After years as a fashion editor, one thing has become abundantly clear: not all winter outfits are created equal. Of course, their primary function is to keep you warm—if they're doing that, you're already winning. But if you’re aiming to craft an ensemble that’s as chic as it is cosy, well, that’s a whole different ballgame.
The key, in my experience, lies in the layers you choose. A second-skin base is a must—it creates the perfect foundation for everything else to sit smoothly on the body. But beyond that it's all about the details. Proportions, for instance, can completely transform an outfit. Take the tall roll-neck knit: layered beneath a jacket or shirt and then topped with a structured coat, this single piece can elevate your entire look. It’s a simple formula, but one of the chicest combinations I can think of for winter dressing.
Phoebe Dynevor recently offered a masterclass in this styling trick, stepping out in an elegant layered look that had me ready to out my own roll-neck knit. Dynevor paired a sleek, form-fitting roll-neck top under a light brown suede jacket, which she styled with a matching skirt. To complete the ensemble, she added one more layer: a calf-length camel coat. The result? An outfit that’s both polished and practical. Finishing her look with Celine's new Small Camille 16 bag (£2100), which launches on 30 January, and knee-high boots, Dynevor's outfit ticked all the chic winter styling boxes I can think of.
What made it particularly striking was the roll-neck itself. Peeking out from beneath her jacket, the knit extended elegantly up her neck, adding warmth and elongating her proportions.
As we settle deeper into winter and our go-to knits start to feel a little too familiar, this layering trick offers a fresh way to reinvigorate your looks. Whether layered under a crisp cotton shirt for a touch of texture, then styled beneath a heavier coat and blazer, a roll-neck is an unsung knitwear hero.
Extending the life of the lighter items in your wardrobe, this trick ensures you look as stylish as you feel snug—layering roll necks is an outfit formula fashion editors always come back to in the cold, especially during fashion month, so it has that going for it, too.
Now, I will be shocked if you don't already have a roll-knit in your wardrobe but if that is indeed the case, read on discover our edit of the best roll-neck knits below.
SHOP BEST ROLL NECKS:
This also comes in eight other shades, including black and a leopard print.
At less that £15, you really can't go wrong.
Shop this whilst it's on sale.
The chocolate brown colour trend is taking off this winter.
Style with denim to keep things simple, otherwise, layer it underneath a cotton shirt and wear with tailored trousers.
This also comes in five other shades.
This light grey shade is so easy to slot into a capsule wardrobe.
Style with sharp tailoring for a chic city look.
This also comes in six other neutral shades.
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