Despite winter's cooler temperatures, shorter days and greyer skies, there are some things I love about this season.
Namely, cosy wool coats, fluffy accessories and the one fashion staple that dominates my outfits and mood boards the most: the jumper. A great jumper is more than just a cold-weather essential—it's a timeless piece that effortlessly bridges the gap between comfort and style. Be it a plain cashmere crew neck from Uniqlo or a designer piece such as a Ganni logo jumper, I've found plenty of excellent (and very chic) jumpers under £500 that are sure to elevate your winter style.
Lately, my Pinterest boards are a flurry of knitwear inspiration, ranging from chunky, oversized designs that embody après-ski chic to sleek, minimalist roll necks that nod to Phoebe-Philo era Céline. And in the Who What Wear UK office, knitwear has been dominating our collective wardrobe rotation. Think Breton-striped classics paired with jeans or cashmere layers thrown casually over shoulders—a masterclass in nailing knitwear nonchalance.
Scrolling through Instagram, I've noticed the same trends cropping up on some of my favourite fashion accounts: polished cashmere co-ords, soft alpaca textures and versatile stripes that pair just as well with leather trousers as they do slip skirts.
This season's runway collections have also embraced knitwear in a major way. Gabriela Hearst's autumn/winter 2024 show highlighted luxurious oversized knits that looked like wearable art, whilst Prada's intricate ribbed jumpers proved that functionality doesn't have to sacrifice design. Acne Studios brought an edge to alpaca and mohair with unconventional textures, and Chanel, true to form, made turtlenecks a central part of layered looks. These styles don't just sit on the runway though—they translate seamlessly into real life, offering plenty of inspiration for curating your own collection of beloved jumpers.
By now, it should come as no surprise that jumpers are the MVPs of my winter wardrobe. A striped knit can transform a casual jeans-and-boots look, whilst a chunky jumper is the perfect companion for a weekend spent lounging; a turtleneck serves as a layering hero, whilst alpaca adds softness and dimension to any outfit. And, of course, cashmere is the ultimate in understated luxury.
Below, I've put my knitwear expertise and enthusiasm to good use and rounded up five of the season's most stylish jumpers under £500.
Shop Chic Jumpers Under £500:
1. Striped Jumpers
Style Notes: The striped jumper is a perennial favourite, but this season, it's all about the classic Breton with a twist. Think relaxed fits, unexpected colour combinations and elevated details like gold-buttoned cuffs or subtle embroidery. Stripes were everywhere on the A/W 24 runways, from the nautical vibes at JW Anderson to the bold patterns at Loewe. It's a jumper you'll reach for time and again, whether you're running errands or heading to brunch. Pair a striped jumper with wide-leg jeans and loafers for a polished off-duty look, or throw it over a midi skirt for a touch of Parisian cool. For a modern twist, layer it over a collared shirt with tailored trousers.
Shop Striped Jumpers:
Sleek and elevated, this is a true classic.
A cosy option with thick, bold stripes and an elongated silhouette.
I love the button-neck detail.
Perfectly boxy for a laid-back feel, La Ligne always knows how to get a striped jumper right.
2. Cashmere Jumpers
Style Notes: If there's one fabric that embodies timeless luxury, it's cashmere. This season, designers like Khaite and Max Mara have leaned into ultra-soft textures and neutral tones, with high-street stores like & Other Stories following suit, making cashmere the go-to choice for those who appreciate understated elegance. Cashmere jumpers are endlessly versatile—wear one with tailored trousers for work or drape it over your shoulders for an effortless, preppy vibe.
Shop Cashmere Jumpers:
As cashmere jumpers go, this is affordable yet feels anything but.
A sleek and sophisticated choice in a beautiful sky-blue shade.
This wool-and-cashmere-blend jumper has an oversized fit that is so soft and cosy. It would look super cute worn with baggy jeans for a brunch date.
A polo is a classic wardrobe essential.
3. Alpaca Jumpers
Style Notes: Alpaca wool is growing in popularity for many looking to invest in knitwear made from natural materials. It isn't as expensive as cashmere and is slightly more durable and less prone to pilling (and let's not forget that a slightly fuzzy texture feels so cosy). On the high street, Arket has been championing the trend with oversized silhouettes and dreamy pastel hues. Pair an alpaca jumper with a satin slip skirt for an unexpected mix of textures, or team it with leather trousers for a cool off-duty look. Add chunky boots to balance the softness.
Shop Alpaca Jumpers:
Perfectly slouchy and effortlessly stylish. This is a fashion-editor favourite.
This muted green is so winter-coded.
A refined take on a chunky statement jumper. This alpaca-blend knit is on my wish list for the season.
Budget-friendly with a luxurious feel, I can see this one styled with a leather miniskirt and loafers.
4. Turtleneck Jumpers
Style Notes: Few pieces are as quintessentially "winter" as a turtleneck (or roll-neck) jumper. Layer one under a blazer if you're after a polished work look, or tuck it into high-waisted jeans for a minimalist outfit. Oversized turtlenecks work beautifully with wide-leg trousers for a more relaxed silhouette.
Shop Turtleneck Jumpers:
A classic staple at an unbeatable price.
I think Fair Isle jumpers can be a hit or miss, but this one from We Norwegians is just so chic. It's luxurious without being fussy.
The slouchy arms and undone feel of this turtleneck are what make it stand out from the rest.
A fitted option that's perfect for layering.
5. Chunky Jumpers
Style Notes: Snuggly and roomy, chunky knits have become a fashion favourite. This season, they're elevated with bold textures and exaggerated proportions, making them as stylish as they are practical. A chunky jumper pairs effortlessly with everything from skinny jeans to midi skirts, but for a contemporary look, wear it half-tucked into tailored trousers with ankle boots.
Shop Chunky Jumpers:
Jumpers don't get thicker than cable knits. This cream piece from ASOS is both affordable and on-trend.
The jumper of the season, this offering from COS is a great high-street alternative for The Row's Ophelia sweater.
The perfect balance of slouchy and chic.
A statement piece that still feels and looks classic.
