The perils of dressing for the British climate have boggled women - as well as some men - throughout the ages. After all, the woollens don't just come out in autumn and winter: they stick around in spring and often even into summer months. And when chunky knits aren't in favour on the catwalk, it can cause problems for high street shoppers and designer gurus alike. But this year - to the relief of every woman from Cardiff to Aberdeen - women's designer knitwear looks to be a firm favourite. So what can we expect from knitwear fashion in the year to come?



It's only January and already the high street is brimming with cardigans, knitted dresses and jumpers in every corner. Comfy woolly cardigans can be found in a variety of colours and styles to flatter every shape and size. For instance, if you're a large-busted woman who has always found it difficult to find cardigans to suit, it's time to rejoice! For V-necks and plunging scoop necks - guaranteed to compliment your heavy top half - feature prominently in this year's knitted fashions. Choose a V-neck cardigan in a dark, block colour with a tie around the narrower part of your waist and you could also draw attention away from a bulging tummy.

But designer knitwear this season isn't just about V-necks; those less well-endowed can also take advantage of close-necked cardigans with ruffle details or crew necks, which are sure to bestow more oomph on your chest. Moreover, choosing a close-necked cardigan in stripes or subtle floral patterns may also turn the eye away from any saggy bits on your upper body that you'd rather people ignored!

The close-necked, ruffle look is also being imitated in this year's knitted dresses, which are certain to keep you warm, snug and looking trendy all day. Look for knitted dresses in soft yet mature colours, like lavender or chalk, as well as good old black and chocolate.

However, one the most desirable items of in 2008 is surely the jumper. Transforming jumpers from the staple wardrobe piece of a chilly winter to an article of fashion glory is possibly the greatest feat of the emerging knitwear trend. Jumpers are long and V-necked - great for showing off the chest and hiding the hips - or long and crew-necked with capped sleeves. Either style can be worn simply with jeans for an effortlessly classy daytime look. What's more, we're even seeing some knitted jumpers with billowing cape sleeves. These are ideal for elegant evening wear at a casual dinner or cocktail party when worn with tailored trousers (or shorts if you're brave) and heels.

So, overall, the verdict for knitted jumpers in 2008 is wear them long and wear them proud! And if you're blessed with a particularly long pair of legs - and the weather picks up - you might even be able to ditch the trousers altogether.