Why wool isn't just for winter

Wool has a reputation problem. Somewhere along the way it became associated almost exclusively with Christmas gifts, firesides, and November afternoons — and whilst I understand why, it does this extraordinary fibre a real disservice.

The truth is that wool is one of the most temperature-regulating natural fibres in existence. It keeps you warm when it's cold, yes — but it also breathes in a way that synthetic fabrics simply cannot. The best proof of this? Activewear brands are now turning to merino wool for performance layers. If it works during a run, it works in April.

The science (in plain English)

Cashmere comes from the undercoat of cashmere goats, which live in some of the most temperature-extreme environments on earth — from blistering summers to bitter winters. The fibre has evolved to do exactly what their climate demands: insulate without trapping heat. The hollow structure of each fibre means it traps air close to the body for warmth, but allows moisture to wick away rather than build up. On a cool spring morning or an air-conditioned summer evening, that translates to comfort that cotton or polyester genuinely cannot replicate.

A similar logic applies to alpaca, which we use in a number of our Porridge styles. Like cashmere, alpaca is a hollow fibre — it regulates temperature rather than simply insulating, which makes it far more versatile across the seasons than its cosy reputation suggests. It's also naturally hypoallergenic, with a softness that rivals cashmere at a slightly more accessible price point.

The case for colour — especially now

Spring is when I think colour really earns its place in a knitwear wardrobe. Our Peonie Pink and Chelsea Blue are two shades I return to constantly at this time of year — not because they're seasonal novelties, but because they genuinely lift an outfit in the way that a neutral simply cannot.

Peonie Pink worn with wide-leg cream trousers or a midi skirt is one of those combinations that feels both considered and effortless — the kind of thing people notice without quite knowing why. Chelsea Blue has that quality too: it's a shade that works with denim, with navy, with white linen.

How I wear wool through spring and summer

I'll be honest — I wear wool, alpaca, and cashmere almost every day, regardless of the season. In spring, my Julia Alpaca Tank in inky blue is my go-to layer over a crisp white shirt. It's relaxed enough to feel effortless but considered enough to wear to lunch or a meeting. In summer, our lightweight Gerry Cardigan in White comes out for cooler London evenings — the kind of evenings that start warm and turn quickly once the sun goes in.

The pieces I reach for most in the warmer months tend to be the lighter-weight styles in the brighter shades. It's a different relationship with the garment — less about warmth, more about polish, ease, and a bit of joy.

The investment case

Fast fashion has conditioned us to think seasonally — to buy pieces for a few months, then move on. Wool works against that logic entirely. A well-made cashmere or alpaca piece, cared for properly, will genuinely last decades (I still wear my Grannys!). The cost-per-wear calculation looks very different when you're dividing by ten years rather than three months.

At Porridge, every  piece is made from Grade A fibres — the longest, finest quality. That's not just a marketing claim. It's the reason I chose this grade when I started the brand, and it's the reason our customers come back.

If you've been saving your Porridge pieces for October, I'd encourage you to get them out now — especially the colour. You might be surprised how naturally they slot into your spring wardrobe, and how much better you feel in it.