I’m a Fashion Editor—This is the Classic Winter Staple I Rely On Year After Year

Whether it’s because of our communal craving for all things cosy or a continuation of the comfortably chic cottagecore trend, the cable-knit jumper has fast become a wintry go-to in the wardrobes of some of fashion’s finest. Offering plenty of hand-spun, artisanal appeal, it’s a knitwear trend that I end up wearing more than any other in the winter months, and not just because it’s one of the easiest ways to add texture to a simple outfit.  

Whether I’m rushing out of the door and pull on a knit and jeans, or if I have the leisurely time to dress up a long skirt and knee-high boots, a cable-knit jumper is the piece that ties it all together and always manages to look both polished and effortless in a way that only the best knitwear can. 

And thanks to their evergreen appeal, whatever your style, there’s a cable-knit look for you. At the top of my wish list are knitted vests, worn with a preppy twist over a shirt or T-shirt and paired with high-waisted jeans. But there’s also the chunky cardigan, a typically conservative piece made all the more cool with a pair of glossy leather trousers and an equally chunky loafer. Or, perhaps you’re a knitwear traditionalist who prefers cosying up in leggings and a slouchy, oversized turtleneck once the winter weather rolls around. It all goes to prove just how versatile the knit can be.

So, if like me, this week was the first time you packed an umbrella, turned the heating on, or made sure you had a scarf to hand, keep scrolling to see and shop my cable-knit-jumper edit and prepare to get cosy for the foreseeable.

A classic cream cable knit doesn’t get better than this. 

I already loved this embellished knit, but it looks even better with a white shirt and knee-high boots. 

This one looks so much more expensive than it is.

Cropped knits are great for layering over dresses.

A gorgeous grey hue.

This jumper manages to combine cable-knit detail, beaded detailing and a cosy high neck, making it a strong contender for best high-street jumper this month. 

A cardi is also so chic.

I’ll be wearing this oversized cable-knit on rotation. The only decision is whether to go for the navy or the cream…

An investment, yes, but this knit will be a staple in your wardrobe forever.

Once again, Arket’s knitwear selection has seriously impressed up.

Proof that cable knits aren’t always a crew neck jumper, they can be cool layering pieces too.

It’s elegant on it’s own with jeans, but even better with the matching skirt.

A beautiful shade for the winter months.

Wear this buttoned-up as a top or undone and layered over a baby tee.

Wear this underneath an oversized blazer, over a white shirt with classic blue jeans for an easy weekend look. 

Love knitwear but hate neutrals? The colour of this Sézane sweater makes it feel anything but boring. 

Simple and timeless.

We love collared knits here at Who What Wear, especially in this versatile beige shade.

The styling here is immaculate.

Get cosy in this soft petrol-coloured sweater knitted from 70% wool.

The contrasting stitching on the neckline is a nice touch.

Olive green is a neutral in my book.

It would be rude not to get the whole set.

A pop of bright green is the dose of dopamine you’ll need to brighten a cold, grey morning.

This is such a unique piece.

Navy always feels so premium.

This story was published at an earlier time and has since been updated.

Up Next: The 9 Most Expensive-Looking Pieces on the High Street This Week