
How to buy less, choose well and style your new favourite jumper so you'll always love it.
Photography I DANIEL Archer
styling I naomi barling
Mulled wine at the ready and sparklers on hand—jumper season is finally upon us. With short, grey, drizzly days in full swing, freezing nights closing and a SAD lamp in your Amazon basket - there's nothing quite like a chunky knit hug to cheer you up and make you winter-ready.
Cosy, durable and always on-trend, the humble knit has unlimited styling versatility.
Whether it is a blanket pullover, bulky cable-knit, ribbed roll-neck or oversized cardigan—the chunkier and bigger the better. There are no set rules on how to style your sweater, you can layer with anything. Slip skirt, classic denim, formal tailoring and even your sequin Christmas evening looks (for reference, see Christopher Kane or Simone Rocha). Adding some accessories, like a cross body, hobo-bag, heavy jewellery or a heel, will help refine the look for day-to-day—but ultimately this staple transitions from workday to night with ease.
Textured, printed, and deconstructed knits ensure that these pieces won’t feel so basic. Look for a design that speaks to you in terms of its colour, fit, and texture and you will be able to wear with most other things in your wardrobe. Fabric quality is key to making a chunky knit long-lasting; wool-cashmere will always be at the top of our list, but make sure you try it on first - if it’s too itchy you know you won’t enjoy wearing it, however stylish.
Finish your look by cinching (with a stand-out buckle belt) or tucking your knit into your trousers. Wearing masculine trousers? French tuck to balance out the look and add some low heels. If you’re a straight trouser lover, pair with calf-length boots and tuck in. If you prefer an ankle-grazer length, leave your trousers dragging and slouchy on the floor in an oversized fashion.
If you are more into a cropped jumper look go for one that is fitted on the waist and pair with a midi skirt and some slouchy 70’s boots or tailoring. Oh, and if feeling brave show a little tummy.
“I love mine oversized with deconstructed and loose textures - worn-looking finishes - they feel more lived in. I’ll pair with some straight leg workman pants and add heels for work to balance out the lack of shape and slouchiness in the oversized knit. For my off-duty look, I will pair with heavy boots to keep it really casual and comfy. I always add statement jewellery with pieces that naturally feel more casual as it creates a more finessed look.”
NAOMI BARLING, BURO. FASHION EDITOR
BURO.’s edit of the season’s top chunky knits.