Each year, we get to February and I make the mistake of trying to (prematurely) swap my cashmere jumpers for something a little lighter. Without fail, each time I step out, the harsh winds and grey skies remind me that I should have clung on to my cashmere knits for slightly longer. Cashmere is more than just a fabric, it's a lifeline in the depths of winter - a warm, cocooning material that shields you from the cold while keeping you looking effortlessly chic. Typically punchy in price, Marks & Spencer's cashmere offering is the best on the high street, and actually affordable. It was only a couple of months ago that I was raving about its Cashmere Crew Neck Jumper. Now, there's another M&S jumper to have on your radar, in the form of the Pure Cashmere Roll Neck Jumper.
Cashmere, without the three-figure price tag, can indeed exist - M&S is proof of that. Its roll neck is made from 100% cashmere, giving it that coveted, weightless warmth without the designer markup. Plus, the jumper, with its cosy high neck, is available in a selection of timeless colours - from versatile oatmeal to richer, mood-boosting tones like bright pink and turquoise.
M&S www.marksandspencer.com
A roll neck jumper is a must-have in any wardrobe, and this one, crafted from a gloriously soft cashmere is one to bookmark. Plus, the cosy jumper is available in a selection of shades that mirror the season - think grey, navy and green - as well as colours that will suit more of a classic wardrobe.
The great thing about a jumper like this is that it needs little to no styling. Pair the Pure Cashmere Roll Neck Jumper with tailored trousers and pointed black boots for a more polished look, or throw it on with your favourite denim jeans (or alternatively even the viral M&S horseshoe jeans). The jumper's relaxed silhouette will also layer under oversized coats or sharp blazers, meaning it can be easily transitioned from day to night. Ultimately, the design is versatile enough to be styled up or down, making it a go-to staple for those days when spring feels impossibly far away.
When spring finally does arrive, you'll find yourself almost reluctant to fold this M&S knit away. Until then, it's the perfect antidote to winter's freezing temperatures.
Shop: Alternative Cashmere Roll Neck Jumpers
M&S www.marksandspencer.com
The M&S cashmere jumper also comes in seven other colours. Of course, grey is up there with one of the most popular shades - but next on the list? Navy. Another colour that goes with pretty much anything, style the roll neck with wide leg trousers and chunky loafers.
Uniqlo www.uniqlo.com
Uniqlo also has a great 100% cashmere jumper - and again, without the three digit price tag. The brand cleverly uses special processing to prevent piling, meaning you'll be able to reach for this jumper winter after winter.
Aligne aligne.co
Aligne currently has a sale on and amongst the discounted gems lies this cashmere roll neck jumper. Made from recycled cashmere, the jumper features long sleeves, a relaxed fit and classic roll neck. Style tucked into striped trousers or with a mini skirt and knee high boots.
Reiss www.reiss.com
Reiss' Eliza jumper is made from soft wool with a touch of premium cashmere, resulting in a knit that's super soft. Whether you're wearing it to snuggle into the sofa to watch a film, or to the office, this jumper, with its exaggerated roll neck and ribbed trims, will give a polished edge to any outfit.
COS www.cos.com
An iteration of COS' best-selling crew-neck cashmere jumper (that's also a good alternative to The Row's £1,440 Ophelia Jumper) this style has now been released in a turtleneck too. It features a relaxed oversized fit, weighty feel and polished ribbed trims.
Main image credit: Instagram/@hollyelizabethblog
Gemma Lavers is a fashion commerce writer at Grazia, where she tracks down viral pieces and is as comfortable navigating the M&S new-in page as she is dissecting the latest celebrity look - yes, she can tell you exactly where a specific coat is from. When not writing, shopping or scrolling Instagram (find hers here), Gemma will likely be dreaming up her next holiday (and what she's going to wear).