The arrival of winter leaves many people breathing sights of discontent. That’s not just because of the poor weather the season brings, but also because it means an end to a usually colourful and inventive summer wardrobe.

Clothes in winter often don’t seem to have the same creativity or spark as their summer counterparts. But this doesn’t have to be the case – with a little imagination, staples like cardigans and jumpers can still ensure that your winter outfits stand out from the crowd.

How To Wear Cardigans

The resurgence in popularity of the men’s cardigan over the last five years has much to do with its convenience. Simply slip on a cardigan over your t-shirt and your outfit is complete. But there are different types of cardigans, each of which is suitable for different occasions. Pair plain button-down cardigans with tailored trousers and a collared white shirt for office-wear that’s smart but not overly formal. Look for these cardigans in a delicate fabric like Merino wool, which is thin but warm and avoids adding bulk to your silhouette.

Cable knit cardigans, on the other hand, are chunkier and more suited to casual wear. Pull a cable knit cardigan over a t-shirt for a relaxed dinner out or a wander around a Christmas market. Hooded cardigans are a great casual option too: these look best worn over jeans and a t-shirt, and under a blazer for a chic but laid-back vibe on a night out.

The Best Jumpers For You

Similarly, there are several types of jumpers that suit different physical frames and personal styles. Crew neck jumpers, for instance, are ideal over a t-shirt while v-necks better accommodate collared shirts. Some men’s wool jumpers can be bulky, adding unnecessary padding to your appearance. Fabrics like Merino wool may seem thin but are actually great at keeping you warm, so are ideal for smarter jumpers. Try wearing a Merino wool jumper over a shirt and tie for elegant office-wear, or under a suit jacket at a winter wedding.

Alternatively, funnel-neck and roll-neck jumpers are luxuriously warm and lend themselves to layering. These jumpers cover your whole neck so they’re perfect for cold climates, though they’re often better suited to tall and slender men. More petite men may prefer jumpers with a few buttons at the neckline. This simple detail prevents high neck jumpers from making your physique appear smaller, and is the perfect way to give your body some air when it gets a bit stuffy on the bus or tube.