Who can be bothered to dress up when the nights are dark and the days are cold? Definitely not me, argh! Picking out cute dresses, sandals and skirts is almost a pleasure in summer compared to choosing an outfit when the weather is bad.

But, dressing fashionably this season doesn’t have to take lots of time and planning. Instead of hibernating for the next four months, try being ‘effortlessly stylish’ — the method of using key wardrobe staples to create a polished outfit with almost no effort! 

Want to know more? QUIZ, a leading fashionista and top retailer of fashionable knitwear, has put together this amazing, easy-to-follow style guide to help you embrace the ‘effortlessly stylish’ lifestyle this season.

time for knitwear

It’s a well-loved staple of the winter wardrobe: this season revolves around knitwear. Having plenty of cute and chic woollies is essential for keeping your outfits looking incredible in the colder months, and top woolly trends to keep an eye out for this year are: cable knit, striped and oversized jumpers.

high-neck sweaters

Sweaters and jumpers are standard fashion pieces we’ve all been wearing since school. But get ready to see them transformed into high-fashion marvels with the art of layering. Just like the name suggests, layering is achieved by wearing multiple clothing over/under each other. For example: pull on a polo neck underneath a square-necked top. Then, all you have to do is pull on your favourite pair of jeans and ankle boots to master the look.

In the office, why not try a blazer/turtle-neck combo to keep you smart and cosy, or keep hold of the summer vibe by matching a roll neck top with one of your summery pinafores or sleeveless sundresses?

jumper dresses

Nothing says: “Just threw this on” in autumn like thick tights under a jumper dress. Finding garments to match with this style of versatile outfit is simple. Plus, with long knitted sleeves, there’s no need to search for a complementing coat, either.

If you want a knitwear outfit that takes you from casual to dressy, team your jumper dress with over-the-knee boots. Or, if you’re in the mood to show off your curves, wrap a chunky belt around your waist to pull you in.

customising your look

How do you put your own spin on your outfit and make the look your own? Accessorising is key to taking knitwear to the next level this season. Statement earrings are a key accessory. Find tassel, chunky metal and huge hoop designs and match them with almost any autumn winter outfit. To make things even easier, why not go for something neutral, like black or gold earrings, to make sure that they complement your ensemble and keep them in your bag for after-work drinks?

Polish off the knitwear vibe with cute, leather bags and backpacks for a practical spin on chic attire.  Black is an ideal everyday option. Buy the shade with a cute pattern to keep things interesting, or match it with jeans and red or gold shoes for a sophisticated autumn look.

autumn/winter footwear

Who doesn’t love their boots? One of the best things about the cold, rainy seasons is that we can bring our boots out in force. And luckily, they team up amazingly with knitwear.

Ankle boots dress up any outfit with minimal effort, but sock boots are a key trend this autumn and winter. Featuring a pointed toe, high heel and textured fabric that fits to the ankle, they slip on easily and look great with jeans during the day and a skirt on a night out. Trusty ankle boots are perfect for autumn and winter. Extremely versatile when it comes to matching them with your outfit, they’re also excellent at retaining their colour and form when you have to trek through snow and sludge to get to work! Choose a pair with a chunky heel so that they’re suitable for day and night.

Clearly, there’s a place for being ‘effortlessly stylish’ this season. So, enjoy a few extra minutes of relaxing at home before heading out by following these trend-led knitwear fashion tips.

*collaboration with QUIZ