Winter is just around the corner so I’m already workshopping ways I can wear my fave cosy jumpers around the clock. Layering is one of the best ways to stay warm when temperatures drop, and this is why investing in great knitwear is a must. I always favour beautiful knits but I also love nothing more than a more casual sweatshirt when it’s cold. If you’re a bit dubious about the latter, the direction trends have ventured of late has made wearing sweats out of the house not only unbelievably warm and practical, it’s right on trend too.
If you’re going to live in jumpers throughout winter, it pays to have all your bases covered so you have one on hand to suit most outfits and occasions. I think it works to have some (or all) of the following in your closet:
A colourful knit: Whether it’s a bright cobalt blue, a shocking pink or a demure pastel, it’s always a good idea to embrace a little colour when it comes to knitwear. When everything in winter is generally geared towards dark, sombre hues it’s nice to inject a splash of colour into a look.
A textured piece: Textures are always a great feature to incorporate in knitwear whether it’s an oversized ribbed feature, cute bobbles or embroidery, it always adds a layer of interest to an outfit.
A cardi: Wear it buttoned or open, but either way cardigans are huge this winter so it pays to have one or two in your collection. I am loving slightly cropped styles that I can wear as a standalone top or layer it with something else underneath.
An oversized sweater: Big oversized sweaters are so cosy and when worn with something fitted such as jeans or a wide leg pant and slightly tucked in it looks ultra chic while also keeping you toasty.
A grey sweatshirt: There’s obviously an array of different sweatshirt styles out there but I always love having a grey one in my closet. I wear it with my gym gear or with jeans and often pop a trench or other jacket on top and it all of a sudden feels more fashion-ey.
A neutral knit: You most definitely have to own at least one knit in a neutral hue in your wardrobe. It’s a great piece to have as it can easily pair with multiple options, and offers you an array of different looks.
Logo sweatshirt: I do love a fun designer logo sweatshirt to dress up a pair of jeans. This one isn’t high on the priorities list but it is a good one to have as it’s ultra comfortable but also on trend.
A matching set: Invest in a matching set if you want to take wear loungewear out and about. I often do a jumper with tracksuit pants and pop on a trench to dress it up a little, or a beautiful knit set is also a wonderful alternative if sweats aren’t your thing.
A turtleneck: Not only does it serve the purpose of keeping your neck warm, there’s something classic and sophisticated about a turtleneck. Hues such as black, cream or camel are always a good option as they offer a lot of versatility in how they can be worn as they can work back with jeans, pants or skirts equally as well.
If you’re currently popping a few things on your jumper shopping list after reading the above, there are a few practical considerations to keep in mind to ensure you end up with a knit with longevity…
Consider the fabrication: Look at the label and see what the jumper is made from. Wool and cashmere are of course at the upper echelon as they wear well, are breathable and have longevity. Merino wool in particular is said to be one of the best options if you want to avoid dreaded pilling. Cotton is also another great pick if you want a jumper that breathes and is also relatively easy to look after. Also look at the composition, something that is 100% acrylic for example will keep you toasty, but if the weather turns and starts to warm up you may be left feeling a little too hot as it’s not breathable. You want to ensure you incorporate a few natural fabrics so you don’t end up feeling overly hot when you’re wearing layers. Be on the look out for cheaper polyester/cotton combinations which tend to lose their shape after multiple wears.
Check out the washing instructions: They say knitwear should be washed as minimally as possible, but if you do have to launder a jumper, how much of a pain is it going to be? I love anything that can easily be thrown in the washing machine on a gentle cycle, but some may need dry cleaning or a specific detergent to keep it in top shape.
Choose a neckline that works for your wardrobe: I will often gravitate towards crew neck jumpers as I like the neckline and how it works with the rest of my closet. You may prefer V-neck or roll neck or turtleneck, but always think of what you’re going to wear it with to ensure longevity.
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