The fall equinox marks the official arrival of sweater weather. For anyone who enjoys clothes, there’s something both soothing and exciting about this tipping point in the year – a sense that after months of dressing to cope with heat, we can once again introduce textures, layers, rich colors and fabrics with substance.
Finally, we can get dressed again.
Lucky, then, that sweater season at ME+EM is a time of abundance – of vests and snoods, slinky evening cardigans, chunky cashmere sweaters, patchworked Fair Isles and bouclé teddy layering pieces.
Perhaps the most versatile pieces in the mix are the sweater vests. The Merino Cashmere Exposed Side Vest epitomizes our approach to dressing intelligently for everything the season holds.
This tabard-style vest slips over the head (and base layers), with a buttoned strap adding interest without bulk. From its capacity to stretch out less substantial summer pieces, to the architectural exposed sides, there are so many reasons this style is a hero of the season. Let’s not forget the detachable snood that means you can leave your scarf at home.
For a more delicate take on the sweater vest, there’s the Merino Cashmere Silk Lace Stitch V Neck Vest. Featuring intricate, geometric stitching that allows a glimpse through to your layering top (try the Statement Balloon Sleeve Layering Top), it adds textural interest with timeless appeal.
The Teddy Merino Bouclé Zip Vest, meanwhile, translates one of the most covetable textures from the world of interiors to your wardrobe. The high neckline and merino teddy fabric are sure to prove your elevated, wear-everywhere fall staple.
Sometimes, though, you’ll want to tap into knitwear’s slinkier side. For that, there’s the Recycled Cashmere Rib Evening Cardigan. Wear it slipping off a shoulder over a slip dress for cocktails, or with a few of the bottom buttons left undone to balance out the proportions of high-waisted pants for the workday.
Speaking of proportions: big knits can risk swamping the rest of an outfit. Not so with the Cashmere Chunky High Neck Relaxed Sweater. Its cloud-soft cashmere fabrication is natural, breathable and low-pilling. Deep cuffs can be rolled to above the wrist (a stylist’s favorite trick – the better to showcase watches and bracelets). And the side splits and slightly longer back hem keep the cut streamlined, but with coverage. In camel and navy, this is one to bundle up in, all the way to spring.
If it’s total, swaddling comfort you’re looking for, consider the Merino Cashmere Patchwork Fair Isle Sweater. In a supersoft cashmere jacquard with chunky ribbed trims, this style is luxurious, substantial, and makes a statement even with jeans. (Like all our wool, the wool used in this sweater is non-mulesed – so you can feel as good about choosing to wear it as you do actually wearing it.)
After all, a big knit – the kind that precludes any need for a coat; the kind you don’t wear as much as enfold yourself into – offers warmth, comfort and coziness as the days get shorter. The right sweater should feel like an embrace. Lean into the hug, starting now.