The winter aura outside definitely encourages snuggling up in a warm sweater. Seemingly easy to style, it is a wardrobe staple that can sometimes distort body proportions due to its slightly looser form. While trying one on in a fitting room, we might get the impression that we look the same in everything; however, there are a few tricks to make it look interesting and stylish. Today, I will share them with you in this post!
How to choose the right sweater?
Remember – the final aesthetic look of a sweater depends on several factors you should pay attention to while shopping. First, the composition: yarn made from natural fibers, which we described in detail in earlier posts (HERE is a link to a post about materials like merino wool, cashmere, or alpaca) and those of natural origin (viscose, modal, lyocell) possess thermoregulatory properties. In practice, these properties mean that the sweater provides warmth without overheating the body, and it also has a high hygroscopic index (moisture absorption), making such a sweater comfortable, functional, and pleasant to the touch. The most popular sweaters containing acrylic, polyacrylic, or polyester in their composition lack these properties, meaning such a sweater won't keep you warm or allow your skin to breathe properly, which will cause you to sweat.
Second, the cut: each of us has different body proportions and something different suits each of us. For example, a figure with a larger bust will look better in a V-neck. A woman with a smaller bust, in turn, will look very good in a turtleneck sweater. Additionally, sweater designs featuring a thick cable knit, a shiny thread, an off-the-shoulder neckline, ruffles, and similar details always "make" the whole outfit. By choosing such models, we don't have to worry too much about accessories – the decorative sweater is meant to take center stage in the outfit.
How to style a sweater?
- Tuck the hem of the sweater into your bottoms to optically lengthen your legs and accentuate your waist.
- Add a bit of sparkle to give the sweater an elegant and feminine character.
- Roll up your sleeves to expose your slim wrists, adding lightness to a silhouette that might otherwise be overwhelmed by a bulky sweater.
- In the case of a slightly longer or oversized sweater, add a belt at the waist to balance feminine proportions.
- Combine sweaters with other textures; for example, pairing a sweater with a flowy skirt, leather trousers, or smooth and elegant fabrics will surely yield a stunning effect.
- When wearing oversize sweaters, don't forget to highlight your legs with fitted styles to balance your figure's proportions.
The recipe for successful sweater outfits
Elegant and semi-formal outfits
A sweater is definitely not formal, which is why it should be paired with typically formal wardrobe elements like cigarette trousers, a pencil skirt, a pleated skirt, a long vest, or a blazer. For an elegant look, accessories such as high heels/pumps/ankle boots/sneakers, jewelry, a watch, a stylish bag, or a belt with a decorative buckle are also essential. Throw a classic coat over the top and… the outfit is ready!
Casual outfits
To ensure your everyday outfit isn't boring, you can pair your sweater with, for example, jeans with an interesting cut (slouchy, mom jeans, boyfriends), stylish sneakers, or ankle boots (e.g., with a thick sole, with studs). You can throw on a puffer jacket, a belt bag, and a beanie with a pom-pom on top. Don't forget that our nude, invisible undershirts and tops work perfectly as a base under any sweater.
As you can see, even an ordinary sweater can be stylish. It is an undeniable must-have in every woman's wardrobe due to its versatility and functionality. Try new combinations and solutions in your closet – a sweater will be perfect for January frosts!
Miss Buttoned Off-White T-shirt
Anna Ochman Stylist
