Simple fashion makes you look better and feel better. It’s about finding timeless clothes that’ll keep working their magic year after year. It’s the opposite of fast fashion trends which come and go in the blink of an eye.
This week, I’d like to talk about the cable knit jumper. There’s something magical about those intricate stitches. They conjure up everything I always dream of doing in autumn: rugged walks in the great outdoors, cliff-top walks and cosy afternoons in a country pub. Even if I don’t get any further than the supermarket or the school gates, wearing a cable knit still feels special. It’s the cosiness. Wearing one is like a big bear hug. They also go with everything.
One of my favourite ways to wear a cable-knit jumper is to layer it up with jeans, a denim shirt and ankle boots. I’m also loving mine with a teddy-bear jacket for extra warmth.
Cable knit jumpers are also the perfect partner for dresses and skirts. There’s something romantic and a bit whimsical about chunky wool and floaty fabric, isn’t there? Opposites attract and that combination of tough and pretty is captivating. Why shouldn’t you look like a windswept heroine while you do your weekly shop?
The buy it now jumper
Throughout this post, I’m wearing a H&M jumper which is no longer available. However, this one, also by H&M is almost identical. At £24.99 it’s affordable. Does that automatically mean it’s fast (and therefore bad) fashion? I don’t think so. In my experience, H&M make good quality clothes that last beyond one season. According to the Good Shipping Guide (an ethical clothing indexing site) they have good ethical credentials. I’ve already worn mine a lot since buying it, so it’s currently proving to be a good investment.
Investment jumpers
If you’d prefer to invest in a more expensive piece, then I’ve found this beautiful merino aran jumper (see below). It’s made in Ireland from organic and natural fibres, and it’s a beauty! I’ve also found this lovely, soft version by Boden. Again, at £80 it’s a bigger investment, but Boden knitwear is always very good quality. I often buy it second hand off eBay, which is a testament to its longevity!
Second-hand jumpers
If you prefer not to buy new, then it’s not going to be too difficult to find a cable-knit jumper in the charity shop. Try the men’s section for oversized, chunky knitwear. If you do buy anything made of pure wool or natural fibres, then just be careful about moths. Place your new jumper in a plastic bag in the freezer for a couple of days to kill off any unwanted pests!
Do you own a cable knit sweater already? I’d love to know how you’re wearing yours this autumn…
Brilliant tip about the freezer Lizzie. Thanks.
You’re welcome!
I love these jumpers, Lizzie, you look very stylish – as always.. I have a cream-coloured Scandi fisherman’s jumper and wear it everywhere and with everything. It goes on summer holidays with me and always on my bookclub visits to Christmas markets in Northern Europe.
I’m glad to hear H&M is rated highly as an ethical buyer. That makes me feel slightly less guilty about the amount of clothes I’ve purchased there.
Me too! I’ve always found H&M to last for a LONG time as well which also feels like a much more positive choice.
Today I’ve come to the conclusion that whatever you wear, Lizzie, you make it look fabulous! xxxxxxx