IF you buy one thing this spring make it a sweatshirt.

Sportswear has captured the imaginations of both luxury designers and the high street - and now there's a sweat for every occasion.

The look was propelled into the mainstream when former Vogue editor Carine Roitfeld wore a Givenchy sweatshirt with a floor-length sheer polka dot skirt at last year's Met Ball.

Since then catwalks and brands have embraced the sweat, turning it into a fashion phenomenon.

One of the best ways to wear this look is to dress it up with a pencil or A-line skirt.

Fashion editors and street style stars wore the sweat layered over a shirt with a pretty skirt and chunky heels - a look that can be worn in the office.

To make it work for a night out opt for luxury fabrics or details, such as lace. It is the ultimate in pared-back chic worn with dewy skin and bright lipstick.

But you can also keep the sweatshirt sporty - and make a strong statement by picking one with a slogan. Just team it with boyfriend jeans and a pair of trainers.

When the summer months come, a sweatshirt can replace your cardigan - just throw it on when there's a chill or the sun goes down.

And you'll get plenty of wear given that sweats were all over the autumn/ winter catwalks, so pick one that you'll wear over and over again.