Warm and cosy jumpers are making a return with the start of autumn. But what are the best ways of wearing a men’s jumper?
What’s your style?
It’s not just a case of crew neck versus V-neck. There are several types of men’s jumpers available, depending on the occasion.
Cashmere
Cashmere jumpers are made from goat hair and although lightweight, are surprisingly warm. A V-neck cashmere jumper paired with a t-shirt or collared shirt creates a smart look and as they come in an array of colours, you can dress up or down. For a casual style, wear it with jeans and a polo shirt, or add a white shirt and neutral trousers like chinos for a smarter feel. For a bit of fun, you could wear a patterned shirt underneath.
They can easily be worn under a jacket if you want to have a tailored look. Cashmere is often used for polo neck sweaters, which also look good under a jacket. The Telegraph says that polo necks are now seen as acceptable items to replace the traditional suit and tie.
Knitted
For a warmer, more country-style feel, Irish sweaters for men, more commonly known as Aran sweaters, such as the ones you can see at https://shoparan.com/mens-aran-sweaters/, can be paired with a checked shirt underneath and blue or black jeans. The weave of an Aran sweater already provides some interest, as does the pattern of a Fair Isle jumper, which comes in a variety of bright colours.
Cotton and linen
Cotton and linen sweaters are more casual and lightweight, but they can still look smart if worn in the right way and they are easy to wash in a machine. They are more breathable, which makes them suitable for a work environment which may be warm and stuffy.
Most importantly, a men’s jumper should be the right shape for your body type and not too loose or too tight to look good. It should fall just below your waist with the shoulder seams directly on your shoulder bone, and sleeves should fall on your wrists.
Colour, shape and material when buying
Before thinking about how to style a jumper, it helps to choose the right one, whether for yourself or as a gift. Budget is the first consideration, but colour comes close behind. Think about what you like to wear and what is already in the wardrobe, so the new jumper works with trousers and shoes you own. If your drawer is already full of black knitwear, a different colour can freshen things up.
Shape matters too. Jumpers are not all cut the same way. Some are more fitted at the waist than others, and necklines vary, with round necks and V-necks giving quite different looks over a shirt or T-shirt.
Finally, consider the material and what the jumper is for. One worn over a shirt at work calls for something finer, while a jumper for long autumn walks needs thicker wool and a more durable knit that will stand up to the weather.
Five outfit ideas built around knitwear
An all-black outfit is a simple way to look sharp while staying warm. A cable knit sweater works well with black chinos and Chelsea boots, and a V-neck or polo-neck pullover suits anyone who prefers a plainer knit. Keep the shade of black consistent from top to toe.
A crew neck jumper under a sports jacket creates a smart, man-about-town look. Make sure the two complement each other, usually with a lighter jumper and darker jacket or trousers. Navy and white, brown and burgundy, and grey and black all work well.
Many jumpers also look good with a shirt collar peeking out. A plain V-neck over a patterned shirt, such as gingham or tartan, creates a striking contrast. For an old-school look, pair a Fair Isle jumper with a tie, but keep the shirt and tie neutral so the jumper remains the focal point.