When did knitwear become so boring? I blame the harrowing affront of “quiet luxury.” And don’t get me wrong, I rely on my neutral layering staples, and I long to curl up in a beige oblong Lauren Manoogian sweater as much as the next person, but I don’t want to sacrifice pizazz completely in that equation. Perhaps this is why I find emerging designer and CFDA Fashion Fund nominee Zankov so enticing.
Henry Zankov launched his eponymous label in 2020 after serving stints at Donna Karan and DVF. Born in Russia, the designer mixes almost ascetic austerity with buoyant patterns in a fascinating manner. The mohair/alpaca mix is devilishly sumptuous, the geometric prints and artistic motifs whimsically alluring. As a bonus, the styling of the campaigns is always excellent if you’re looking for inspiration—especially as we come upon a change in seasons. I promise you’ll never look at sweater sets the same way again. Personally, I could not be obsessed with the open-weave sequined skirt and the color-blocked turtleneck. Or shop one of my favorite styles from the previous season on sale here.
