This Spanish knitwear brand has answered my layering qualms

By Niamh ODonoghue
28th Oct 2020

The perfect knitwear for when you come so close to mastering the art of layering, only to then need to get your arms into a coat.

I have come incredibly close to mastering the art of layering. I say close because every year I struggle to find the right kind of knitwear to scratch my layering itch. I’ve made an entrance in a cosy XXL cardi, but then struggle to fit my coat on. A large cardi is great over a pair of straight-cut jeans and updated ankle boots, but the draft that comes with it isn’t welcoming (unless it’s fitted or you secure it with an equally large belt). A cropped cardigan has all the right ingredients to be the perfect knitwear choice if it weren’t for the material dramatically stopping before hitting the top of your jeans. Not everyone is partial to a navel showdown mid-autumn.

But I think I’ve found a solution. Moreover, the solution came to me through a series of worm-hole dives on Instagram (thank you, Discovery tool). Babaà knitwear comes from Spain and is made by local farmers using 100% natural materials. The online boutique, which stocks menswear, womenswear and childrenswear, specialises in knitwear ranging from coats and cardigans to jumpers, dresses and pieces made from organic linen. This deep ochre, pure-boiled wool cardigan with organic bone buttons, below, is screaming to be worn with corduroy jeans for casual Friday and sequins for party season. Doesn’t it look soft to touch, even from your phone? Go ahead, have a feel.

No19 mini ochre cardigan, €230 at babaa.es

Let’s talk about the shape: it’s not cropped nor is it long. It’s boxy in shape so it’s flattering whether you’re tall and slim, wide up top or apple-bottomed. The drop shoulder gives the appearance of a smaller frame and really up’s the comfy-and-cosy scale. And if mustard isn’t a colour you’re friends with, this style comes in emerald, oak, blue, navy and ruby, too. Leave the buttons undone and use a high-waisted belt to give the box shape a more dramatic appearance. What’s more, the sleeve length is ever-s0-slightly cropped, making your sleeve choice all the more exhilarating.

No17 rosé, €220 at babaa.es

And for days when I want to throw on something warm but still feel dressed, I’m choosing this stunning rosé polo-neck jumper. It’s extra oversized and cosy and is dyed and spun by Babaà’s artisan partners. It’s made using a very resistant and classic yarn and is a perfect example of timeless knitwear piece. Half the beauty lies in how effortless and shapeless it is: it doesn’t need frills or sirens to make a statement. This is easy-to-wear knitwear for grown-ups.

Featured image: Babaà knitwear

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