How to Wear Knits

Dear Ask the Stylist

I’ve noticed lots of knits popping up in magazines and on celebrities. Can you tell me how to wear this trend and where’s best to shop for it?

In the coming weeks the Autumn/Winter collections will be arriving in stores with the knitted jumper emerging as one of the season’s key trends. From high street to high end designers have taken this winter fashion perennial and updated it in a contemporary way.

Whether you are looking for warm and cosy or fun and fashionable, there is a style to suit every taste and budget. Among the designers to feature sweaters were Christopher Kane with his vibrant cable knits, Ralph Lauren and his 40s inspired fair isles, DSquared's Sixties stunners and Markus Lupfer's comical crew necks. Even singer Lana del Rey got in the act when she sported a fluffy angora pullover in her new role as poster girl for H&M. How to wear knitted sweaters

A sweater is a wardrobe essential that can be dressed up or down depending on your lifestyle and occasion. For casual wear team your kitschy patterned sweater with indigo skinny jeans, for the office replace your stuffy blazer with a colourful knitted wrap and for eveningwear impact take your style cue from Derek Lam and DKNY who paired their knits with luxury fabrics like chiffon and leather. Where to buy knits

When buying knitwear, I would recommend you pay a little extra for quality and durability and invest in sumptuous cashmere or fine wool pieces if you can afford it. Marks and Spencer have machine washable cashmere jumpers in assorted colours for €95 (www.marksandspencer.ie). For more up-to-the minute looks check out River Island, Penneys and Topshop’s new arrivals. Styling Tips

Boyish Figures - Can wear most styles including this seasons must have, the polo neck. Wear jumpers belted at the waist to create the illusion of curves.

Big Busts -Polonecks will only emphasise a large bosom, so choose deep V, scoop or wrap tops in solid colours to elongate the décolletage and body.

Small Bust - Round and slash necks will draw eye away from a small bust; horizontal stripes are also very flattering on you.

Curvy – Avoid baggy tunics, cocoon or voluminous sweaters - these will look shapeless on you. Chunky knits will also add pounds. Fitted styles will accentuate your curves perfectly.

Petite – You don’t want to swamp your frame with oversized tops, go for short jumpers and classic cuts.