Sweater Weather - How to Wear Sweaters

Striped, Fair Isle, Cashmere, Wool, Cardigan, Crew Neck . . .there are so many sweaters to choose from. Welcome back for our weekly fashion for real women post. Today, let's talk about sweaters. Since it seems as if winter may never end around here, I'm plowing through my stack of sweaters.

I have some favorites that I wear a lot, like my black cashmere tunic, an ivory chunky turtleneck and my 2 cashmere drapey cardigans. I like sweaters that aren't fussy, and as with most of my clothing, I prefer traditional pieces (twinsets anyone??)

There are a few things to remember when buying and wearing sweaters:

• Buy the best material you can afford - better fibers lay nicer.
• Fit is important - not too big and not too tight.
• Classic cuts, like crewnecks, will have a longer fashion life.
• A thin layering piece can help reduce bulk.

This past week, I pulled out an old Ann Taylor favorite (sorry about the poor picture), a raspberry v-neck cashmere sweater. I say cashmere a lot here don't I? Want to know why? It looks and feels great and it's a classic. These days you can find very affordable cashmere at places like Lord and Taylor, Ann Taylor and Lands End. It lasts. A good cashmere can last you several seasons without losing it's shape or style.

I'm going to let you in on a little secret with this sweater,  it's a shade too short for my taste. Remember a few years ago, tops were cropped shorter. To combat that, I slipped on one my favorite Chico's layering tanks underneath. Not only does it help the sweater lay flatter over the front and waist of my jeans, but it adds an extra 1 - 1 1/2" of fabric to the length.

Sweater - Ann Taylor (old)

Jeans - Ann Taylor Modern Skinny Dark Rinse

Tank - Chicos Basic Tank

Scarf - Kate Spade

Bag - Kate Spade

Boots - Aerosoles

Necklace - Ann Taylor

Here are a couple other looks with favorite sweaters:

The ivory sweater is an old cotton one from Lands End - I keep looking for one to replace it, but can't find exactly what I'm looking for in my budget. The black one is a very basic cashmere tunic, paired here with my favorite green jeans I bought for a penny.

So sweaters can not only keep you warm, they can be a great fashion statement and pull your outfit together.

What's your favorite sweater?

catch you soon -
 This post is linked up at The Pleated Poppy and at Get Your Pretty On. Check them out for even more outfit ideas and inspiration!