Sweater Weather
Diane Pollack
We are officially in sweater weather.
Whether you are buying a gift for someone or want to update your personal selection, I thought it would be helpful to give you some tips on which sweaters would flatter different body types.
Now, this is not to say that if you like something other than what is suggested, you should not buy it or own it. This is merely a guideline, so you are aware and can make the best choices. If you love something else, I say "totally go for it”!
My first suggestion might be obvious but…
1) The MIDSECTION
Many women do not like their bellies and midsections. This is an easy fix. Wear a traditional relaxed or more updated oversized sweater. Anything clingy may call attention to your midsection. And just like in clothing, if you have any draping or shirring, this will also be really flattering.
You can also draw attention away from your midsection with a great neckline or by adding a fun scarf or short necklace.
2) BIG CHEST
Large expanses of the same solid fabric are going to make any area appear bigger. There are many tips and tricks to fix this issue. Open necklines are one. A Scoop neck, V-neck, or other open necklines will break up the area showing a combination of skin and fabric instead of the large expanse of fabric that a high neck will provide. Now if you do have a high neck, there are other ways to break it up with a necklace or scarf.
The sweater may also provide a break in the long expanse of fabric by color blocking, plackets, or other details in which case the neckline may no longer be important.
Also know that thick ribs and chunky cables are going to add bulk to any area. Generally, it is better if they are loose and not clingy.
Also, take note of the padding in your bras which has become ubiquitous. Look for unpadded bras that still have great support without the bulk.
3) SMALL CHEST
And as you might guess, the reverse is true for small chests. High necklines and turtlenecks look great on you. Fitted ribs and chunky cables are your friends. And anything else that might add volume to the top sections such as ruffles should work well for you.
This certainly is not to say that you can’t accessorize with scarves or necklaces.
Photo courtesy of Serge Bertasius Photography at freedigitalphotos.net
4) TALL
You can carry a maxi cardigan with ease. Tunics are great and you can even accessorize them with a hip belt for additional style.
5) PETITE
Believe it or not, you too can rock a maxi cardigan! The trick here is proportions. When wearing a longer length, hitting right above your knee is a great proportion. Here you should be able to carry it off with ease. Heels often help to balance out the length. You may be able to go even longer but this will vary depending on the specific item and even your personal proportions. So right above the knee is always a great length (use this proportion for coats too).
6) GENERAL SLIMMING
Back to the guideline, I gave you earlier about large expanses of fabric making you look larger - an open cardigan will do wonders. It breaks up your torso into 3 vertical sections. A very flattering optic!
7) COLOR
What are the colored items in your closet that when you put them on, you magically look more vibrant?
For those of you who know me, this is a favorite of mine. I have a lifesaver orange sweater and just purchased a fun yellow and “Valentino” Pink that I can’t wait to wear. In case you haven’t heard Viva Magenta is the color for 2023 and it is just slightly more purple than the “Valentino” Pink.
Now you may not be so bold and daring in your color selections. What about trying something more classic, red, royal blue, or a pastel?
Cozy up and look cute is the theme of the season.
It’s about to be 2023 are you dressed for it? This is the perfect time of year, to get organized, feel empowered and set yourself up for success. Contact me for your personal wardrobe needs.