Now summer’s a distant memory and Christmas is just around the corner (we can’t believe it either...), there’s no better time to start investing in your new season wardrobe - and there’s nothing cosier on a fresh day than a warm knitted dress.
The phenomenon of forgetting how to dress as soon as the weather changes is an annual struggle. How many layers should I wear? Will a coat be too warm? Am I going to freeze to death as soon as the evening hits? Well, a knitted dress is the all-in-one solution to the problem.
For the months when you’re walking the tricky transitional tightrope, you should look for a lightweight or sleeveless design that will keep you warm without the risk of overheating as soon as you enter a building blessed with heating or a sauna-level tube. Consider styling them with trainers, or even sandals, in the balmy heights of an Indian summer.
When the frosty mornings start to roll in, a cashmere roll neck style à la Joseph, that’s essentially a super soft blanket with arms, will see you through the days when getting out of bed to brave the cold seems too much. To beat the chill, add an extra jacket, black tights and stomper boots for full weatherproof enjoyment.
The good news is that the options are endless. As a classic staple that’s been in the fashion spotlight over the past few chilly seasons, every brand from high street to high end have their own iterations of the cold-weather-saviour. Even better, once you’ve chosen the right style for you, it’ll be your winter companion for years to come.
Whether your style is bold and colourful, muted and understated, or somewhere in the middle, we’ve rounded up a selection that will suit any taste - and any budget.
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Joseph Pure Cashmere Dress
For a warm hug on a cold day, it’s Joseph’s cashmere dress you’ll want. Crafted from a super soft Mongolian cashmere, it’s cut to a relaxed fit with drop shoulders and a roll neck for a comfy outfit that you’ll never want to take off. A timeless style that will never go out of fashion, it’s an investment that will stand the test of time.
Buy now £745.00, Joseph
Cos Knitted MIdi Tube Dress
Knitted dresses don’t just have to be for the daytime, and Cos’ tube dress is the perfect option for the many evening events that are filling your social calendar. Designed in a bold cobalt blue, it’s a figure-hugging number with shaping at the waist to highlight the silhouette - and a touch of stretch for added comfort. Made using 43 per cent recycled fabric, it’s a sustainable option that won’t break the bank.
Buy now £79.00, Cos
Mango Knit Openwork Detail Sweater
For a homespun take on the look, Mango’s openwork detail dress fits the bill. Crafted using a thick knit with long sleeves and a high neck, it’s a toasty option perfect for days when there’s a chill in the air. Pair with gold jewellery and neutral shades for a tonal put-together look that requires minimum effort.
Buy now £69.99, Mango
Staud Shoko Two-tone Ribbed-Knit Jersey Midi Dress
Known for their playful use of colour, LA-based brand Staud’s two-tone knitted dress has an earthy palette that’s fit for autumn. Cut to a slim silhouette, it buttons down the front and features a slit for freedom of movement. A mid-weight knit, it’s a dress that will see you through the warmer months in ribbed-knit style.
Buy now £145.00, MatchesFashion
Me+Em Fashioned Rib A-Line Knit Dress
London based brand Me+Em’s mission is to create stylish, quality staples for women at an accessible price point - and the only place you can buy their designs is directly from them. Featuring a fitted A-line silhouette, this bright sleeveless design will make you stand out in the crowd.
Buy now £225.00, Me+Em
Arket High-Neck Knitted Dress
If you want to roll out of bed, but feel like you haven’t, Arket’s wool dress is the one for you. Designed with a relaxed, straight silhouette that falls below the knee, it’s an easy-to-wear piece whether you’re going for a walk in the park or relaxing at home. Masters in creating timeless classics that last, it’s a piece you’ll be able to wear for years to come.
Buy now £69.00, Arket
Whistles Willow Striped Knitted Dress
Made as a limited run, Whistles’ knitted dress is an exclusive piece that you’d be sad to miss out on. With stripes in neutral colours, it has a homespun feel that could be worn as easily for a day strolling around the countryside as for a day exploring the city. Pair with the matching cardigan to complete the look.
Buy now £150.00, Whistles
Jigsaw Ribbed Slouchy Jumper Dress
Jigsaw’s merino knit dress is about as cosy as it comes. Crafted using a super soft wool with a relaxed fit, drop shoulders and wide sleeves, it’s a dress you’ll want to wear every day. On days when there’s a nip in the air, consider layering over a pair of relaxed fit black trousers for some extra warmth.
Buy now £185.00, Jigsaw
Reformation Alexei Knit Dress
Perhaps not the warmest of knit dresses but certainly the sexiest, Reformation’s slim fitting design is an LBD that will turn heads. Featuring a centre-front cut-out, a spaghetti halter neck strap and long sleeves, it’s a feminine design that’s perfect for those who want to make an entrance. Accessorise with black for a chic monochrome outfit.
Buy now £150.00, Selfridges
Loulou Studio Alby Striped Cable-Knit Merino Wool and Cashmere-Blend Midi Dress
When you only have minutes to get ready, you’ll be pleased you’ve got Parisian brand Loulou Studio’s cable knit dress folded (never hanging!) in your wardrobe. Cable knitted from merino wool and cashmere patterned with contrasting stripes, it’s a graphic design that looks dressed up, even with minimum effort. Tuck your hair into the neck to amp up the look.
Buy now £380.00, Net-A-Porter
