FASHION/STYLE : Try the sweater

Without a doubt, sweaters rock. They match perfectly with jeans and other fabrics. Sweaters are the fanciest style and are becoming very popular amongst men and women of all ages. Sweaters work beautifully for those who have a reputation for a clean-cut and relaxed, approachable image. Though the name is a bit disappointing, sweaters are making quite the mark in the fashion world. They are really fancy and they can make even the blandest of outfits effortlessly glamorous. This is a great time to explore a more casual and comfortable side as well, and the trick to make it happen is keeping it as simple as possible. For this hot season, try a pair of standard fit corduroys in a fine gauge – perhaps in a thin pencil stripe or herringbone pattern. Brown would be advisable in its entire range of shades but olives can certainly work as well for more mature gentlemen. Soft sweaters or perhaps a V-neck worn with casual pants and topped off with a snugly fitted sport or dress would be a very sharp and clean look to compliment most men. The necktie is optional and is a matter of individual consideration. Certainly it would look fabulous in this instance if paired according to the general rules of taste and discretion. “Smartness knows no weather’, like the adage, it’s indeed true smartness knows no weather. Although the weather is really hot sweaters are becoming more and more popular for modern styles. “I think sweaters are a perennial classic,” says Annette Umuhoza. “There’s something about them—they’re so trendy and flattering, and you can go so many ways with them, so they add a huge element of versatility to your wardrobe.” She adds that her favourites are sleeveless sweaters which she often wears with long-sleeved shirts. Khalid Gakwaya, who confesses to be obsessed with sweaters, says he prefers collarless and unbuttoned sweaters. “I wear them as alternatives to coats. I’ve bought them in plenty and often match them with shirts and ties, especially on formal occasions.” Tips Be cautious of black. Black is a colour best suited for evening wear in the summer, and generally is a colour best suited for formalwear or outerwear during the winter months. Most colours suitable for hot weather are very soft pastels or earth-tones. If black must be worn, limit it to a single piece of clothing at once, such as a necktie, cardigan, or pants. Buy more lightweight garments. Most wear outlets will be liquidating their older stock from cold seasons. Be careful to purchase items that will be comfortable throughout your day. Linen and fine cottons are excellent choices for hot weather seasons. Take a step forward. Invest in your wardrobe by overcoming a particular grudge you might hold towards a typical item of clothing, perhaps the sweater vest or even the concept of bright, bold colours. Having a progressive attitude towards fashion trends and your own personal taste will serve you very well during the season of colour and reinvention! lindaonly2005@yahoo.com