A short sweater dress worked in a cable knit that runs unbroken from the turtleneck to the hem. The cables are the reason it holds a clean shape on the body rather than draping shapelessly, and the knit is substantial enough that the dress can be the whole outfit on a cold day instead of needing something underneath it. The collar rolls over on itself and stays standing. It is warm without being bulky.

It sits close through the waist and hip and stops above the knee, with a short split at the side seam so the hem moves when you walk instead of pulling. Ribbed cuffs and a ribbed hem band hold those edges in place. It looks finished with tall boots and bare legs, and it takes tights and a long coat once the weather turns properly cold. The knit keeps its shape between wears.

• Fabric: cable knit worked through the body and sleeves
• Neck: fold-over turtleneck collar that stands on its own
• Sleeves: long with ribbed cuffs
• Hem: ribbed band with a side split above the knee
• Fit: close through the waist and hip stopping above the knee