Sweaters

Though I love sweaters and they can be a really easy way to stay warm and stylish, it isn't easy picking the right one. I've had a terribly itchy one I ordered online that was made from wool. To avoid the itch, try it on bare skin and see how it feels. Move around a bit. If you are buying online, go for very fine wool, such as Merino or Cashmere. Although these are expensive, you'd otherwise be throwing money away at something that's too itchy to wear! Beware of fake labels too.

I had a lovely one that I bought on clearance for only $6! But when I put it in the wash the body overstretched horizontally and the sleeves vertically. In the store, pull on the sweater and test its resistance. If it doesn't reasonably return to its shape after some test stretching, it might get ruined in the wash. I recommend washing sweaters together on a low spin, although they will take longer to dry this way. Also, sweaters that need to "dry flat" should be placed over a towel overnight and flipped over in the morning on a fresh towel. The weight of the wetness won't drag the sweater down and cause it to stretch.

While the cable-knit has always been the fall staple, here are a few creative spins on the classics:


Ombre:

I'm really digging the midnight blue. It takes a more sophisticated look on the summer trend while keeping the cool fade effect.  This one is from gaudete.com and is made of a wool-cashmere blend.

Metallic:

Usually I have a problem with boxy fits because they hide my waist and make me feel like a block. This one has a pretty pinkish copper color that is not too overwhelming and makes you glow. Its from L'Agence.
















Sequins:

Why this sweater works without looking like it came from tinsel town is because the sequins are spaced out. They add a touch of sparkle and still let you shine. From DKNY.

















Southwest Sweater:

Colors, patterns, and three big buttons. Also this one doesn't have those big ugly front pockets I don't like. But I'll save that for a future cardigan exclusive post.


















Chevron/Herringbone Sweater

Are those arrows pointing up or down? Coral orange, a color I usually stay away from, here is incorporated tastefully. This one is by Lucca Couture and available on metroparkusa.com.

















Grid:

Negative grid print that's also available in white on black. Who knew you could wear squares without being one.


















Colorblock:

Although it was last year's trend these pretty sweaters can make a comeback in your closet.


















Bow:

You are the gift. Sophisticated, stylish, and so adorable; you are what you wear.

















Waffle Knit:

Minty green and beige. Waffle knits have a 3D square patterned texture that keeps you warm and adds a nice effect.
















Cable Knit:

I got this one from H&M in during a buy one get one free sale. I have one in cream also. What I like about it is the three quarter length sleeves. I usually push my sleeves up and end up stretching and ruining them a bit. If you're the type to do this, go for shorter length.















It doesn't even have to be an ugly Christmas sweater:

Chain mail for the intergalactic army.

With advanced shoulder pad technology to keep you awake.

This makes my eyes scream.

Bad pun of the day!

Style Tips: Before you buy, make sure your sweater actually fits right. Whatever that fit is should make you look and feel good in it. Avoid the extremes (tight and potato sack) and go for somewhere in the middle to a bit looser for layering room. 

Layer over a collared shirt for a cute preppy style.

Wear a longer tunic type over leggings.

Match a plain one with patterned pants.

Feeling creative? Decorate a sweater with studs, spikes, and dip dye for your own ombre.