THE SNUGGLE IS REAL

It has recently been brought to my attention that jazzy knits are my ‘thing’. I honestly had no idea, until I examined the evidence – it’s true, my winter wardrobe spans striped lurex jumpers to neon braided cardigans. So based on the fact that a great sweater or cardie is the easiest thing in the world to wear ( just add jeans), here are some recent discoveries that I think are worth trying at home now that the cold is really setting in…

LALO

Tbilisi-based sisters Lalo and Nina Dolidze began handmaking their bright, braided cardigans in 2012 using traditional Georgian knitting techniques, and employing local craftsmen. As their label grew, so did their product offering, but the cardies – whether patchworked, braided or covered in shaggy fringing – are still at the centre of it all. From £335, lalocardigans.com.

I LOVE MR MITTENS

I can’t pretend I understand the name. But this brand, founded by Antwerp-based designer Stéphanie Caulier, does some of the heftiest jumpers I’ve ever seen. Each is handmade by community of independent knitters.

COVE CASHMERE

Friends Sarah Kocher and Jacqueline Berglund launched Bishop’sstortford brand Cove in 2011. Its range is small and formed of classics, but the colours are vivid and seem to withstand a cold wash in the machine if, like me, you’re too lazy to treat cashmere properly. From £99, covecashmere.co.uk.

ALLUDE

Chic oversized hoodies are a specialism for Andrea Karg, founder of Munich label Allude. Wear yours loose with leggings to pad around the house, or half-tuck it into black jeans and add heels to go out for drinks. Cashmere hoodie, £525, net-a-porter.com.