Knitwear might feel like more of a staple in the winter months but this season, the fashion world has practically pulled the wool over our eyes.

From oversized jumpers to mini skirts, knitwear is the hottest – and certainly the snuggest – trend right now. Even novelty jumpers have enjoyed something of a style renaissance with reindeers, snowmen and penguins emblazoned all over cheery knits.

So whether you prefer handmade-style or couture Cashmere, it’s time to throw out those tired, moth-eaten pieces and join the new style knitting club. Show off your knit-wit potential and go wild for woollies.

Boyfriend borrower

With the festive bulge beckoning, here’s one knitwear look you won’t want to miss.

Ticking the box for the androgynous and minimalist trends, an oversized knit is not only ideal for layering, but it also disguises unwanted Santa bellies too.

Try a sweater or long-line cardigan in a size that looks like you’ve strayed into your other half’s side of the wardrobe. You could even experiment by delving into the menswear departments for the authentic option.

The trick with boy-shaped knits is to keep your bottom half fitted, so leggings, skinny jeans or skirt with tights. Nobody wants to look like they’re dressed head-to-toe in a giant’s clothing.

Bright beauty

The perfect antidote to dark winter nights, a knit so bright you’ll practically glow in the dark is a must.

Fashioned from this season’s block colour trend, a jewel-hued jumper will have you dazzling through the festive season. Not just reserved for eveningwear, pick out a luxurious knit in an opulent shade of amethyst, ruby, sapphire or emerald.

For a more outgoing option, try a sunny citrus shade, like orange, lime or yellow, that will ease you right through to spring. These neon-esque brights will really pop against a drab winter wardrobe.

Heritage hunt

Grab your tweeds and plaids, a cosy countryside knit is the perfect accompaniment to the heritage trend.

Made for the classic dresser who wants a knit that will last, look for chunky cable-knit numbers in timeless neutral hues of camel, cream or navy.

If you really want to embrace the quintessential British look, try a plaid pullover or argyle knit – no golf clubs necessary.

Make your heritage knit the main fashion focus by paring down the rest of your ensemble with a smart black skirt or tailored trousers.

Forties finds

If a baggy jumper somehow feels a little too casual, even trussed up with pearls, go back in time to this season’s Forties vibe.

The decade was big news on the runways for winter and the retro look is set to continue for next spring too.

Go for a ready-made Forties knit via a classic matching twin set – elegance personified. And create your own vintage appeal by emphasising the waist with a fitted long-line button-up cardigan and skinny belt. A body-skimming pencil skirt will really add the Forties finishing touch.

Layering love

Those head over heels with all things woolly can go mad with natty knit maximalism.

Knitwear may have traditionally been confined to jumpers, cardigans and scarves but now there’s a whole style spectrum on offer: coats, dresses, chunky tights, knitted skirts, arm warmers, leg warmers and even winter boots complete with cosy cuffs.

For the ultimate in fashion kudos, layer them all up at the same time for a top-to-toe knit takeover. Just ensure you mix up different colours and wool types for the most fashionable knit-wit look.

Novelty knits

Once the jovial piece reserved for Christmas time only, the novelty jumper has come into its own this winter.

A quick scan of the high street pullover rails and you’ll find all manner of festive cuties and critters putting the fun back into fashion.

The key to ensuring it looks trendy – not tragic – is styling it up with something edgy and unexpected.

Steer clear of anything too girly on your bottom half – give your fluffy favourite some street cred with some rock-chick leggings or a leather skirt, so you have a real contrast of textures.

Get the look

Katy Perry works her winter whites with candyfloss pink hair. Dazzle in a homage to her designer studded dress with Goddiva’s studded shift, £38, available for pre-order now (www.goddiva.co.uk).

Buy it now

Planning a good deed for 2012? Start with a sustainability drive wearing Marks & Spencer’s Autograph coat, made almost entirely from recycled cashmere and wool. The luxury trench is £149, available in selected stores and online at www.marksandspencer.com now.

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