The perfect black jumper...

[Lostmystyle]

I have recently returned to work from maternity leave and really struggling with my sense of style - knowing what suits my body shape and what I want to wear now mid 30s in an office where many are younger.

In the winter I used to love putting a jumper over summer skirts and dresses and wearing them with tights and boots.

However I am currently really struggling to find a jumper that would work for this. Ideally I am looking for:

• a black jumper
• Not too fitted but not massively oversized. Would like some shape to it
• Something I could tuck into a skirt or wear loose over the top
• would prefer under £50

I thought it would be simple but can't find anything suitable!

Normally shop for work in M&S, Whistles, Hush

That looks like a really useful jumper @RogueFemale and comfortable, I think I'm going to get a couple, thank you for linking.

Another Uniqlo merino recommendation. I've had one of mine for over 10 years and it's still in great nick. Importantly, for me, they are not in any way itchy (I can't wear itchy wool at all - so I can't wear, e.g. their lambswool sweaters).

I wear thin thermal vests under them (Uniqlo again - the Heattech ones) when it's colder.

Sizing - I'm a 10 usually, and I wear a medium, I think. But could get away with a small.

I’m a big fan of Zara fur lightweight black jumpers. https://www.zara.com/gb/en/share/-p03519123.html?v1=309258602&utm_campaign=productShare&utm_medium=mobile_sharing_iOS&utm_source=red_social_movil

I bought a couple of their 100% EXTRA FINE MERINO TURTLENECK JUMPERS three years ago, in black and charcoal grey (no longer available) and I've lived in them during winter and cold springs:

https://www.uniqlo.com/uk/en/product/100pct-extra-fine-merino-turtleneck-jumper-461064.html

I hang them on a hanger between wears; they are described as machine washable but I wash mine by hand in liquid detergent, don't use fabric softener and put them in an old pillow case with safety pins to spin them on the wool cycle spin, then dry them on a hanger. They've kept their shape and are warm, light, will layer under loose shirts, cardigans, jackets etc. I can get a tee shirt or a vest under mine. I don't wear skirts but if I did they would tuck into a skirt. I am very short and find the arms a little long, but the cuffs will stay turned back. Not tried the M & S ones. The colour range in the Uniqlo turtle necks is currently limited but they also do a ribbed version, V-neck and crew neck in additional colours.

I'm another fan of M&S merino but came on to recommend the (currently half price) cashmere jumper from La Redoute https://lr.app.link/kVp8JdJN6Db - fitted, lightweight, super soft and at this price, a real bargain.

I have some and they are fine in a quick cool wash, as almost all handwash stuff is. Soak for a bit first if it’s a bit stained.

@theduchessofspork thank you! I’m going to order it and will probably chance a gentle machine wash .… if my cashmere survives why not this?!

Ladies, any advice re Uniqlo sizing? I’m a 8/10, always a small yet the Uniqlo size checker says a medium.

Cheers!