Question: what do Bella Hadid, Meghan Markle, Kendall Jenner and Rihanna all have in common? Well, there’s probably a few answers to that, but there’s no avoiding the fact that the noughties made a strong comeback this year, and with all of our favourite throwback looks (hello, low-slung jeans and butterfly motifs) we’ve also re-adopted some nostalgic pieces we didn’t see coming too, and celebs are also jumping on the bandwagon. As a millennial, I have mixed feelings about this renaissance, but I have also enjoyed how fashion brands have adapted the trends to feel more contemporary. A case in point: Off-the-shoulder knits. Once considered a trend I strongly associate with my teens (and not in a good way), if you take a look at current interpretations from designers such as Ulla Johnson and Chloé, there’s no denying that the bardot jumper can look pretty damn chic.
You might not have thought much of making the most of a décolletage-baring jumper, but this effortless knit toes the line between cosy-casual and effortless elegance, and when it comes to working 2023’s off-the-shoulder knit in a contemporary way, it all comes down to styling. Take a look at street style and you’ll see off-the-shoulder jumpers paired with tailored wide-leg trousers (preferably in a matching shade), to create a sleek ensemble, but I also appreciate the flirty finish that comes from a miniskirt and knee high-boots that shows a little skin (but not too much, it’s still winter after all). Looking for more outfit inspiration? French women have long adopted the Bardot neckline, usually with a slim-leg jean and ballet flats, but of course, you can always go full noughties with low-slung flares and a circle belt. Just kidding.
So if you’re in need of a little off-the-shoulder inspo, keep scrolling to see how the fashion crowd has been wearing their knits and to shop my edit of the very best shoulder-skimming jumpers to wear now. Did I mention they’re perfect for party season too?
Style Notes: There’s something nostalgic about this outfit, but it’s brought up-to-date with the minimalist colour palette.
Style Notes: Lisa Aiken makes a good case for head-to-toe black with this wintery look. So simple yet so chic.
Style Notes: Anouk Vye also adds a wide-leg trouser but choosing distressed denim shows how to dress the jumper down too. Your weekend outfit, sorted.
Style Notes: On the runway Calvin Luo managed to tick off four trends at once: off-the-shoulder jumpers, A-line skirts, corsages and knee-high boots. Pure perfection.
This whole outfit looks so expensive.
Just add a long skirt and a knee-high boot.
Black not your thing? This also comes in camel and teal.
Perfect with baggy jeans.
How to make an off-the-shoulder knit evening appropriate.
There’s Fair Isle knits too!
So snuggly, so chic.
Tuck into just about anything.
There’s just something about this colour and fabric combination.
Beware, this is already selling out fast.
Keep your eyes peeled, baby blue is about to be big in 2024.
Too cute.
Proof that 16Arlington don’t just make killer dresses.
Balletcore, eat your heart out.
If the front is a little too exposing, spin this around and wear it backwards.
