Designers redefine holiday knitwear with quirky prints and whimsical motifs.

With the festive season in full swing, we can&rsquo;t help but to embrace classic <a href="https://preview.lofficielusa.com/travel-living/royal-family-christmas-traditions-queen-elizabeth" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Christmas</a> traditions be it homemade cookies, festive decor, hot cocoa&mdash;you name it. When it comes to fashion, although we love to celebrate the holiday season in <a href="https://preview.lofficielusa.com/shopping/holiday-clothes-attire-embellished-beads-sequins" target="_blank" rel="noopener">bedazzled ensembles</a> and embellished pieces, we also crave cozy comfort. Ugly sweaters are a playful and kitschy way to approach this, but what about something a little more timeless and just as fun?
While ugly sweaters are known for their clashing colors, kitschy patterns, and festive imagery, this season we're trading ours for more whimsical knitwear. Keeping the same energy and joyful essence, designers seem to have found their holiday comfort in absurd patterns of farm animals, smiley faces, and equestrian ornaments that create a bizarre yet fashionable aesthetic. These are as cozy as the traditional ugly sweater but a little more glamorous. Luxurious and whimsical knits are perfect for the trendsetter trying to get into the festive spirit.
Keep scrolling to shop some alternatives to ugly sweaters in the form of these designer-approved, whimsical knits.

JW Anderson's charming knit is made from wool and features a unique motif representing the front of a house, complete with windows and sills. The design is both simplistic and intricate, highlighted by a slight collar and button-up front. With its cropped silhouette, this sweater is the perfect piece to pair with mid to high-rise jeans for a stylish, refined look for the festive season.
JW Anderson House Knit Polo Sweater, $890, <a href="https://www.luisaviaroma.com/en-us/p/jw-anderson/women/81I-WG8024?ColorId=MTMw0&amp;lvrid=_p_d1L0_gw" target="_blank" rel="noopener">LUISAVIAROMA</a>

JW Anderson

Noname's Dotty Mini Cardigan features a vibrant red hue with playful white polka dots that exude festive energy. Crafted from luxurious cashmere and brushed for an exceptionally soft feel, this versatile piece can be layered for extra warmth in cooler weather or worn on its own as a bold statement. Featuring a button-up front and a cozy silhouette, it can be styled buttoned to the top for a polished look or left undone for a more whimsical vibe.
Noname Dotty Mini Cardigan, $495, <a href="https://nonameisneeded.com/products/dotty-mini-cardigan?variant=41139310133311" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Noname</a>

Noname

Leret Leret's playful sweaters are beautifully crafted from soft, supple Mongolian cashmere. Showcasing a delightful array of whimsical designs, from barns and cows to disco balls and domino pieces, this luxurious yet modern knit guarantees to add a touch of charm to any winter wardrobe.
Leret Leret No.80 Crewneck Sweater, $575, <a href="https://leret-leret.com/collections/cashmere/products/no-80" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Leret Leret</a>

Leret Leret Sweater

Leret Leret

Loewe's wool cardigan features a flattering V-neck and button-up front while showcasing a charming bunny motif surrounded by a flower and moon, with all-over detailing. Part of the endearing Loewe x Suna Fujita collection, this piece blends playful design with luxurious craftsmanship for a unique and whimsical addition to your knitwear rotation.
Loewe Cardigan in Wool, $3,400, <a href="https://www.loewe.com/usa/en/women/womenswear/knitwear/cardigan-in-wool/S359Y16K97-1100.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Loewe</a>

Loewe

Maison Kitsun&eacute;'s endearing fox motif takes center stage in a rich deep green hue on this knit wool-blend sweater. Combining warmth and style, this piece is a versatile wardrobe staple perfect for staying cozy while making a fashion statement.&nbsp;
Maison Kitsune&nbsp;Green Dressed Fox Intarsia Sweater, $565, <a href="https://www.ssense.com/en-us/women/product/maison-kitsune/green-dressed-fox-intarsia-sweater/16153151" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Ssense</a>

Maison Kitsune

This colorful sweater by The Elder Statesman showcases the artwork of Ozzie Wright, drawing inspiration from the retro, 1990s punk-surf aesthetic. Crafted from cashmere, its vibrant colors and playful imagery make a bold statement for the festive season. Designed with a heavyweight feel, this sweater combines standout style with cozy warmth.
The Elder Statesman Dolphinity Women's Crew, $1,895, <a href="https://elder-statesman.com/collections/womens-knitwear-crewnecks/products/dolphinity-womens-crew-black" target="_blank" rel="noopener">The Elder Statesman</a>

The Elder Statesman

Anthropologie's chunky sweater is the ideal piece to achieve the effortless coastal grandma look. This blue knit design features a bird motif and check pattern, offering a perfect blend of modern style with classic charm. Layer it over a button-up shirt and pair it with relaxed jeans for the ultimate seaside vibe.
Anthropologie Pilcro Chunky Crew-Neck Sweater, $228, <a href="https://www.anthropologie.com/shop/hybrid/pilcro-chunky-crew-neck-sweater?color=049&amp;inventoryCountry=US&amp;countryCode=US&amp;utm_medium=paid_search&amp;utm_source=Google&amp;utm_campaign=US+-+Shopping+-+PMAX+-+Apparel+-+Tops+%26+Outerwear&amp;utm_content=&amp;utm_term=&amp;creative=&amp;device=c&amp;matchtype=&amp;network=x&amp;utm_kxconfid=vx6rd81ts&amp;gad_source=1&amp;gclid=Cj0KCQiAsOq6BhDuARIsAGQ4-ziOuMAydoFD2g0vw_39lQehys9KQPzGD12uTNmfNt9fhPQ7MJRlX1QaAoHZEALw_wcB&amp;gclsrc=aw.ds&amp;type=STANDARD&amp;quantity=1" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Anthropologie</a>

Anthropologie 

Bode's quirky cropped sweater is crafted from a luxurious alpaca and merino blend, offering the perfect weight for wintertime layering. Adorned with an equestrian motif and patches featuring various flags and emblems, the design evokes a sense of nostalgic charm. In a soft butter yellow shade, this piece adds a captivating yet subtle pop of color to any outfit.
Bode Cropped Appliqu&eacute;d Intarsia Alpaca and Merino Wool-Blend Sweater, $890,<a href="https://www.net-a-porter.com/en-us/shop/product/bode/clothing/round-neck/cropped-appliqued-intarsia-alpaca-and-merino-wool-blend-sweater/1647597340726159?utm_source=google&amp;utm_medium=cpc&amp;utm_campaign=GOO%3ANAP%3AAM%3AUS%3ANY%3AENG%3ASEAU%3APLA%3ASLR%3AMXO%3ANEW%3AWN%3ABODE%3ALV0%3ALV1%3ALV2%3AXXX%3A9%3A%3A&amp;utm_id=20722822009&amp;utm_term=3074457345628119452&amp;vtp00=GOOGLE&amp;vtp01=SEAU&amp;vtp02=158061625387&amp;vtp03=pla-2365974372138&amp;vtp04=g&amp;vtp05=c&amp;vtp06=678654207483&amp;vtp07=pla&amp;gad_source=1&amp;gclid=Cj0KCQiAsOq6BhDuARIsAGQ4-ziB830-1YfU6jPblZSFjqo-Lgb1E-ZF45ZzESUBdqfTk6_H7A6apkYaAgUwEALw_wcB" target="_blank" rel="noopener"> Net-A-Porter</a>

Bode

Ralph Lauren's iconic bear motif has become a beloved cult classic, and what better time to embrace this endearing emblem than throughout the holiday season? This cream-colored sweater, crafted from wool, offers an exceptional feeling and weight.
Polo Ralph Lauren&nbsp;Lunar New Year Polo Bear Sweater, $398, <a href="https://www.ralphlauren.com/women-clothing-sweaters/lunar-new-year-polo-bear-sweater/0078488053.html?utm_source=CSE&amp;utm_medium=GooglePLA__20504404788_&amp;utm_source=PMax&amp;utm_medium=GooglePLA__20504404788_&amp;gad_source=1&amp;gclid=Cj0KCQiAsOq6BhDuARIsAGQ4-zi002idBt4Qufmdqv4SJsYsJb7zcWgmQ_dIVaHYSOWKEcl9NQFi6x4aAvIoEALw_wcB&amp;gclsrc=aw.ds" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Ralph Lauren</a>

Polo Ralph Lauren

In perfect time for the holiday season, Thom Browne's merino wool cardigan showcases a nostalgic gingerbread house motif, complete with a charming dog by its side (a beloved symbol of the brand). This luxurious sweater combines playful whimsy with high-end craftsmanship. Its side button detailing adds an extra layer of depth to the design, making it a standout piece perfect for elevating your knit collection.
Thom Browne&nbsp;4Bar Merino Wool Cardigan, $1,290, <a href="https://www.24s.com/en-us/4bar-merino-wool-cardigan-thom-browne_BRWUTXH2GRYT2AA100?gad_source=1&amp;gclid=Cj0KCQiAsOq6BhDuARIsAGQ4-zgxlRbOkIF1ZDNSY1JbQWPsfkOpzFGZ11G2XaI2biLsBkEgQU4SAIoaAuuEEALw_wcB" target="_blank" rel="noopener">24S</a>

Thom Browne

The colorful All Aboard Knit Cardigan by Al&eacute;mais showcases Adam Lester's artistic flair, brought to life through intriguing shapes and forms. Crafted from a luxurious alpaca and wool blend, this joyful knit features an array of contrasting colors that blend harmoniously in a quirky yet stylish aesthetic.&nbsp;
Al&eacute;mais All Aboard Knit Cardigan, $495, <a href="https://us.alemais.com/collections/knitwear/products/all-aboard-knit-cardigan?currency=USD" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Al&eacute;mais</a>

Alémais

Magliano's charming Black Gattone Sweater is crafted from a brushed mohair and nylon blend, featuring a white cat motif. With a relaxed fit and incredibly soft texture, this sweater effortlessly exudes comfort and charm, making it a cozy staple to wear throughout the holiday season.
Magliano Black Gattone Sweater, $765, <a href="https://www.ssense.com/en-us/women/product/magliano/black-gattone-sweater/16685181" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Ssense</a>

Magliano

In signature Moschino aesthetic, the brand's vibrant yellow sweater features a bold smile motif that guarantees to brighten anyone's day&mdash;and outfit. Crafted from a mohair blend, it boasts a luxuriously soft and furry texture while exuding joyful energy. A true statement piece, it pairs best with simple wardrobe staples to let the cheerful design take center stage.
Moschino&nbsp;Mohair Blend Knit Crewneck Sweater, $504, <a href="https://www.luisaviaroma.com/en-us/p/moschino/women/80I-1JW015?ColorId=MTAyNw2&amp;lvrid=_p_d026_gw" target="_blank" rel="noopener">LUISAVIAROMA</a>

Moschino

House of Sunny's cropped cardigan features a Weiner dog motif, complete with a scarf that wraps around to the back for an extra touch of charm. Designed with a casual collar and embroidered House of Sunny detailing, this playful yet stylish piece is the perfect companion to pair with a miniskirt or jeans for effortlessly-chic weekend attire.
House of Sunny Walk in the Park Tripper, $150,<a href="https://houseofsunny.com/products/walk-in-the-park-tripper"> House of Sunny</a>

House of Sunny

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Ditch Ugly Sweaters. Shop These 14 Whimsical Knits for the Holidays

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