Finding knitwear that works for both casual days and dressy nights is like hitting the fashion jackpot. Too often, sparkly pieces feel scratchy, over-the-top, or so delicate they can’t withstand regular wear—while plain jumpers lack that “something extra” for special occasions. That’s why I was instantly drawn to Apricot’s Sequin Arm Embellished Jumper in Black when I spotted it on their Irish website. Apricot has long been my go-to for affordable, wearable pieces that balance style and practicality, and at €49, this jumper felt like the perfect way to add a touch of glamour to my wardrobe without breaking the bank. After wearing it nonstop for five weeks—from weekday office meetings to weekend dinners, coffee dates to holiday parties—I can confidently say it’s one of the most versatile and beloved items in my closet. It’s not just a jumper; it’s a hardworking piece that seamlessly transitions from day to night, proving that sparkle and comfort don’t have to be mutually exclusive. Here’s my full breakdown of the shopping experience, product details, and why this black sequin jumper is a must-have for anyone who wants to elevate their everyday style.
First, let’s talk about the brand: Apricot. For years, Apricot has stood out in the fast-fashion landscape by prioritizing wearability over fleeting trends. They don’t churn out pieces that will feel outdated in six months; instead, they craft items that feel modern yet timeless—pieces you’ll reach for season after season. Their website, apricotonline.com/ie, is a joy to navigate: clean, clutter-free, and packed with all the information you need to make an informed purchase. Unlike some retailers that hide sizing charts or fabric details behind endless pop-ups, Apricot’s product page for the Sequin Arm Embellished Jumper puts everything front and center. From the fabric composition to the care instructions, there’s no guesswork involved—something that gives me confidence when shopping for delicate, embellished pieces online. Apricot’s commitment to transparency and quality is why I keep coming back, whether I’m buying a basic tee or a sparkly jumper like this one.
The shopping experience was seamless from start to finish. I stumbled across this jumper while browsing Apricot’s “Knitwear” section, drawn in by the promise of “soft and sparkly” fabric and the unique sequin arm detail. The product photos were incredibly helpful: there’s a full-length shot of the model (who’s 5’8.5” wearing an XS/UK 8) that gave me a clear sense of the fit and length, close-ups of the sequin embellishment and ribbed trims, and even a view of the crew neckline. I appreciated that Apricot listed every key detail upfront: fabric composition (main: 43% Viscose, 32% Polyamide, 25% Polyester; contrast: 100% Polyester), length (approx 60cm), fit (Regular), and care instructions. As someone who’s a UK 10 with a slim-to-average frame, I was a little unsure about sizing—would the regular fit be too baggy, or would it skim my figure nicely? The size guide, which included bust, waist, and hip measurements for each size, helped me decide on a Medium, and it turned out to be the perfect choice.
Adding the jumper to my cart was effortless, and checkout offered all the payment options I could want: credit card, PayPal, and Klarna for those who prefer to split the cost (a nice touch for budget-conscious shoppers). Shipping to my home in Dublin was free—always a bonus—and the jumper arrived in just two business days. It came in a simple, recyclable Apricot-branded plastic bag, which was practical and not overly wasteful, and inside, the jumper was wrapped in tissue paper to protect the sequins. There were no signs of damage or loose sequins—exactly what I’ve come to expect from Apricot’s reliable packaging. When I pulled it out of the bag, I was immediately struck by how soft it felt, even through the tissue paper.
When I tried on the jumper for the first time, I was hooked. The main fabric is incredibly soft and lightweight—nothing like the scratchy, stiff knit I’ve encountered in cheaper embellished jumpers. The blend of 43% Viscose, 32% Polyamide, and 25% Polyester is pure magic: the Viscose adds breathability and a luxurious drape, the Polyamide boosts durability and stretch, and the Polyester keeps the knit lightweight and wrinkle-resistant. It’s warm enough for cool Irish days (perfect for transitional weather or layering under coats in winter) but not so thick that you’ll overheat indoors. The black color is rich and true—no faded or grayish undertones—and it’s versatile enough to pair with almost everything in my wardrobe. Unlike bold colors that clash with outfits or feel limiting, black is timeless; I know I’ll be wearing this jumper for years to come without it going out of style.
The sequin arm embellishment is the star of the show. The sleeves are made of a sheer mesh fabric (100% Polyester) adorned with black and gold sequins, creating a subtle, eye-catching sparkle that’s just enough to make a statement without being overwhelming. I was worried the sequins might feel scratchy or heavy, but they’re surprisingly lightweight and smooth against my skin—no itching or irritation, even after wearing the jumper for eight hours straight. The sequins are securely attached, with no loose threads or missing pieces, and the mesh sleeve is stretchy enough to move with me (no restrictive feeling when I’m typing at work or hugging friends). The contrast between the soft, solid black body and the sparkly mesh sleeves is genius: it adds visual interest without making the jumper feel too “costume-y,” making it suitable for both casual and dressy occasions.
Let’s dive into the design details. The crew neckline is classic and flattering, framing the collarbone nicely without being too low or too high. It’s snug but not tight, so it feels comfortable all day long—no digging into my neck or slipping off my shoulders. The long sleeves have ribbed cuffs that fit perfectly around my wrists: they’re not too tight (so I can roll them up if I get warm) and not too loose (so they don’t slide down). The ribbed trims on the cuffs and hem add a subtle textured detail that ties the whole look together, and they help the jumper keep its shape wash after wash. The length (approx 60cm) is ideal: on my 5’6” frame, it hits just below my hips, which is flattering and practical (no worrying about it riding up or feeling too short). The regular fit is spot-on—roomy enough to layer over a thin long-sleeve top on colder days or wear on its own when the weather is mild, but not so baggy that it loses its shape. It skims over my torso and hips without clinging, creating a sleek, effortless silhouette that works for a range of body types.
One of the things I love most about this jumper is its versatility. It’s not just for one occasion; it works for almost everything. For work, I pair it with tailored trousers and loafers— the sequin sleeves add a subtle touch of glamour to my professional look, without being inappropriate for client meetings. For weekends, I throw it on with high-waisted jeans and ankle boots—casual, chic, and perfect for running errands or meeting friends for coffee. For a dressy evening out, I wear it with a midi skirt and strappy heels— the sequins shine under restaurant lights, and the black color keeps the look elegant and sophisticated. I even wore it to a holiday party with leather leggings and statement earrings, and it was the perfect balance of festive and stylish. The dotted pattern (from the sequins) is subtle enough to pair with printed bottoms (like a floral skirt or striped trousers) without clashing, making it one of the most versatile pieces in my wardrobe.
Care instructions are simple and manageable: 30-degree cold machine wash on a gentle cycle, do not bleach, do not tumble dry, do not iron, and do not dry clean. I was a little worried about washing a sequined jumper—would the sequins fall off or the mesh tear? But after washing it three times (in a laundry bag on a gentle cycle), it’s held up perfectly. The sequins are still securely attached, the fabric is just as soft, and the black color hasn’t faded. I lay it flat to dry, which takes a few hours, but it’s a small effort for a jumper that looks like new after each wash. Unlike some delicate embellished pieces that require expensive dry cleaning (which adds to the cost), this one is low-maintenance—another win for busy lifestyles.
Let’s talk about value for money. At €49, this jumper is an absolute steal. I’ve paid twice as much for similar sequined jumpers from other brands that were scratchy, ill-fitting, or lost their sequins after one wash. Apricot’s version is well-made, comfortable, and versatile—all for a price that’s accessible to most shoppers. When you consider how many times I’ve worn it (at least 12 times in five weeks), the cost per wear is just over €4—unbeatable for a piece that works for so many occasions. It’s the kind of item that feels like a luxury but doesn’t come with a luxury price tag, which is exactly what I look for in affordable fashion.
Apricot’s commitment to accessibility is another reason I love this brand. The Sequin Arm Embellished Jumper is available in sizes XS to XL, covering a range of body types, and the price point makes it easy for anyone to add a touch of glamour to their wardrobe. Unlike some brands that charge more for embellished pieces or trend-driven styles, Apricot keeps their prices consistent and reasonable without sacrificing quality. The fact that it’s available on their Irish website with free shipping is also a huge plus—no dealing with international fees or long delivery times.
Are there any downsides? The only minor complaint I have is that the mesh sleeves are a little sheer. If you’re worried about your bra showing, I recommend wearing a nude or black strapless bra (which is what I do), and it’s not an issue. Another small thing: the sequins can catch on delicate fabrics (like silk blouses or knit scarves), so I try to be careful when layering it. But honestly, these are tiny quibbles that don’t detract from the jumper’s overall excellence. The sheer sleeves are part of the design’s charm, and the sequin catch is a small trade-off for such a stylish piece.
Overall, my experience with Apricot’s Sequin Arm Embellished Jumper in Black has been nothing short of fantastic. From the seamless shopping experience on apricotonline.com/ie to the high-quality product itself, this jumper has exceeded my expectations in every way. It’s soft, stylish, versatile, and well-made—everything I want in a wardrobe staple. Whether you’re looking for something to wear to work, weekends, or special occasions, this jumper delivers.
Add to Bag:Sequin Arm Embellished Jumper
If you’re on the fence about buying it, here’s my advice: go for it. The black color is timeless, the sequin detail is elegant (not over-the-top), and the fit is flattering for most body types. At €49, it’s a low-risk purchase that you’ll wear again and again. Apricot has done an incredible job of creating a piece that feels intentional and well-crafted, designed for real life rather than just the runway. I’ve already recommended it to my sister, my best friend, and even my colleague—and all of them have bought it, raving about how much they love it.
In a world of fast fashion that’s full of disposable pieces, Apricot’s Sequin Arm Embellished Jumper is a breath of fresh air. It’s a piece that feels like it was made to last, not just to be worn once. I can’t wait to wear it through autumn and winter, layering it with coats, blazers, and scarves, and I know it will still be a favorite next year. If you’re looking to add a touch of sparkle to your wardrobe without sacrificing comfort or versatility, this jumper is a must-have. Trust me—you won’t regret it.
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