Can you believe we’re already more than halfway through November? The Most Wonderful Time of the Year is fast approaching. Which means that, by now, I’d probably be stocking up on winter dresses and party makeup. This year, however, it’s all about the cosy knitwear. Soaring energy bills mean my main fashion focus this season is how to stay warm without breaking the bank. So hurrah for sweater season! Jumpers and cardigans are the new not-so-secret weapon in the war against (energy) waste. I’ll certainly be piling on the layers in order to turn down the thermostat and even switch the heating off when I can.
Thankfully the high street/internet has no shortage of chic, yet practical, designs, so we can all stay warm and super-stylish, whether we’re hunkering down at home or braving the elements outside. Read on to discover a selection of my cosy knitwear favourites – all perfect for Christmas presents, or even an early ‘self-gift’!
Eribé at No. 10, Woodbridge
When it comes to cosy knitwear, I’m a big fan of Fair Isle. This design is a seasonal classic that somehow always manages to stay modern. Did you know that the Fair Isle knitting technique is actually named after one of the Shetland Islands? This distinctive design is regularly re-imagined with new colour-ways and patterns, such as this gorgeous Eribé Fair Isle cardigan. Based in Melrose, Scotland, the Eribé brand started out in 1986 as a cottage industry, but has since gone global. It’s known for its innovative spin on traditional Scottish knitwear. And it champions natural yarns, quality craftsmanship and sustainability.
Fair Isle fabulousness
“Fair Isle has made a return to the fashion scene over the last few years, and this year is particularly big,” agrees Sam Cook, director at No.10, a Suffolk stockist of Eribé among other highly reputable fashion brands. “This beautiful cardigan is made using traditional methods. Eribé dyes the yarns every year, so every batch is unique and only limited numbers are available. Made with Shetland wool, this is sure to keep you warm, while looking gorgeous.”
Sherpa Adventure Gear
Mention “Sherpa” to most people, and they’ll think you’re referring to the Nepalese ethnic group renowned for their superior climbing skills. So it makes sense that Sherpa Adventure Gear was founded in 2003 by Tashi Sherpa and his family to help the communities and people of Nepal. This brand doesn’t just offer warm, stylish, cosy knitwear – it also offers consumers a way to help fund a child’s education.
Supporting communities in need
“Sherpa is adventure gear with a purpose,” notes head of consumer marketing Julie Russell. “Our vision is to inspire lives of adventure by exploring new lands and opening minds through learning. We’re on a mission to help educate the girls and boys in Nepal. Every item you buy funds a school day for a child in Nepal. So when you wear Sherpa Adventure Gear, you’re helping to teach a child and create opportunity for a new generation.”
My Sherpa Vindo Crew sweater in Caramel is fashionable yet functional. Made from 5 gauge wool, it’s warm but not bulky, so it doesn’t feel restrictive. I’m especially fond of the deliberately long cuffs, which add to the general cosiness. I’ve worn this so much already this season, both to go out and while working from home in my garden office. Where possible, I shop sustainably, and I really like the idea of giving something back to communities in need.
Boden bliss
Ruffles are predicted to be A Big Thing in 2023. So I’m thrilled to be ahead of the curve with my Layered Frill Jumper from Boden. Cosy knitwear doesn’t always have to be thick and chunky. This soft, semi-fitted sweater keeps me warm, but doesn’t ‘swamp’ my frame.
I think that ruffles add a touch of femininity, and definitely soften a silhouette. I think they make this sweater just that little bit more dressy, too. I’ve found this to be such a versatile piece that works just as well with jeans for daywear as it does with tailored trousers, skirts and heels for evening.
Green queen
Another cosy knitwear pick from me is another Boden sweater. Can you tell I’m a big fan of the brand, whatever the season?! Like the first Eribé jumper, this Blouson Sleeve Fluffy Jumper features a Fair Isle Design, atop a Hunter Green background.
Green is on-trend this season, but I love wearing it all year round. It flatters my colouring, complements so many other palettes, and is a great alterative to navy or black. Green is thought to have beneficial effects on the mind, evoking a sense of calm and helping the wearer to relax. It’s also supposed to remind us of nature and the great outdoors.
This Boden jumpers offers the best of both worlds: a rich dark green background contrasted with pastel pinks and blues. The relaxed fit and full length blouson sleeves are super comfy – and it’s roomy enough to layer a shirt underneath. In fact, this is my go-to outfit for a kitchen catch-up with friends, or a day running errands. No matter how dismal the weather outside, the colour combination always manages to brighten my mood!
Grab a bargain
Want to inject some warmth and energy into your wardrobe, while keeping an eye on the price? While it’s clear to me the new season’s knitwear is all about self expression, if money is going to play a factor, why not consider a budget buy? Comfort will naturally still be key and chunky, affordable knits can give off some seriously cosy vibes.
I love the oversized fit of this Billi jumper from Moose in Woodbridge. Stripes are popular in the knitwear world and a strong pattern can elevate an outfit in seconds. This slouchy knit offers a relaxed look, which will suit working from home or a weekend walk. I tend to think more is more so you could even add this style to your knit repertoire, so you’ve got a cosy jumper for every occasion?
Sam Cook, Director of Moose on Market Hill in Woodbridge (Sam also owns No.10 which is situated further down the hill) adds: “Stripes are very on trend this season and will continue into next. This jumper is a trendy twist on a classic. Oversized, layer it up underneath to keep you warm and come spring the classic combination of blue and white will look great with white jeans on a cool summer’s evening, too.”
Ad: Thank you to the brands who kindly gifted and loaned knitwear to me – Sherpa Adventure Gear, Moose and No.10.
If the cooler weather is playing havoc with your hands, check out my cruelty-free hand wash & hand care best buys where I test a selection to keep your skin feeling clean, hydrated & supple here.
