Women's roll-neck jumper: how to wear it

The women's roll-neck jumper is one of those pieces you rediscover every winter with the same pleasure. It warms, it structures, it elevates a simple outfit without the slightest effort. Fine or chunky, fitted or loose, it slips under a blazer as easily as under a puffer jacket, and goes with weekend jeans as well as an evening skirt. You just need to know how to choose it and what to pair it with so that it really flatters your figure.

Here are our tips for wearing a roll neck elegantly, from the office to evenings out, along with a few outfit ideas that are easy to recreate.

Women's roll-neck jumper: choosing the right style

Not all roll necks are worn the same way. Before thinking about outfits, it helps to know which type of style suits your needs.

The fine roll neck, the versatile base

In a fine, close-fitting knit, the roll neck becomes a true base layer. It slips easily under a jacket, a sleeveless dress, an open shirt or a cardigan. It's the most versatile style: it doesn't add bulk and lets the piece worn over it take centre stage.

The chunky roll neck, the statement piece

In a more generous, ribbed or cable knit, the roll neck is worn on its own and becomes the focus of the outfit. It adds texture and an instant cosy feeling. It goes with sleeker bottoms, such as straight trousers, skinny jeans or a flowing skirt, to balance its volume.

The funnel neck and the high neck

If a folded roll neck feels too covering, the funnel neck or the high neck are lovely alternatives. They protect from the cold while leaving the neck and face a little more open. They are particularly suited to women with a short neck or who don't like the feeling of a snug collar.

The rules of balance to know

The roll neck draws the eye towards the face and lengthens the upper body. To get the most out of it, a few principles of balance are all you need.

• Fitted on top, loose below: a fine roll neck with wide-leg trousers or a flared skirt creates a harmonious silhouette.
• Loose on top, sleek below: a chunky roll neck is ideally paired with straight-leg jeans, cigarette trousers or a pencil skirt.
• Define the waist: tuck the jumper into your trousers or add a belt to define the silhouette.
• Open up the face: hair worn up, visible earrings or a long necklace worn over the top bring light close to the face.

How to wear a roll neck to the office

The roll neck is a valuable ally for workwear. It is a great alternative to a shirt when it's cold, while keeping a polished look.

Under a blazer

This is the most elegant combination. A fine black, ecru or grey roll neck under a structured blazer creates a modern, sophisticated silhouette. With trousers that match the blazer, you get a softer suit than with a shirt; with raw denim jeans, the look becomes more relaxed.

With tailored trousers

A roll neck tucked into pleated high-waisted trousers, a thin belt and loafers: the outfit is simple, comfortable and very chic. Go tone on tone (camel and beige, light grey and charcoal) for a clean look.

Under a pinafore or sleeveless dress

Extend the season of your dresses by slipping a fine roll neck underneath. With opaque tights and ankle boots, the outfit becomes perfectly suited to winter.

How to wear a roll neck at the weekend

The roll neck can also be more casual, for quiet days as well as trips into town.

• With jeans: a chunky ribbed roll neck, straight-leg jeans and white trainers. Add a parka or a puffer jacket to head out.
• Layered: a fine roll neck under a sweatshirt or crew-neck jumper, with the collar peeking out slightly. The effect is contemporary and very warm.
• With an overshirt: worn open over a roll neck, it adds a more graphic touch to a simple outfit.

How to wear a roll neck in the evening

The roll neck isn't just for daytime. Paired well, it becomes a refined piece for dinners and evenings out.

• With a satin skirt: a fine black roll neck tucked into a flowing midi skirt creates an elegant contrast between knit and shine.
• With wide-leg trousers: in an all-black or all-cream look, the outfit is understated and very dressy. Add gold jewellery and court shoes or heeled ankle boots.
• Under a long coat: a roll neck, flowing trousers and a coat worn open create a very elegant vertical line.

The accessories that enhance the roll neck

Because it covers the neck, the roll neck highlights everything around the face. Gold earrings or hoops add light. A long necklace worn over the knit creates a vertical line that lengthens the upper body. Finally, a thin belt defines the waist when the jumper is worn with a skirt or high-waisted trousers. There's no need to overdo it: a single well-chosen accessory is often enough to finish the outfit.

Colours that are easy to pair

A neutral roll neck is the basis of countless outfits. Black is timeless and goes with everything. Ecru and cream brighten the face and soften dark outfits. Marl grey adds an urban note, camel and chocolate a gentle warmth.

To give your wardrobe character, also dare a deeper colour: burgundy, fir green, midnight blue or plum. Worn with denim, grey or beige, it livens up the silhouette without overloading it.

Which roll neck for your body shape?

The roll neck suits every figure, as long as you choose the right version.

• Short neck: opt for a fine roll neck, a funnel neck or a high neck, and open up the face by wearing your hair up.
• Fuller bust: a fine, soft knit is more flattering than a chunky one. A long necklace or an open jacket creates a vertical line.
• Petite figure: every thickness suits you; a short chunky knit paired with high-waisted trousers works particularly well.
• Curvy hips: tuck a fitted roll neck into straight trousers or a flared skirt to balance the proportions.

Caring for your roll neck

To help your knit keep its shape and softness, follow the instructions on the label. As a general rule, a gentle wash at a low temperature or by hand, and drying flat, help preserve the collar and sleeves. Store your jumpers folded rather than hung, and air them between wears rather than washing them every time.

A piece to keep all winter

Fine under a blazer, chunky with jeans or chic with a satin skirt, the roll neck adapts to all your days. Choose one or two in shades you love, and you'll have the basis of a winter wardrobe that is warm, elegant and easy to live with.

Discover our selection of women's roll necks, our full range of jumpers and knitwear and our blazers to put your outfits together. Delivery is free, in 10 to 13 working days.