Knitwear goes viral

Knitwear inspiration often comes from the runway or a hit TV show. But this week, it came via an unexpected source, the courtroom.

Gwyneth Paltrow appeared in a Utah court over an alleged collision at a ski resort in 2016. The US state allows cameras in court and photographs of the actor with her defence lawyers, wearing a cream knitted jumper, went viral.

Paltrow’s nondescript knitwear reflects a wider trend last seen circa 2008: stealth wealth, or clothes that subtly declare their value. These muted pieces are redolent of a specific low-key luxury style. In a turbulent economic climate, advertising wealth is out.

The jumper appears to be from the Italian luxury brand Loro Piana. Dubbed “Uniqlo for billionaires”, it specialises in cashmere with Paltrow’s “Parksville” turtleneck retailing for over £1,500.

The high street will be quick to emulate the actor’s woollens. But this imitation won’t discourage the one percenters. “These brands are easily recognised by members of their tribe,” said Milton Pedraza, chief executive of research group the Luxury Institute. “The wearer makes a statement without having to try to make a statement. Everyone who should know, knows.”