It may not look sensational online or sound like a dream purchase, but Arket’s fitted brown cardigan is the best thing I’ve bought in a long, long time. Our aim for this franchise—1 Perfect Item Worn 5 Ways—is to pinpoint the everlasting pieces our wardrobes are all the better for having. These buys may not be the most whizzy or spectacularly trend-smashing, but they are reliable, enjoyable and worthwhile parting some cash for. Once upon a time the rule was that you should try a new item (tags on!) with three outfits at home—if it worked, it was allowed to stay. But in our fast-paced times I would say it’s important to give these purchases a spin under a tougher regime, and if they work effortlessly in a total of five looks, then I’d say you’re onto a real winner.
It’s what I’ve found since buying this brilliant-if-quite-basic cardigan from Arket a month or so ago. The mink-brown colour looks expensive, the waist-nipping fit is a good match for my more hourglass figure, and the fact that it has a little exaggerated sleeve along with the idea of wearing it unbuttoned at the top adds some extra design credentials. It can be casual or smart, prim or sassy—and it’s a light-enough fabric to be useful well into a British summer.
If you’re part of the cardigan club and wanting some inspiration on different ways to wear your knit, then I hope the below ensembles and associated shopping provides some food for thought!
