Argyle jumpers are in for Autumn – but did they ever really leave? A few years ago I made the decision to curate a timeless wardrobe, and argyle fits into it so well. Here’s how I’m styling my argyle cardigan for this season, and seasons to come!
Argyle: A Brief History
Argyle is the name of the overlapping diamond pattern often found on jumpers, scarves, socks, and knitwear. It is derived from the 17th century tartan of Clan Campbell of Argyll in Scotland, seen on their kilts, plaids, and patterned socks. However, the pattern is not considered a tartan, and is usually knitted rather than woven.
Today, you might associate argyle with Pringle of Scotland, or Vivienne Westwood, although it features on everything from football kits to tights! Whatever the case, it’s a classic design that sits ever so nicely with a smart pair of trousers, a heavy wool coat, and everything in-between!
What To Look For In Argyle Jumpers & Knitwear
If you’re thinking about investing in argyle this season, be sure to consider how it fits into your wardrobe. Argyle tends to dominate the clothing it’s featured on. It’s a bold, distinguished pattern. Even my black cardigan, which features a subtle, sheer interpretation of the pattern, stands out. While I can’t pull of the maximalist print trend, you might want to match print with more print, or choose colours that you can pull out from the pattern itself and into your outfit. Personally, I prefer to play with texture rather than colour. This works well with a monochromatic outfit, which I tend to go for.
In my guide to creating your own forever wardrobe, I recommend distilling modern styles compared with ephemeral trends. Argyle has been around since the 1600s, so it’s not likely to date, unlike other trends today. Really, think about whether it goes with your current wardrobe – do you wear a lot of knitwear? Bold prints? Colourful brights or muted tones? Then identify pieces that match. Not only match, but are wearable!
With knitwear in particular, I also recommend checking the label. By that I mean, look out for the fabric composition. Organic wool, recycled wool, and organic cotton are my favourite fibres for knitwear that’s kind to our planet.
How I Style My Cardigan This Autumn
Honestly, this shoot was a breeze because these outfits are essentially uniform to me. You’ve seen my skirt, tights, and boots combination a million times before. And the dark grey Tencel jeans? They’re the comfiest trousers I own!
Black Cardigan with Black Skirt & Tights
I actually love playing with sheer pieces in my wardrobe, especially in Autumn. Layering becomes a necessity, but sheer pieces still offer a little glimpse of skin without baring too much. Instead of pulling out colours from a traditional argyle print, I’ve tried to pull out textures, matching the sheer panels with sheer tights. The geometric print also works well with the slit in my mini skirt. What do you think?
Outfit details:
Black Cardigan – AllSaints via Very
Skirt – Second-hand and label-less!
Tights – Sheertex
Pumps – Jonak
Gold Bracelet – Monarc Jewellery
Argyle Cardigan with Slouchy Jeans
Here I’ve gone the other way and paired two opposites. The close-fit of the cardigan, its sexy sheer panels, and cropped waist made me want to reach for my baggiest jeans!
Not only is this outfit comfortable, it’s also wearable. To keep it cohesive, I’ve tied it together with little gold accents – in my earrings, chain-link bracelet, and on my belt. Which is your favourite?
Outfit details:
Black Cardigan – AllSaints via Very
Belt – A.P.C.
Jeans – Baukjen
Boots – Second-hand from Thrift+
Earrings and Bracelet – Monarc Jewellery
How are you styling your knitwear this season? Let me know below!
