‘It’s cold, isn’t it?’ seems to be the consensus this week, which means getting dressed each morning has started to become something of a nightmare. Winter coats are too thick and will leave me in a sweat, but if I opt for just a jumper, I’m shivering as soon as I step foot out of the house. The answer? Well, it lies in a knitted jacket - a sweet spot between the two that will erase your 'what will I wear today' outfit woes.

Think of it as a cardigan with far more substance. It has all the cosiness of your favourite knitwear, complete with button-up detailing, yet is designed with enough weight to double as a lightweight jacket. In other words, it’s the Goldilocks of layering, and M&S has one so chic, that I couldn’t believe it was just £45.

marks spencer knitted jacket
Marks & Spencer

Checked Funnel Neck Relaxed Fit Knitted Jacket

Checked Funnel Neck Relaxed Fit Knitted Jacket

Checked Funnel Neck Relaxed Fit Knitted Jacket

Credit: M&S

Offering far more structure than your usual knit, M&S's knitted jacket gives your outfit a smarter, polished appeal. On those days when you want to cosy up but still look put together, it's an easy win.

Complete with Funnel neck detailing (one of the season’s defining fashion shapes), the silhouette is seriously chic. Not only does the high, structured collar eliminate the need for a scarf, but it also lends the jacket a sleek and elevated finish. Its also has a cropped, relaxed shape that gives it that easy, off-duty appeal that the fashion crowd have been reaching for recently.

marks spencer knitted jacket
M&S

M&S's knitted jacket has also cleverly adopted the print of the season: heritage checks. In case you haven’t already noticed, the timeless motif is on just about everything right now - think kilts, dresses, and shirts. This time, though, M&S has given the print a modern twist, and has chosen this year's most popular colour combination - baby blue and chocolate brown.

Thanks to the print, styling is incredibly easy, so aim to keep the rest of your outfit pared back and you’ll still look polished. Throw it over a classic T-shirt and jeans for an easy everyday look, or lean into the chocolate hue with tailored brown trousers and matching loafers for a chic office outfit.