Choosing the Right Sweater for Your Body Type

It's sweater season! Sweaters are both great looking and pragmatic. If you want to know how you can look sharp in a sweater, here are some tips on finding the right types of sweaters for your body type.

Turtlenecks

If you are claustrophobic than you've likely never even considered this style as an option. But if you want to explore your fashion sense more, these are a must have. From chunky to thin yarned, these sweaters can complement just about any body type. If you are short-necked, it can make your neck area look more elegant. If you are carrying a few extra pounds this type will "hide" your winter weight gain with style.

Cardigans

I know this sounds like an old lady essential, but the cardigan is in. Longer lengths with tie front closures can be a cozy way to stay warm. However, if you are thick waisted you should avoid this type of design that draws attention to your midsection. Instead, try a button or zipper closure cardigan that fits tailored to your upper body in a thin weight yarn. These go great with jeans and can be layered with a t-shirt incase you are inside a very heated building.

Wrap Arounds and Shrugs

These can be similar to cardigans, but have more bulk to them as they actually 'wrap' around your body more than just once. But believe it or not, if you are in the plus sized range this can look great on you. Just layer a camisole underneath and wear them over slim fitting jeans. And as far as Shrugs are concerned, if you have a large bust line, these styles will make you look heavy on the top. If you have large upper arms it will emphasis that as well. Shrugs are really only handy for small busted women who want a little more bulk in that area. Otherwise, avoid this style and let the teens carry it to its fashion grave next season.

Cables

Cable knit sweaters are very bulky in appearance, but comfortable all the same. For those of you with short waists or thick waists, stay away from vertical cables that also have a band around the bottom. These only make you look like a blob. But if you still insist on cables, try a cable design that has a Celtic knot appearance. The weave of this design will make you appear slimmer. Argyle designs will also add mass to your midsection, so beware.

Vertical stitch

This refers to sweaters that are stretchy and have a stitch design that runs vertically (excluding cable designs discussed earlier). The vertical lines of this type of sweater make it wearable for any body type. For thick waisted women, it slims your figure, and short women will have the illusion of height. Likewise, large hipped women can utilize this style with little effort. Make sure the sweater fits to your body, and you can't go wrong.

Cowl Necks

This is similar to a turtleneck, but a looser fit. The lovely drape of this type of sweater does wonders for any body type. It draws attention to your face, straightens the appearance of your shoulders, and can be accented with beaded necklaces without looking out of place. These sweaters are also very versatile, as they can be dressed up with a skirt or dressed down with jeans. Anyway you knit it, cowl necks are for every body type.

So, yield to the yarn this season and enjoy!