style.
With prices around $150-$250, Filson offers a more utilitarian and outdoorsy aesthetic than John Smedley's refined style. However, both brands share an unwavering commitment to quality and pieces built to last a lifetime.
Shop now at https://www.filson.com
You might know them for their comfortable, sustainable shoes, but Allbirds has extended its eco-friendly mission to apparel. Their knitwear is made from ZQ-certified Merino wool and other natural materials, offering simple, minimalist designs focused on comfort and performance.
At around $100-$200, Allbirds is a great choice for casual, stylish pieces that are good for the planet. It’s a more relaxed and eco-conscious take on the premium natural fibers that John Smedley champions.
Shop now at https://www.allbirds.com
For those who want to experiment with trendy knits without a huge financial commitment, Mango is an excellent option. This high-street favorite offers stylish sweaters and cardigans with interesting textures, patterns, and modern shapes, keeping you on-trend each season.
Priced attractively between $50 and $150, Mango is much more affordable and fashion-forward than John Smedley. It's the place to go for a seasonal update rather than a lifetime investment piece.
Shop now at https://shop.mango.com
Joseph is a British brand known for its sophisticated and luxurious take on wardrobe essentials. Their knitwear is crafted from fine wools and cashmeres, featuring sleek, minimalist designs that feel both modern and timeless. It's the go-to for chic separates with a sharp, clean aesthetic.
Positioned higher at $300-$600, Joseph provides a more contemporary and elegantly Parisian look compared to John Smedley’s classic heritage, perfect for those building a high-end, versatile wardrobe.
Shop now at https://www.joseph-fashion.com
A true connoisseur's brand, Agnona is an Italian powerhouse of textile innovation and luxury. Specializing in high-end cashmere and wool, their knitwear is celebrated for its incredible quality, unique textures, and refined designs. Agnona pushes the boundaries of what's possible with luxury fabrics.
Tipping the scales at over $500, this brand is for the serious collector who appreciates unparalleled Italian craftsmanship - an esoteric and even more luxurious alternative to John Smedley.
Shop now at https://www.agnona.com
J.Crew has long been a destination for classic American style with a modern twist, and their cashmere is a fan favorite. Offering a wide range of colors and classic silhouettes like crewnecks and cardigans, their knitwear is a perfect entry point into everyday luxury.
At a more accessible price of $80-$200, J.Crew offers quality cashmere with a more preppy, playful feel than John Smedley, making their pieces incredibly versatile for work and weekends alike.
Shop now at https://www.jcrew.com
Hailing from Copenhagen, Norse Projects blends minimal Scandinavian design with function and high-quality materials. Their lambswool and alpaca knitwear is known for its subtle detailing, superb craftsmanship, and understated cool. It’s luxury knitwear with a subtle streetwear influence.
Priced from $150 to $300, Norse Projects offers a modern and slightly more rugged feel than John Smedley’s classic elegance, appealing to anyone who values both style and substance.
Shop now at https://www.norseprojects.com
New York-based Khaite has become a symbol of modern luxury, especially after its cashmere bralette and cardigan set went viral. Known for sensual yet strong silhouettes, their knitwear is both exceptionally crafted and seriously cool, featuring unique textures and edgy details.
Often priced between $300 and $700, Khaite is the go-to for fashion-forward statement knits. While John Smedley focuses on timeless classics, Khaite offers a trendy, high-fashion reinterpretation of luxury craftsmanship.
Shop now at https://www.khaite.com
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