What’s not hot for winter
Stylish woollen knits are great temperature regulators for those in the subtropics
WINTER wardrobes can be tricky in the subtropics. The heavy coats and voluminous scarfs suitable for Melbourne will realistically only be needed a couple of days in the sunshine state.
However that’s not to say our bodies and wardrobes don’t need a little warmth this season.
Lauren Murphy of The Style Files says ultra fine and jersey style knits are the best choice.
“Woollen knits are surprisingly great temperature regulators, keeping you toasty in winter and cool on balmy summer nights,” Lauren says.
“A light ‘coatagin’ (a long, tailored cardigan) is a great staple to pair with our shorter, fitted dresses or a light cotton knit vest is great to layer over our informal tees and denim.”
According to Lauren, winter staple shades of navy and grey have some colourful competition this season.
“Monochrome is having to step aside and make room for some unexpected brights such as lush fuchsia, military greens, metallic shines,” she says.
“Knits with big bell or ruffled sleeves are making a statement this winter, along with cropped knits and the ’70s style turtle necks.
“I challenge everyone to think outside the box and remember that knit doesn’t just come in the form of a heavy jumper or cardigan. Mix up weights and abandon old conventions about what goes together, incorporating your favourite spring-summer pieces.
“Try a cute pair of ribbed, knit knee-high socks with a lighter shift dress, a knitted beanie with some boyfriend jeans and a tee or a knit mini skirt with biker boots and a leather jacket.”
If you invest in a few pieces this winter, Lauren says a bit of care will ensure they stay in prime condition.
“Try not to over-care or over-wash knitwear. Unless the label says otherwise, hand-wash knits in tepid water preferably using a specialist wool detergent. Rinse them in cold water and squeeze the water out but avoid aggressively wringing them out. Dry flat,” Lauren says.
“Knitwear should always be loosely folded and stored in an airy space.”
PHOTOS: Jerad Williams FASHION: All looks from Harbourtown Gold Coast harbourtown.com.au. Prices shown are outlet only and do not reflect the RRP. MODEL: Nina Hill, Sass Managament HAIR AND MAKE-UP: Lara Quinn STYLING: Lauren Murphy
@thesylefiles.aus SHOOT CO-ORDINATOR: The Pineapple Republic LOCATION: Gold Coast Regional Botanic Gardens, Benowa LOOK ONE – Everyday Knit: Kate Spade Flamingo Sweater $219.50; SES Fashion Cardi $19.95; Bardot Black Jeans $119.95; Universal Store Lack of Colour Hat $59; Sandler Black Jerome Boots $182. LOOK TWO – Preppy Knit: Portmans Spot Knit $59.95; Universal Store Perfect Stranger Button Shirt $59.95; Universal Store Ziggy Jeans $109; Sandlar Human Salty Shoes $49; Universal Store Quay Sunglasses $65. LOOK THREE – Weekend Knit: Forever New Cold Shoulder