Knitwear is a crucial building block in every wardrobe, whatever your age, gender or style. People have been wearing knits for years – the V&A museum has examples from the 12th century – and we’ll continue to do so because knits are practical. Not only do they keep us warm, but there’s also something very comforting about a good jumper. They are always needed. That’s why I’m excited to be looking at knits with fresh eyes this month.

I’m a minimal dresser at heart, and while I like colour, it is never my first choice. Yet somehow, last week, I found myself the proud owner of not one but two brightly coloured jumpers. A pink cashmere crew neck from Uniqlo’s recent collaboration with Anya Hindmarch (now sold out, sadly, but I have found an ideal alternative from Cos below) and a rusty orange Jigsaw funnel-neck that I love. I’ve already been wearing them both on repeat.

Bright-coloured knitwear was exactly what my wardrobe needed to bring it into winter, and I think this jumper trend could also be an elegant alternative to a traditional Christmas jumper.

My new additions got me thinking about a knitwear wardrobe as something that can really help you get through winter in style. By knitwear wardrobe, I mean a careful edit of knits you love that all perform a different role. Ideally, this would include a sensible neutral cashmere piece that goes with everything, an of-the-moment cardigan, a slimline black roll-neck and, of course, some bright-coloured knitwear.

Just one crucial thing to remember: make sure you invest in a nifty fabric shaver. Nothing makes a knit look scruffy quicker than an uneven texture, and I find all good-quality knits bobble as the yarns work themselves loose. Mine is from Steamery, and I love it.

Read on for my edit of the three best bright knits to invest in now.

The stylish alternatives to a traditional Christmas jumper