How to wear your cosy cardigan and sweaters with dresses this Autumn


Disclosure: AD, this is a sponsored post, however all opinions are 100% my own.


We can really feel the drop in temperature, what happened to having a late summer? I think that moment has passed! I don't mind too much though, as Autumn is my favourite time of year. 

Bring on the big sweaters, long boots and excuses to have hot chocolate! However, these transitional seasons can throw up a few sartorial issues! What if you would like to get the most out of some of your dresses and summer trousers, taking them into the fall? 

We find this is a great way of making your clothing work harder all year round and as styles are based a lot more on comfort now you can mix your jumpers with your dresses. 

We go back time and again to Cotton Traders who are a failsafe brand for stylish, classic looks from outerwear, casual wear or even a date night. Their pieces are well made and last through the years so you will have items you go back every season, incorporating them into your personal style. 

They have just launched a selection of cosy knits and feminine tailored pieces to bring a little bit of sophistication to your wardrobe. This is another of their popular collections curated by the lovely Alex Jones. Her style and choices are the perfect every day looks and keep you feeling on trend but warm now the heating is going on! 

These are my recommendations for different ways you can wear summer dresses on cold days. They work for school runs, office days or heading out for a pub lunch by the fire. These winter outfits will make your life easier! 

How to wear your sweaters this Autumn

Credit: Cotton Traders.

Space Dye Jumper

If you're looking for slightly oversized sweaters which keep you super cosy but still feel very feminine, this space dye jumper is ideal. Available with a multicoloured space dye yarn or the autumnal shade of Bark, this is great for pairing with any dress combos or a cord skirt. 

The chunky knit is just what you need on these colder days and will work just as well with trousers and ankle boots. A real fall staple and an easy way to put together a quick outfit with a laid-back vibe.

The longer length raglan sleeves give that extra hint of comfort and the ribbed cuff and hem details add to the luxury feel of this item. It's extremely soft and flattering with its looser fit so great to layer up for cooler weather. 

Credit: Cotton Traders.

Stripe Pointelle Cardigan

This Pointelle design cardigan is pretty, delicate and takes your dresses or trousers to the next level. Put together with some knee-high boots and a leather jacket you have a perfect outfit for work or heading out to lunch. 

With mock horn button-through detailing, this dainty cardigan has a little old school glamour to it. We love that you can add a short or long sleeved t-shirt or a shirt under it depending on how cold it is. The best part of this is that your clothing becomes hard working and you need fewer classic pieces you can switch around as the mood takes you. 

Credit: Cotton Traders.

Fair Isle Turtleneck Jumper

As autumn turns to winter we are going to need something a little more heavy duty! This tactile, thick, cosy turtleneck will banish any chills whether you're working from home or off out with friends. 

Who doesn't love a Nordic-inspired Fair Isle knit? Such a classic design and with contrasting solid trims around the neckline it looks modern enough for a dressier occasion. 

For us this is a lovely Christmas day jumper, easy to wear and can be paired with jeans, skirts and cute ankle boots to create some visual interest. 

This beautiful item is available in Dusky Blue, Bright Plum and Cream. 


Credit: Cotton Traders.

Chenille Jumper

Wrapping up is this final crewneck sweater, one of those chunky knits which has beautiful feminine looks and is the perfect transitional piece. 

It works well for getting out and meeting with family or friends. It can be teamed with a cord skirt and long knee boot combination, it also seems a genius idea for Christmas markets with mulled wine. 

We feel it's quite a grownup item, with a classic flecked yarn, three quarter length sleeves and the shape-saving rib to the round neck, hem and cuffs. 

Exceptionally soft and comfortable with a relaxed but classy fit for colder weather. Available in cream, navy or our favourite sea green. 

Credit: Cotton Traders.

Pull-On Stretch Cord Midi Skirt

Lastly here's an example of what you can wear with these gorgeous sweaters. At this time of year grab your favourite dress or skirt and team with one of these jumpers. 

This warm but elegant cord skirt can be paired with a shirt or top and a snuggly knit to make all your wardrobe staples last through the year. 

With cotton-rich cord and stretch fabric, the pull-on aspect with an elasticated back is cleverly adapted for comfort and is so flattering. The button through style are mock so there's no worry about gaping when you sit down! 

The belt loop detail and pockets make the item for us. This is a piece for your fall wardrobe which you will wear time and again. 

We hope this guide to styling your knitwear in autumn helps you use your new jumpers in a variety of ways and gives you plenty of outfit ideas.

The main thing is to feel good this Winter in your cosy attire! Now you know that a simple dress and a long sleeve knit can make the cooler months both fashionable and toasty!