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NEWS: The Sweater Dictionary
The Sweater Dictionary

Michael Kors Cashmere Kimono-Sleeve Pullover

The Sweater Dictionary

In This Guide:

.: Cardigans
.: Turtlenecks
.: Wrap Sweaters
.: V-Necks
.: Crewnecks

Sweater – n. 1. Clothing; apparel. 2. A knitted garment typically with long sleeves, worn over the upper body.

Ladies,

If nothing else, the one thing we look forward to each winter is slipping into a cozy cashmere pullover and feeling the soft fluff rub up against our skin. And though the virtual shelves of our favorite e-stores offer many amazing knitted tops, we've decided to narrow our guide down to the most classic styles to show you how each can be modified to fit into the wardrobes of gals with different fashion personalities and tastes. Whether chic and sophisticated, preppy and punk, or fun and flirty (and maybe even a little bit scandalous), we've got it all here in this easy-to-use reference.

Love,
SheFinds

.: the Cardigan :.

New Dream brass-button cardigan

New Dream brass-button cardigan @ JCrew

n. 1. A knitted sweater fastening down the front, typically with long sleeves. 2. A style that became popular in 17 th century France when fisherman began wearing heavy, hand-knitted versions to stay warm. 3. A classic fashion piece that will always have its wearer looking sophisticated and put together.

Application: The Everyday Sweater

The cardigan is a style most often pictured on "ladies who lunch'"or perhaps tucked into the poodle skirt of a 1950s teenager. But, really, it is the perfect everyday style that fits everyone and every occasion. A cardigan can be casual while layered over a fitted tee, refined when draped around your shoulders to compliment a delicate sundress, or professional as can be when used over a spaghetti strap top for an office appropriate look.

The Classic : J.Crew's brass-buttoned cashmere blend is a timeless piece that should be owned in a few different colors so you can mix and match with the rest of your wardrobe.

The Personalities : For the eclectic traveler type, this witty woolen cardi with a hand-printed map of Italy will see you through the adventures of your day with style.

A gal with a more rebellious nature might enjoy the fact that her pearl-buttoned Deborah Lindquist Fuchsia Cardigan is appliquéd with a bright white skull.

And a sky blue cashmere by Andy Cake with sweet floral embroidery and small pearlescent closures is a perfect fit for a Southern bell (or a Georgia peach at heart).

Wool-cashmere Italy cardigan

Wool-cashmere Italy cardigan, $125 @ JCrew

Deborah Lindquist Skull Cardigan

Deborah Lindquist Skull Cardigan, $286 @ RavinStyle.com

Bird of Prey Cardigan

Bird of Prey Cardigan, $330 @ CoutureCandy.com

.: the Turtleneck :.

Cozy turtleneck sweater

Cozy turtleneck sweater @ The Gap

n. 1. A high, close-fitting, turned-over collar on a garment, typically a shirt or sweater. 2. An elegant style that elongates the neck and looks best with hair worn up. 3. A look that is mainly reserved for the winter months.

Application: The Office

A turtleneck is as sophisticated and conservative as a sweater can get. From the stunted mock to the overflowing, droopy cowl, the turtleneck has changed a lot over time, but we still prefer the standard style. Whether it is folded over or casually scrunched, this version works best to keep the neck warm in freezing temperatures.

The Classic : The Gap's Cozy Turtleneck Sweater offers classic style from a company that specializes in good basics. For only $34, you get a very well thought out piece with nice details that make the sweater stand out. We love the reverse seams at the shoulders, the ribbed cuffs and waistband, and the addition of a little Lycra Spandex to keep the garment from stretching out due to wear and washing.

The Personalities : The KAROO Dolman Sleeve option with an interesting knit stitch and chic fold-over effect is girly without being obvious and comfortable without being slouchy. Don't shy away from those short sleeves because it is the perfect style to pair with this season's opera length gloves.

A rather scandalous and unconventional version, this Lily Mcneal open back sweater can make an easy transition from day to evening. Throw a blazer over it at the office, but come cocktail hour you will definitely want to find a coat check.

For someone who likes a romantic flourish to her outfit, look no further than this cable-knit Flared Peplum Turtleneck from Ralph Lauren. Made from only the finest Italian cashmere yarns, it also boasts chic high-waisted belt, another trend that will be around for a while.

 

.: the Wrap Sweater :.

Chunky Wrap Cardigan

Chunky Wrap Cardigan @ ASOS

n. 1. A soft material wrapped around someone or something, typically as a covering for warmth or protection. 2. A loose outer garment or piece of material. 3. Denoting a garment having one part overlapping another; a wraparound.

Application : Traveling

Sometimes you need a sweater that is extra cozy and snuggly, and nothing fulfills those requirements better than a wrap sweater. Whether you're facing an eight-hour flight to Paris or just a ten-minute cab ride downtown, being wrapped up in one of these makes you feel like you never left the warm blankets of your bed.

The Classic : The Chunky Wrap Cardigan from ASOS is the most common version of the wrap sweater, with a shawl collar neckline and overlapping ends that are belted together at the waist.

The Personalities : For a chick who wants to be casual, this simple cotton wrap from Velvet feels like snuggling up in your favorite T-shirt.

Cropped, fun, and feminine, a DKNY Baby Cozy will stylishly keep your shoulders warm while you're wearing this season's strapless sheaths at holiday parties.

What could possibly feel more like your favorite throw blanket than this YAYA Aflalo "Sarape" Sweater with tassel fringe? A wrap for the more extravagant soul, those block print stripes (a hot color trend) will even coordinate with your Louis Vuitton carry-on.

 

Velvet Sharon Wrap

Velvet Sharon Wrap, $79 @ RevolveClothing.com

Baby Cozy

Baby Cozy, $125 @ DKNY

Sarape Sweater Wrap

YAYA AFLALO Sarape Sweater Wrap, $412 @ Madison LA

.: the V-Neck :.

Cashmere V-neck sweater

Cashmere V-neck sweater @ The Gap

n. 1. A neckline of a garment, having straight sides meeting at a point to form a V-shape. 2. A garment with a neckline of this type. 3. A low-cut sweater that is good for layering over other tops.

Application: A Hot Date

Sexy and revealing with its plunging neckline, the V-neck can draw quite a bit of attention. This low-cut look is not always appropriate, however, so thoughtfully pick your places to wear it. If the cut is super low, it is usually best to layer it over another top--unless, of course, you are dressing for a hot date.

The Classic : The Gap's cashmere V-neck is made from 100% cashmere, slightly fitted, and cut just right. We call this classic perfect for a casual movie date.

The Personalities : The Maya Blonde Cashmere Rib-knit Vest serves as a soft and flirty option, with strips of sheer and flyaway cap sleeves adding some extra flair. We'll let you decide whether or not to wear something underneath it.

A sexy YAYA semi-sheer sweater with a very relaxed fit will casually slide off of your shoulders due to its front and back Vs.

Chic and sophisticated (with just a little hint of cleavage), this Michael Kors Kimono-Sleeve Pullover has a very flattering fit and is made in Italy, (which we've learned puts the 'cash' in cashmere).

.: the Crewneck :.

Cable crew neck sweater

Cable crew neck sweater @ The Gap

n. 1. A close-fitting, round neckline, especially on a sweater or T-shirt. 2. A sweater with such a neckline. 3. A good sweatshirt alternative.

Application: The Weekend

Just because you have a couple of days each week when you get to dress down doesn't mean you have to go everywhere in a Juicy Couture tracksuit. Pull on a nice pair of jeans and a comfortable crewneck to look casual and relaxed yet put together at the same time.

The Classic : We had to include the Gap's Cable Crew Neck. Yes, this retailer has graced our guide twice already, but you shouldn't mess with a good thing.

The Personalities : For the fashionista who won't wear anything but the latest trends, this eggplant Puff Sleeve Tunic from Hayden is trendy enough for this season but has staying power as well.

J.Crew also has great basics, but their Cashmere Argyle Sweater is a classic crewneck with a twist. The preppier set will enjoy the argyle pattern, but we adore the raglan style sleeves with button plackets at the shoulders and rumpled-in-a-good-way rolled edges.

Weekend sweaters give you the perfect opportunity to indulge in some great patterned pieces like Juicy Couture's 3/4 Sleeve Snow Bunny Pullover. We just love the girly pom-pom tie detail. A nice weekend trip to a ski resort and a cup of hot cocoa in front of a lodge fireplace will give you the perfect place to wear it.

 

Petite Sophisticate

FriendOf SheFinds

Petite Sophisticate

The average woman, who is 5'4" or less, usually finds standard clothing too long. Petite Sophisticate is the only brand dedicated to the petite-sized woman, sizes 0P-14P. Offering cozy sweaters, chic careerwear and casual activewear, there is something for any occasion.

Now through December 17th: Receive 40% off Sweaters and Outerwear. Offer can be combined with Free Shipping on $120+. Returns are free.

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