Merlot, barolo, port. The fall season is when reds come into their own – both in your wine rack and your knitwear drawer. After all, a pop of red is one of our favorite styling tools, instantly adding richness and warmth to your look, particularly in the cooler months. And just as there is a red wine for you, so too is there a red knit – which one suits you best just depends on a few criteria. Here, we guide you into finding your grape of choice.

Does red suit everyone?

The short answer is, yes – there’s a red for everyone. The simplest way to find out which one suits you best is by choosing a few different shades and holding each up to your face to see how it makes you look. The red that’s best for you will make your skin and eyes look brighter. A simple rule of thumb is that those with cool undertones to their skin – pink or blue – will suit blue-based reds, like cherry, ruby and crimson. Those with warm undertones – peach and yellow – instead look best in brighter shades like coral, vermilion and poppy-red. 

Don’t forget to factor in your hair and eye-color too: those with high contrast features, such as dark hair and blue eyes, look great in darker, deeper reds, while those with low contrast (dark hair and dark eyes, for example) will suit softer shades. But that said, fashion rules were made for breaking, so take it with a pinch of salt and have fun with it. 

You’re a barolo if…

One of the most expensive and luxurious grapes in the world, Barolo has a vivid red colour, similar to garnet. It’s for you if you have warm undertones or high contrast features which can pull off the drama. For a high impact look, pair the High Neck Straight Sweater, with the Bias Full Length Skirt, or simply go for the Drop Waist Maxi Dress. For those who prefer suiting, there’s the Sharp Shoulder Blazer and matching Elongator Pants in Barolo stretch velvet. Keep things elevated with chunky gold accessories and of course, heels.

You’re a merlot if…

Merlot is a dark ruby color, with hints of magenta. It’s an all-rounder wine that most red-wine drinkers will like, an inoffensive tipple that sits lightly on the palette. Similarly, it’s a shade that suits most people, whether you’ve got warm or cool undertones, or low or high contrast features. Its dark hue makes it perfect as an alternative to black or brown for the office – whether that’s via the Fit and Flare dress, which can take you easily from desk to drinks, or the Sharp Shoulder Blazer worn either with jeans or the matching colored Wide Leg Pants. For evening, pair a merlot-hued top like the Fluid Evening Tank with wide-leg black pants, or opt for the Fit and Flare Maxi dress with a faux-fur knit and heels and lean into its undeniable gothic glamour.

You’re a port if… 

Port is the deepest red, with hints of purple or brown. An acquired taste, it can be incredibly sweet – unsurprisingly, as it’s a pudding wine served after dinner. Infinitely sophisticated, warm undertones look very glamorous in it because of its underlying hints of brown. Lean into its dark elegance by pairing a V-Neck Relaxed Sweater or Barely There Sweater with a leather skirt or pants, or darkest blue denim. If you’re wearing it in the evening, allow it to be the focal point of your look with a Fit and Flare Maxi Dress and all black accessories.