My Uniqlo Secrets Revealed
Hands up if you remember going overseas and marvelling at the multi-level Uniqlo stores filled with knits, denim and loungewear that we just couldn't get our hands on locally in Australia? I loved them, especially the stores in New York which seemed particularly bountiful and inspiring.
Luckily we have access to Uniqlo stores now, if not in person then online, and there is a certain art to shopping their best-of which I’m continually learning. As much as their renowned knits, particularly cashmere, get all the attention, I’m actually a huge advocate of other unlikely heroes in store that I seem to shop for again and again. It got me thinking that perhaps I should share my secrets with you, as it’s often these wardrobe basics that are hardest to find. Here, my personal and tried and tested swear-by Uniqlo buys that I rely on each year for not only myself, but my whole family.
The Unisex Sweatshirt
You’ll find this guy in the men’s section and let me tell you, it’s the best all-cotton slouchy-but-not-sloppy classic sweatshirt you’ll ever find. I buy the men’s size XS and it’s a perfect fit over leggings or worn with jeans. A true failsafe buy!
2. Knitwear
I know it’s all about the cashmere knits, and yes they are lovely, but my preference is the lambswool crewneck sweater. It’s slightly less contoured which makes it seem more modern, and I like the selection of colours. As always with Uniqlo, I also stock up on the men's knits too as they aren’t oversized and usually fit a little better. If you’re after a nice black knit for evening (worn with skirts, pants or jeans) the men’s merino crew neck knit is foolproof.
3. Outerwear
Ok, so tread carefully here. Yes they have an abundance of puffer jackets which are warm and comfortable and awesome, but some look better than others. My preference would be the thicker stitching-ones (do you like how technical that sounds?), as they are slightly boxier and more modern, or the current designer collaborations on offer. I also love their unisex fleece style which seems like a perfect soccer-mom option too.
4. Random Picks (and Kidswear!) You Need To Know
I don’t know why more people don’t discuss the perfect white tees at Uniqlo. Their Supima Cotton Crew-Neck is pretty close to a 10 in fabric and fit, the only possible downside might be the length, which works on me as I’m petite but may not work so well on taller women.
Also don’t snooze on their sleepwear (boom!) - I use their loungewear sets as winter pyjamas and they are super cosy and well-lasting. Of course, I give all of their HeatTech items a big fat must-buy, particularly the kids pieces that work so well under school and sports uniforms in the colder months. Long sleeve white tops under school shirts, and black leggings under sports’ outfits give peace of mind when it’s freezing outside and your little ones refuse to wear a jacket. Speaking of undergarments, if you’re a mum to girls you know all too well that underwear that doesn’t ride up is near impossible to find, but the Uniqlo Girls briefs are literally perfect in every way - I won’t stop buying them. They offer full coverage, don’t budge and are the loveliest cotton.
Lastly, the AIRism mesh hoodies are exactly what you need for walks and runs outdoors. They’re super lightweight, offer protection to wind and sun and come in multiple colours. I have one in black and my kids both each have one for afternoon activities.