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Fashion
Want to stay warm without adding bulk to your outfits? These 10 lightweight layering tops and knits are the answer
3 months ago
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4 min read
Winter is all about keeping cosy and these lightweight tops are here to help you beat the chill.
The cooler months call for layers, layers and more layers. And considering we can’t all just stay at home swaddled in blankets (sad face), we have to be clever when it comes to our outfits. While thermals are an obvious choice when it comes to basics (we highly recommend M&S and Uniqlo), it’s the layers you put on top that may take some more thought. If you’re a bit bored of rotating the same big cosy jumpers day in and day out, then you’ll want to know about the lightweight tops and knits that can be just as warm – with the help of some clever styling tips and trickery, that is.
Whether it’s a thin roll neck in cosy cashmere or merino wool, or a knit vest or cardigan that you can layer over shirts and long sleeve tops for now and on their own come spring, there are so many options. And while we’ll never not love a big jumper as an easy win on those “I have nothing to wear” days, these alternatives are ideal to invest in as trans-seasonal pieces that’ll stay in your wardrobe for the upcoming spring season, too.
Keep scrolling to see the lightweight layers that’ll keep you so warm without adding bulk to your winter looks – you’re welcome!
Shop best lightweight layering tops and knitwear
Next leopard long sleeve ribbed roll neck top
Trust us when we tell you, this top is about to be the base to so many great outfits. Pop it on underneath a shirt, layer under a wool blazer or you can even add a round-neck jumper over the top for a cosy look that’ll see you through winter – and it’s under £16, in the print of the season! Tick, tick.
Uniqlo Heattech extra warm cashmere blend crew neck T-shirt
This isn’t just any ordinary long-sleeved top – it’s a Uniqlo Heattech top, which makes it one of the cosiest around. Don’t be fooled by the thin material, the cosy cashmere blend and Heattech technology within it will keep you so warm, without adding bulk to your outfits.
Shop Uniqlo Heattech extra warm cashmere blend crew neck T-shirt, £19.90
Cos merino wool turtleneck top
How gorgeous is this soft green shade? And see how well it goes with chocolate brown – this is definitely one of the key colour combos to copy right now. And the best part about this top is that it’s made from merino wool, meaning it’ll be so warm even though it’s thin.
Mango ribbed wool-blend top
While some vest tops are made from a chunky knit that can add bulk, this ribbed version is a lot lighter and easier to layer over shirts (as seen above), roll neck tops or even other knits. You’ll definitely wear it sans layers for spring, too.
Asos Curve crew neck cardigan
If you invested in all things butter yellow last year, rest assured it’s still one of the key colours for 2025. If you didn’t, then this uplifting knit from Asos Curve may be on your new-season wishlist – easy to layer over a T-shirt, roll neck or shirt for a preppy vibe, it’s a trans-seasonal piece that you’ll end up styling so many ways.
Klayd long sleeve top
If you invest in great basics, they’ll last you for so many years to come. And Klayd is a go-to destination for some of the best basics around. Seamless and sleek, this brown long-sleeved top can be a base layer underneath your favourite knits, shirts and outerwear. Or just a welcomed addition to your loungewear collection.
Jigsaw stripe long sleeve tee
No wardrobe is complete without a timeless Breton T-shirt, and at this time of year, it’s all about long-sleeved iterations that’ll keep your arms warm. Add a thermal cami top underneath and you could get away with wearing this on its own with wide-leg trousers, or simply use as a fun layer beneath a knit vest.
Reformation Jadey cashmere oversized V-neck sweater
Cashmere is well known for being a soft and warm knit to invest in, unlike some wool materials that can be too thick. This V-neck jumper from Reformation is ideal for layering over shirts (as seen here), underneath jackets or even over dresses. Size up if you want it to look a bit slouchy.
Shop Reformation Jadey cashmere oversized V-neck sweater, £298
Damson Madder Remy rugby shirt
Rugby-style polo shirts are a mini trend right now, and they’re such a fun way to play around with layering for winter. Try leaving the buttons undone and add a high-neck top underneath in a contrasting colour or print.
& Other Stories sheer top
A ‘nice top and jeans’ look will never fail to look good, so it’s always worth copying. For the cooler months, add a V-neck cardigan over the top that’ll still show off this fun print underneath.
Images: courtesy of brands
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