Ah autumn. Or is it winter already? Either way, it’s time to dig out the jumpers and wrap up warm when inside or outside. The thing is, my current jumper selection is looking a bit sad. I have an amazing one from FatFace that I got last year, but other than that everything is either old and frayed or is more of a technical fleece layer. What I need is a couple of new cosy jumpers to pull on when I get in from the cold or am heading out in jeans for brunch.
So, as the fashion bloggers do (!), I’ve scoured the internet and have shortlisted a few casual knits and sweaters in the hope you can decide which one or two I should actually buy. I have a few rules in my head; there are no hoods here, I want to feel smart, and be able to wear a hooded jacket over the top, and there are no technical pieces – this is all about feeling cosy and relaxed. Apparently I have a thing for stripes at the moment…
FatFace – Islay Pattern Jumper
I started here because my current favourite kit is from there, and I could probably live in FatFace clothing exclusively if I had the money. The Islay Pattern Jumper (£45) is a crew neck jumper in wool blend has a traditional look that I love. I’d go for the sea green.
White Stuff – Forager Stripe Jumper
The Forager Stripe Jumper (£59.95) is lightweight but feels cosy (I went to the shop to see). As with most of the jumpers in my selection, this has a relaxed fit – no-one wants to feel constricted in their knitwear!
Gap – Fair Isle Crewneck Pullover
With the traditional Christmas jumper look, the Fair Isle Crewneck Pullover from Gap (£54.95) is long in the arms which I love – they help keep my wrists and hands warm. Of the two colours available, I would choose the black.
Next – Navy Star Drop Shoulder Sweater
I’ve shortlisted two knits from Next. This Navy Star Drop Shoulder Sweater (£26) is simple but bold; I really enjoy the little stripes around the sleeves.
Next – Rainbow Stripe Balloon Sleeve Sweater
And then there is this bold and bright Rainbow Stripe Balloon Sleeve Sweater (£25), which just has happiness written all over it. The Next jumpers are a bit cheaper than most of the others in this selection, which is also a good thing!
Craghoppers – Balmoral Crew Neck Fleece
I said casual rather than technical but I think, even with Craghoppers’ technical background, this Balmoral Crew Neck Fleece (£35) still fits in that category. The neat crew collar and buttons on the shoulder turn this fleece top into something more suited to being off the trail.
Whale of a Time – Sowerby Sweatshirt
Less jumper, more sweater, the Sowerby Sweatshirt (£42.95) from Whale of a Time Clothing has those big bold stripes I really like, and just looks like one of those tops that is effortless to wear. I reckon this is super cosy and would be ideal for days in out in the cold wind.
Jack Wills – Willowbank Stripe Jumper
More stripes? Yes. The Willowbank Stripe Jumper (£69.95) from Jack Wills has a classic and smart look that could easily become an office staple. The alpaca and wool blend will be very warm whilst still being lightweight.
Superdry – Indiana Waffle Stitch Slouch Knit
With Cheltenham being my new home town, I had to include a Superdry piece, didn’t I?! This Indiana Waffle Stitch Slouch Knit (£39.99) has a textured finish and classic shape. Despite the “slouch” name, it’s a bit more fitted than some of the other jumpers in this post, but I still think it’s a great looking casual knit.
Fjallraven – Ovik Folk Knit Sweater
Another one of those brands that I would buy my whole wardrobe from if I could, Fjallraven know how to make a cosy jumper. The Ovik Folk Knit Sweater (£140) is probably my favourite jumper in this whole post, with the traditional Nordic pattern, the simple shape, and the 100% wool label. I know it’s expensive because it’s the best quality (you get what you pay for), but I wish it was a bit more affordable.
I guess the question is, which should I get?