We may be in for shorter, darker days, but at least there are cosy jumpers and cardigans to take the edge off. I’ve chosen three of the softest staples and pondered the many ways to wear them as the seasons shift.
How to wear … a turtleneck
Autumn, winter, turtleneck – what a trio. For me, there are few things more thrilling about this time of year than the reintroduction of chunky knits into my wardrobe. Not only am I reminded that peak romcom season is fast approaching, but my woolly tights and treasured boots collection are about to have the time of their lives.
On those days when mornings are dark and effort is lacking, this soft, neutral turtleneck from Uniqlo, thrown together with your favourite baggy jeans and the chunkiest boots you own is an absolute fail-safe. Fortunately, there isn’t a style of jacket or coat that doesn’t work with this combination, but no doubt I’ll be reaching for my trusty bomber.
High necks and skirts (of any length) go together like rain and raincoats. This year, I’d suggest opting for your shortest numbers – they didn’t get half the action they deserved this summer – to style with a knit, penny loafers, thick socks and, until it’s cold enough, bare legs. If, for you, naked November knees are a no-no, try biker boots with a floor-sweeping coat for more coverage.
One thing turtlenecks have proved time and time again is that they are perfect for layering. In fact, they often look best when styled as the understudy to a printed dress, colourful tank or strong-shouldered blazer. Borg gilets are a perfect match for a high-neck knit, especially when worn with wide-leg, tailored trousers and a good pair of trainers.
How to wear … a crew neck
Which garment works harder than the humble crew neck sweater? Answer: hardly any. Arguably the most versatile of all the knits, think of this extra fine, merino wool style from Uniqlo as autumn’s version of a plain white T-shirt.
Take your favourite suit and walk straight into the new season by simply adding a single layer of warmth. If your suit is neutral, this is a good chance to inject some colour – yes, I’m looking at that vibrant pink. The extra fine wool means you can layer without losing all movement in your elbows, because we all know that overstuffed sleeve feeling.
For anyone trying to get as much wear as possible out of their ballet flats, try styling them with a black, knitted crew neck, a maxi skirt and a jersey headband for the ultimate balletcore moment. Sometimes, though, a simple piece deserves an even simpler look. Start with a crew neck in a classic colour such as navy, and layer over a white T-shirt that’s visible just above the neckline of the jumper. Slip on a pair of straight-leg jeans or chinos, a practical shoulder bag and running trainers, then top it off with a baseball cap to enter full “dad mode”.
How to wear … a short cardigan
Cardigans have always held a soft spot in my heart and my wardrobe, with my awkward-length cardi obsession peaking in my 00s’ teenage years. No dodgy lengths at Unilqo, though – this “short” style reaches the hips and comes in a satisfying selection of colours, including functional neutrals and standout, autumnal shades such as apple red. For those mild nights before winter really sets in, switch out your inbetweeny jacket for this boxy cardy, while keeping the rest of your look on the fancier side with contrasting textures and a pair of comfy kitten heels. Lace slip dresses and leather trousers are all good options when it comes to nailing evening-appropriate knitwear. Texturally, the soufflé yarn is deliberately light and airy to avoid the dreaded knit itch.
It’s a rare occurrence when styling knitwear, but it can happen, and we’ll call it knitwear inception; the unusual teaming of two knits, worn one on top of the other. You guessed it, the cardigan and the rollneck are the ultimate cosy companions. Button up, add a maxi skirt with pointed ankle boots and you’re ready for everything the season throws at you. Hopefully not literally.
Want to make life a little better this season? Snuggle up to the soft touch of men’s and women’s knitwear from UNIQLO
