Although winter may bring with it cooler temperatures, shorter days and greyer skies, there are some things I love about this season. It will likely come as no surprise, that as a fashion editor, one of things I love most is the wardrobe. Cosy wool coats, fluffy accessories and, the one sartorial staple that dominates both my outfits and my mood boards the most, the jumper. A great jumper is more than just a cold-weather essential—it's a timeless piece that effortlessly bridges the gap between comfort and style. Over the years, I've come to realise that one of the hardest working staples in my capsule wardrobe is the high-quality jumper. Be it a plain cashmere Uniqlo crew neck, or a more designer statement piece such as a Ganni logo jumper, I've found that there are many under £500 that are sure to elevate your winter style.
Lately, my Pinterest boards have been a flurry of knitwear inspiration, ranging from chunky, oversized designs that embody après-ski chic to sleek, minimalist turtlenecks that nod to Phoebe Philo-era Céline. Even in the Who What Wear office, knitwear has been dominating our collective wardrobe rotation. Think Breton-striped classics paired with jeans or cashmere layers thrown casually over shoulders—a masterclass in nailing knitwear nonchalance.
Scrolling through Instagram, I've noticed the same trends cropping up on some of my favourite fashion accounts: polished cashmere co-ords, soft alpaca textures, and versatile stripes that pair as well with leather trousers as they do with slip skirts.
Runway collections this year have also embraced knitwear in a major way. Gabriela Hearst's FW24 show highlighted luxurious, oversized knits that looked like wearable art, while Prada's intricate ribbed jumpers proved that functionality doesn't have to sacrifice design. Acne Studios brought an edge to alpaca and mohair with unconventional textures, and Chanel, true to form, made turtlenecks a central part of their layered looks. These styles don't just sit on the runway—they translate seamlessly into real life, offering plenty of inspiration for curating your own collection of chic jumpers under £500.
When it comes to building my winter wardrobe, jumpers are the MVP. They're endlessly versatile and easily styled for any occasion. A striped knit can transform a casual jeans-and-boots look, while a chunky jumper is the perfect companion for a weekend spent lounging. A turtleneck serves as a sartorial layering hero, while alpaca adds softness and dimension to any outfit. And, of course, cashmere is the ultimate in understated luxury. Below, I've rounded up five of the season's most stylish best jumpers under £500—and the key pieces that deserve a spot in your wardrobe right now.
Shop Chic Jumpers Under £500:
1. Striped Jumpers
Style Notes: The striped jumper is a perennial favourite, but this season, it's all about the classic Breton with a twist. Think relaxed fits, unexpected colour combinations, and elevated details like gold-buttoned cuffs or subtle embroidery. Stripes were everywhere on the FW24 runways, from the nautical vibes at JW Anderson to the bold patterns at Loewe. It's a jumper you'll reach for time and time again, whether you're running errands or heading to brunch. Pair a striped jumper with wide-leg jeans and loafers for a polished off-duty look, or throw it over a midi skirt for a touch of Parisian cool. For a modern twist, layer it over a collared shirt with tailored trousers.
Shop Stripped Jumpers:
Sleek and elevated with zero branding, but if you know, you know.
A cosy option with thick, bold stripes and an elongated silhouette.
I love the button detail here.
Perfectly boxy for a laid-back feel, La Ligne always knows how to get a striped jumper right.
2. Cashmere Jumpers
Style Notes: If there's one fabric that embodies timeless luxury, it's cashmere. This season, designers like Khaite and Max Mara have leaned into ultra-soft textures and neutral tones, with high street stores like & Other Stories following suit, making cashmere the go-to choice for those who appreciate understated elegance. Cashmere jumpers are endlessly versatile—wear one with tailored trousers for work, or drape it over your shoulders for an effortless, preppy vibe.
Shop Cashmere Jumpers:
As cashmere jumpers go, this is affordable, yet feels anything but.
A sleek and sophisticated choice in the most sky blue that you can find.
This wool and cashmere blend jumper takes on an oversized fit that is so soft and cosy. Super cute worn with some baggy jeans for a brunch date.
A polo is a classic wardrobe essential.
3. Alpaca Jumpers
Style Notes: Alpaca wool is growing in popularity for many looking to invest in knitwear made with natural materials. Not as expensive as cashmere, slightly more durable and less prone to pilling (and let's not forget that a slightly fuzzy texture that feels oh-so cosy), I've collected a few over the years. On the high street, Arket has been championing this trend with the oversized silhouette and dreamy pastel hues. Pair a alpaca jumper with a satin slip skirt for an unexpected mix of textures, or team it with leather trousers for a cool, off-duty look. Add chunky boots to balance the softness.
Shop Alpaca Jumpers:
Perfectly slouchy and effortlessly stylish. This is a fashion editor favourite.
This muted green is so winter-coded.
A refined take on a statement, chunky piece. This alpaca-blend knit is on my wish-list for the seaon.
Budget-friendly with a luxurious feel. I can see it styled with a leather mini skirt and some loafers.
4. Turtleneck Jumpers
Style Notes: Few pieces are as quintessentially winter as the turtleneck jumper. Layer a turtleneck under a blazer for a polished workwear look, or tuck it into high-waisted jeans for a minimalist outfit. Oversized turtlenecks work beautifully with wide-leg trousers for a more relaxed silhouette.
Shop Turtleneck Jumpers:
A classic staple at an unbeatable price.
I think Fair Isle jumpers can be a hit or miss but this one from We Norwegians is just so chic. Luxurious without being fussy.
The slouchy arms and undone feel of this turtleneck is what makes it stand out in a crowd.
A fitted option that's perfect for layering.
5. Chunky Jumpers
Style Notes: Chunky knits have become a fashion favourite thanks to their cosy, oversized silhouettes. This season, they've been elevated with bold textures and exaggerated proportions, making them as stylish as they are practical. A chunky jumper pairs effortlessly with everything from skinny jeans to midi skirts. For a contemporary look, wear it half-tucked into tailored trousers with ankle boots.
Shop Chunky Jumpers:
It doesn't get any more thicker than a cable knit. This cream pieces from ASOS is both affordable and on-trend.
This is a great high street dupe for the Ophelia sweater from The Row and is the jumper of the season.
The perfect balance of slouchy and chic.
A statement piece that still feels and looks classic.
