This week, I’ve made the mistake (not once, but twice) of going out without a jumper on. Although my weather app is telling me it feels like it’s minus six degrees Celsius outside, and I can hear the wind whipping around my house (even though I’m very much inside), in my mind it’s spring, and that, alas, means ditching my go-to layers in favour of something thinner. However, going out without my trusty layers and a jumper was a very big mistake, as I found out halfway into my commute to the office, where I was standing on the platform in the bitter wind wishing I’d worn something more appropriate.

It wasn’t until I got to said office and saw practically everyone wearing a particular high street jumper that I realised I too needed this jumper – immediately. The knit in question is from Marks & Spencer’s Autograph range and is made from a cosy (although not too thick) alpaca and wool blend, with added stretch in the fabric for comfort. The Brushed Striped Jumper also is designed with a striking mix of purple and burgundy stripes – a combo that’s perfectly optimistic for this time of year.

When it comes to styling the striped knit, take cues from the Parisians, who more often than not rely on a Breton jumper to appear more put-together. For the current cooler climes, wear the jumper with a pair of leather trousers, chunky boots and a longline wool coat. Or, when the weather (eventually) decides to get warmer, team the jumper with a pleated mini skirt and knee-high boots.

Consider this the key takeaway: don’t underestimate the weather (or the weather app). The answer isn’t grabbing any old jumper on your way out, but choosing one you actually want to wear (and not just for practical reasons). So, without sounding like your mother, make sure to take a jumper next time you leave the house, and make it M&S’s Brushed Striped Jumper With Alpaca.

Gemma Lavers is a fashion commerce writer at Grazia, where she tracks down viral pieces and is as comfortable navigating the M&S new-in page as she is dissecting the latest celebrity look. When not writing, shopping or at Reformer Pilates (a cliché but she’s hooked), Gemma will likely be planning her next holiday (and what she’s going to wear). For a glimpse into said travels, outfit inspo and life as a journalist, follow her on Instagram.