Combining style and comfort

It may be chilly and windy outside, but a great sweater can keep you warm. Despite their warmth and softness, a sweater can also be stylish and trendy. Picking the right sweater to flatter your figure just takes a bit of knowledge about fabrics. Before you pay for a particular sweater that has caught your eyes, first look at the label, Sweaters made from cashmere and mohair are the finest, softest sweaters, and they will also last for years if cared for properly. Wool sweaters will keep you warm, although they can also be bulky. Cotton sweaters are the lightest and easiest to maintain. Select a sweater based on your climate and the amount of care required to keep your sweater looking like new. Another aspect you have to keep in mind is the size. Select the right size. Sweaters are meant to keep you warm, but they shouldn’t make you look heavier, nor should they be skintight. If you are picking a sweater made from a fabric that can easily shrink, such as cotton or wool, consider buying a size larger. Also, think about where you plan to wear your sweater. A chunky, oversized sweater is great for a chilly night out but you may want a fitted, slim sweater for a party or a day at the office. Also go for the best style. Cardigans, which are thin button-up sweaters, are flattering on everyone because they come in varying lengths and can have short sleeves, three-quarter sleeves or long sleeves. Particularly long cardigans with pockets are sometimes called “boyfriend sweaters.” If you are a woman on the heavier side or have a large bust, you should avoid turtleneck sweaters, which can add bulk, and opt instead for V-neck sweaters, which elongate the torso and do not cover the neck. Lastly, for a woman, remember a sweater will only be figure-flattering if you also wear complementary clothing and accessories. For example, pair a thick cowl neck sweater or oversized sweater with skinny jeans or fitted pants so that you don’t appear top heavy. Try pairing women’s sweaters with boots and chunky bracelets and necklaces. For a softer look, wear delicate earrings and complement your sweater with a ruffled, feminine skirt. martin.bishop18@yahoo.com