Hot Sweater Trends for Fall/Winter 2007-2008

Although the sun may still be shining and warm in your neck of the woods, fall and winter are right around the corner bringing oodles of delicious sweaters your way!

Slim fitting sweaters are still "in", but the look on the runways for the Fall/Winter 2007-2008 collections were chunky, chunky, chunky, and that goes for the sweaters, not the models. Malo, Anne Klein, and Calvin Klein showed off richly textured and oversized (aka chunky) knits in solid, cardigan and turtleneck versions while Diane von Furstenburg wowed her crowds with an oversized, floppy collared sweater-coat mixing style and versatility. These chunky knits are perfect for wearing over leggings or skinny jeans and can be converted into more figure flattering shapes with the addition of a wide belt around the waist. These sweaters mix comfort with style, and the fact that they'll keep you warm when the barometer drops doesn't hurt either!

The 1980's influence is alive and well in the world of sweaters this fall as well. Look for off the shoulder styles in solids colors, stripes and geometric designs. Sweater dresses, which also hark back to the 80's will be a hot item for the season and can be worn over slim jeans, leggings, or paired up with knee high boots for a retro yet fashion savvy look. These sweater dresses can be easlity accessorized with belts, scarves or a simple necklace and can take you from the office to dinner on the town without the need to run home and change.

If big slouchy sweaters are not your thing and you have no desire to revisit the 80's just yet, have no fear. There are a wide variety of sweater styles available for this fall in materials ranging from cashmere to cotton and wool to synthetics and which are classic in shape and flattering to any and every body type. Cardigans are making their comeback worn as a layer over t-shirts, tank tops or a lighterweight sweater and work well from day to evening. Marc Jacobs' cardigan coat is a fantastic example of this season's perfect cardi.

Other classic knits that are going to be on the forefront this season are fitted v-necks reminiscent of 40's screen idols a.s well as the eternally stylish turtleneck. Preppy chic is also making its own comeback with smaller sweaters worn over longer shirts and shrunken tie front sweaters layered over fitted t-shirts. These last two options are perfect for the girl who lives somewhere that doesn't get too cold therefore not requiring heavier knits.

The colors of choice for sweaters this season are proving to be black, gray and cream with the occasional splash of dark orange and plum. Although Sonia Rykiel's models glided down her catwalk covered head to toe in classicaly beautiful knits in every shade of gray imagineable, black is still being touted as the "can't go wrong" color and a few styles in this hue will only add to the versatility of your fall/winter wardrobe. Designs and patterns are not going to be the number one choice for the season although some geometric shapes and stripes may still be seen. Solids are definitely preferred by designers and fashionistas alike for this fall & winter.

Depending on the knit and style, you'll be wearing your sweaters anywhere and everywhere. From running errands to a nice cocktail hour, sweaters have the versatility to keep you covered (literally and figuratively!) depending on how and what you pair them up with. Basic cable knits and wool sweaters always go well with a pair of your favorite jeans, while a lighter, drapier knit can be work layered over a camisole or slim fitting shirt and paired with a pencil skirt for a more elegant look or occasion. The rule of thumb being that what you wear beneath your sweater should enhance it and not detract from it. For example, you don't want to wear slouchy jeans with a chunky sweater. Creating balance and proportion in your outfit is of the essence.

Adding sweaters to your fall & winter line-up doesn't have to be a chore. Sweaters go beyond being functional and keeping you warm when Jack Frost moves into town, they can also be another way to make your wardrobe chic and fashion forward. Stock up on some of this season's hottest sweater styles and stay toasty while looking fabulous. Those holiday knits grandma sent you last Christmas can stay in the back of your closet!