You know that feeling when a trend becomes ubiquitous and every magazine and Instagram influencer is trying to convince you to buy into it and you are totally on board and happy to oblige and like “yes, yes, I agree, no need to sell it to me any more” but you just cannot find the fucking thing anywhere?

That’s what happened with me and polonecks. It’s a trend that has been around for a while already, in different forms: huge chunky knits with generous collars; white turtlenecks – preferably in cashmere – for your seventies-inspired winter whites; sporty striped knits with a high neck and a zipper. But most importantly, there is the rollneck as a layering piece. I call it “an enabler” – an item that may or may not be fashionable on its own, but is necessary for making a look work. A t-shirt under a slip dress or camisole is probably the best example: it’s just a t-shirt, but you need it for that specific look.

So I was looking for a good rollneck as the winter version of that t-shirt, if you will. To wear it under dresses (the best option I’ve found for instantly making dresses appear more modern), other knits, blazers, t-shirts, everything. But all the versions I managed to find were either too chunky for layering or bad quality or too wide or too short or way too expensive. I mean, how hard can it be? And how come it’s a “key piece for the season” if no-one seems to be making it?

My frustration finally subsided last weekend when I stopped by the COS store in Antwerp and found exactly what I’ve been looking for. Their rollneck wool top is very fine, almost slightly transparent and fits close to the body. It’s also long enough for people like me and despite the softness, holds its shape quite well. In short, it’s exactly what you need to wear under your velvet tea dress this December and if you want, can be worn alone as well (with a very smooth bra).

The only problem is it doesn’t come in white, the key colour of this winter (it’s a key piece, but not KEY key!). So the search continues.