subject: Learn What Makes Sweaters Chic & Seasonless [print this page] Sweater materials such as cashmere can be worn year round, cotton being suitable for summer and wools for winter; this makes sweaters a very versatile piece of clothing. I'm personally addicted to knits and wear them whenever an opportunity presents itself. I wear knits year round and I truly love the comfort they offer and the way they add texture and richness to an outfit. Below is a review of what makes sweaters chic and season-less.
Cashmere Sweaters
Cashmere is undoubtedly the richest of all sweater material you can have in your wardrobe, this is because cashmere is very soft and can be worn year round. When buying cashmere for the first time go with neutral colors like navy, black and charcoal. For guys here is a catch, be informed that women love to touch cashmere sweaters, this should a reason enough to justify your spending on a sweater.
Crew-neck Sweaters
Crew-neck Sweaters are so easily worn over a tee and with jeans for a more casual look. The same sweater can be worn with slacks and over a button up shirt for the office or a date. They are a must in every wardrobe. It is usually a personal preference thing when it comes to v-neck vs. crew-neck. I like both.
Cardigans
Before you judge cardigans too harshly let me emphasize that I'm not talking about the kind of cardigan your dad or gramps would wear. More modern versions are made of cotton, merino wool and cashmere. They can be thin enough to wear under a jacket and have a double zipper allowing you to pull it on or off with ease, or to unzip the bottom slightly when you're sitting.
They are simply ideal for layering and there are so many ways to wear them over a tee, over a button down, under a sport jacket, with jeans cords, and slacks. Give one a try if you haven't in a while.
Polos
In the summer you can find polo style sweaters. More often they are made with cotton and have short sleeves. They are a perfect compliment to khakis for those casual Fridays at the office. I have many polo knits for the summer months since they are easy to wear and look more dressed up than typical pique polo.
Turtlenecks
Turtlenecks are obviously reserved for the colder months. Lightweight merino-wool or cashmere turtlenecks look stylish under suit jackets and are casual enough to wear with jeans or cords. A chunky cable-knit also goes great with jeans. The fit of a turtleneck looks best when more fitted to the body and neck. With that said, avoid them if you are even somewhat heavy, it only accentuates your less than perfect physique.
How to care for your sweaters
Generally speaking you should have your sweaters dry-cleaned once a season (that is if you have been able to avoid splattering pasta sauce all over yourself). This would include cottons, wools and cashmere. However, wool and cashmere sweaters can be hand washed with a gentle detergent like Woolite. In fact, I highly recommend hand washing your wool and cashmere sweaters since they come out feeling softer than if you dry clean.
