Last year could probably be summed up, clothing-wise, in two words - ‘cashmere’ and ‘bra’. The article in question was New York label Khaite’s Eda bralette which, whenworn by Katie Holmes with a matching barley-coloured cardigan called Scarlet, sent the internet into a tailspin.
It also started a cosy-adjacent trend that no one saw coming - the winter two-piece. Comprised of a double act of knitted garments - think a bra + cardigan or a tunic + trousers - it’s become the easiest way to stay warm and still look pulled-together. And it's showing no signs of going anywhere, despite the fact that we're edging towards spring. This is great news for anyone who's suddenly found themselves having to work from home or – even worse – in some sort of self-isolation...
We got a preview of the winter two-piece on the autumn/winter 19 catwalks. Lemaire’s chunky-knit polo neck dress was styled over similarly textured trousers. Rejina Pyo, meanwhile, styled a biscuit-coloured cardigan with slinky knitted pants. ‘A winter two-piece is my current uniform,’ says Tiffany Hsu, Mytheresa.com's Buying Director, who name-checks The Row, Agnona and Bruno Cuccinelli as go-to brands. 'You can throw it on, it's easy to travel in and it'll keep you warm without having to over-layer,' she says.
Nanushka, Nora Balloon-Sleeve Knit Shirt, £241, Nanushka, Leba Flared Knit Pants, £245
Nanushka, the Budapest-based brand known for its faux-leather, has diversified into deliciously soft co-ords made of merino, tencel and cashmere. Its Nora shirt and Leba pants, both in sumptuous cranberry red, are perfect for wearing both at home and, indeed, out of the house. ‘It’s comfortable, effortlessly chic and the knitted top has a shirt cut that gives it a modern appeal,’ says Nanushka’s founder Sandra Sandor. Massimo Dutti, meanwhile, has a polo neck and matching trousers, both cashmere-blend, that are smart enough for the office.
Note that you don’t have to stop at a two-piece. Mango’s ribbed trousers and top come with a matching cardigan, while Khaite’s Eda and Scarlet make a trio withBelinda - a pair of cashmere short-shorts. Well, just think: if you try them out, at least you'll be doing so within the confines of your own home.