This morning definitely called for a cardigan. At 12 degrees, it was a chilly reminder autumn has officially arrived. And it led me to thinking about the one knitwear update I'd recommend above all others now, and it's an argyle cardigan.
Once the preserve of golfers, grandads and Princess Diana's off-duty wardrobe, argyle now looks unexpectedly chic, and it's been a long time coming. I lay its stealthy revival at the doors of Prada who have no less than four different argyle knits in their new collection at prices starting from £1, 590 for a short sleeve cashmere knit.
It's all part of s slow burn trend for "Rich Peppy" styling; think cords, car coats and Scottish inspired knits which has put the diamond motif back on the fashion map. The result feels nostalgic without looking remotely old-fashioned.
The only snag? Most beautifully made wool versions now cost well over £100 - at Boden one will set you back £139 - and sometimes well over £1000, see Prada. Then I came across this argyle cardigan from White Stuff.
No, it isn't pure wool, but the blend of recycled polyester fibres with wool keeps the price refreshingly sensible at £69 - though this week it is 20% off at £55.20.
In my opinion, the design and cosy quality make it a keeper. In soft aqua, oatmeal and dark petrol blue, the argyle pattern looks fresh rather than fusty, while the cropped, round-neck silhouette gives it the same easy to style proportions we're seeing in jacket shapes this season.
The cutest detail is at the back, where the classic diamonds give way to a tonal plaid check. It's unexpected, playful and exactly the sort of thoughtful design twist that makes people want to know exactly where you found it.
The kind of classic cardigan that you know you'll keep for years to come. Crafted from a soft wool-mix blend and with a high neck, it's a warm layer for over-zealous office air-con or cooler days outdoors.
This cardigan will be ridiculously easy to incorporate into your style. Throw it over a white T-shirt with dark denim jeans and ankle boots, layer it under a blazer, and pair with wide-leg cords or trousers for work, or button it up with a tiered or denim midi skirt.
The soft blue tones work beautifully with dark denim, chocolate brown, cream, oatmeal and crisp white. I give it a 100% chance of slotting straight into your style, and keeping you both feeling warm and in tune with fashion.
