Cardigans to keep you cosy all Autumn
15th Oct 2020 Fashion & Beauty
Buttons or wrap ties, collars or cuffs… getting your cardigans out of storage is a bonafide sign that summertime is over and layering is firmly back on the agenda
While staying at home might mean that that bobbly-old favourite from years past will be more than permissible for another winter, treating yourself to a fashion-forward new option can be worth the investment if it presents you with a variety of styling options. Whatever your budget or occasion, there are an array of high street options to tick your box. Here's what to save, spend or splurge on.
Save
Outfit 1: Monki Cardigan (£35), Whistles Trousers (£69), Uniqlo Coat (£79.90), ASOS Headband (£7), &OtherStories Boots (£135), Aark Watch (£99)
Outfit 2: H&M Cardigan (£39.99), Zara Dress (£15.99), ASOS Belt (£10), Mango Boots (£59.99), Linda Hallbery Crayon Liner (£14)
Outfit 3: Sainsburys Cardigan (£20), New Look Bodysuit (£14.99) Gap Jeans (£24.95), Bertie Trainers (£49), Armani Lip Maestro Gloss (£32)
If you’re choosing from the cheaper end of the knitwear market, softer colour palettes can update your wardrobe while being more forgiving to the occasional piling or bobbling effect. Play with textures and proportions – oversized collars, structured shoulders and fuzzy balloon sleeves are all key trends for 2020 that will still work well in a years time.
For real layering points, bodysuits can be a great way to stay warm without creating uncomfortable ruching at the top of your jeans. Dress down with baggy jeans and trainers to avoid an overly twee finish – while the look is somewhat retro, a matchy-matchy school uniform effect might be a bridge too far...
Spend
Outfit 1: Whistles Cardigan (£99), Warehouse Dress (£46), Topshop Boots (£69), Matalan Scarf (£8), John Lewis Thermal Vest (£16), Toast Beret (£39)
Outfit 2: Hush Cardigan (£125), Girlfriend Collective Sports Bra (£35), Zara Sweatpants (£15.99), Aloyoga Exercise Socks (£24)
Outfit 3: Sandro Paris Cardigan (£260), Allude Turtleneck (£175), Jeager Trousers (£89), Kurt Gieger Heels (£99), Thomas Sabo Glasses Chain (£29)
What’s the betting that you have an unloved floral summer frock lurking at the back at your wardrobe? Pull it out and make it work for autumn by teaming with soft textures in gently clashing colours. Pigeon blue, mauve and mustard are all a nice alternative to the usual cold-weather palette of grey and black.
Whether you’re unwinding in a socially distant yoga session or taking an important zoom meeting, you can still dress for your role without sacrificing comfort. Block colour basics allow a jazzier piece of knitwear to shine without complicating the layering process. As always, jewellery will help to tie everything together.
Splurge
Outfit 1: MSGM Cardigan (£450), Everlane T-Shirt (£14), Marks And Spencer Jogging Bottoms (£25), Ugg Slippers (£100), Barry M Green Origin Nail Varnish (£3.99)
Outfit 2: Miu Miu Cardigan (£860), Cos skirt (£69), Chloe Handbag (£1220), Swedish Stockings Tights (£20), Clarks Heels (£64.50)
Outfit 3: Etro Cardigan (£770), Ted baker Top (£49), Next Jeans (£28), Pilar Sandals (£120), Marni Bag (£1370), Glassware London Socks (£4)
If you’re treating yourself at this price point, the best way to ensure value for money is to pay attention to both fabric choice and finish. A high wool content will wash and wear well, while detailed embroidery, bold-contrast prints or a close-fitting ribbed material will all give off an air of timelessness that will outlast the season’s trends. Length might also be important - think about where you usually prefer your clothes to sit, and opt for the garment that will make you feel great every time you put it on.
Traditional autumn colours of navy, rust and brown are useful staples, but don’t forget that fashion is still meant to be a balance between practicality and fun. A colourful sock peeping from the toe of a sandal, a patterned pair of tights or even a statement nail polish can all lift your mood during the colder weather, making your cardigan choice feel intentional rather than just something to shove on as a necessity.
Read more: How to shop more sustainably
Read more: 5 Ways to keep your garments looking good
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