The sunshine might have been clinging on, but the weather is finally beginning to creep towards autumn, signalling it may (finally!) be time to pack away those summer clothes. Looking to the season ahead, we're investing in timeless and essential pieces which work on rotation - and won't cost the earth. For style inspiration, we've been rifling through the Princess of Wales' autumn/winter wardrobe (well, figuratively speaking at least) from last year. And, we've spotted one piece in particular she's bringing into 2026 - the roll neck jumper.

Last winter, the Princess opted for classic staples including a roll neck, which she wore for a visit to the Royal Marsden Hospital. The piece caught our eye as it's in this season's key shade - burgundy - making it an ideal option to wear now. She paired it with a check coat in the same shade, for a cosy, monochrome look which proved the style (as well as practical) power of layering.

britains catherine, princess of wales waves following a visit to the royal marsden hospital in west london on january 14, 2025. (photo by chris jackson / pool / afp via getty images)
Chris Jackson
britains catherine, princess of wales smiles during a visit to the royal marsden hospital in west london on january 14, 2025. (photo by chris jackson / pool / afp via getty images)
Chris Jackson
london, england january 14: catherine, princess of wales during a visit to the royal marsden hospital on january 14, 2025 in london, england. the prince and princess of wales have today become joint patrons of the royal marsden nhs foundation trust following a visit by her royal highness to the hospital’s chelsea site. the princess’ own personal cancer journey saw her receive treatment from the royal marsden. the royal marsden opened its doors in 1851 as the world’s first hospital dedicated to cancer diagnosis, treatment, research and education. (photo by chris jackson/getty images)
Chris Jackson

While, on this occasion, Kate wore the long-sleeve roll neck in dress form, the style is most wearable as classic jumper which can be paired with jeans, skirts and trousers and used for layering up. Luckily, M&S have a cosy roll neck in the same deep wine shade of burgundy - and it's only £26:

M&S Air-Yarn Roll Neck Jumper

Air-Yarn Roll Neck Jumper

M&S Air-Yarn Roll Neck Jumper

The 'Air-Yarn Roll Neck Jumper' comes in 9 different shades, although colours and sizes are beginning to sell out. Included in the range is a deep green called 'holly', which matches the roll neck jumper Kate has already worn this season:

M&S Air-Yarn Roll Neck Jumper

Air-Yarn Roll Neck Jumper

M&S Air-Yarn Roll Neck Jumper

Last month, The Prince and Princess of Wales took part in a joint trip to the Isle of Bute in Scotland, which was their first visit to the location. Most of the activities the couple took part in took place outdoors, meaning Kate needed to rely on stylish but practical layers. At the centre of her look, was a deep, mossy green jumper with a roll neck.

britains prince william, prince of wales and britains catherine, princess of wales react as they visit the community owned anchor tavern pub  hub in port bannatyne in the isle of bute, scotland, september 17, 2026. (photo by jeff j mitchell / pool / afp via getty images)
JEFF J MITCHELL
rothesay, isle of bute, scotland september 17: catherine, princess of wales visits bute shinty club during a royal visit to the isle of bute on september 17, 2026 in rothesay, isle of bute, scotland. the prince and princess of wales, who also hold the titles of the duke and duchess of rothesay, visited the island to celebrate community, connection and volunteering. (photo by samir hussein/wireimage)
Samir Hussein

On this occasion, Kate paired her roll neck with jeans, Chelsea boots and a classic trench coat.