COOL WOOL

These Are Not Your Grandpa’s Sweaters

A sweater is a practical addition to any wardrobe when the weather turns chilly, but you don’t have to look like Mr. Rogers. From cardigans to turtlenecks, here are some stylish alternatives.

Sweaters are essential, basic items that we all need for cold weather. However, depending on how you wear them, they can be both fashionable and practical. Here are five different ways to incorporate them into your wardrobe this winter.

One way to incorporate a sweater is to pick a fun graphic pattern to make it a focal point of the whole outfit. This Salvatore Ferragamo non-traditional argyle patterned sweater is a perfect example because it adds such a fun twist to the whole look. Just remember to keep the rest of your outfit as classic and minimal as possible. A dark-colored overcoat and classic pair of trousers will nicely balance out the whole look.

Argyle Patterned Sweater by Salvatore FerragamoCoat by Polo Ralph LaurenPants by HelbersShoes by Sandro

You don’t always have to pick fun patterns to make a statement. You can also simply pick a nice colored sweater to create a very stylish outfit. Here as you can see, the grey tonal suit and coat paired with a light blue sweater as an accent could be very chic. (main image above)

Crewneck Sweater by Ermenegildo ZegnaCoat by Club MonacoSuit by Ermenegildo ZegnaShoes by Aquatalia

We also wanted to address more “practical” way to incorporate sweaters, which is one way to use cardigans. They are perfect especially for your everyday commute. Whether you go for a nice cashmere button-down type or an easy zip-up style, this extra layer keeps you warm going to work in the cold morning, and you can easily take it off (if needed) once you arrive in the office. Paring with a nice button-down shirt is a must along with a chic commuter overcoat.

Button-down Cardigan by Iris von ArnimCoat by Arc’teryx VeilanceShirt & Shoes by SandroPants by Salvatore Ferragamo

Turtleneck sweaters could also be practical, covering your neck to keep you warm. But if you think the look is a bit too formal and grandpa-looking, pick something with more volume, something chunkier rather than simple fitted, traditional turtlenecks. Styling it with “knitted suits” is definitely the way to go this season, giving an impression of athleisure that is sporty yet looking smart.

Turtleneck Sweater by Michael KorsJacket & Pants by TomorrowlandShoes by Sandro

Finally, sweaters are not just meant to be worn underneath your jacket. There are thick knitted styles that can be worn as an outerwear. In this case, the fit is very important. Definitely pick a zip-up rib knit type that has a fitted cut that prevents it from looking bulky. All the rest you need is a long sleeve t-shirt underneath and a nice pair of dress pants to create an effortless chic feel.

Zip-up Sweater Jacket by TheoryPants & Scarf by Officine GénéraleBoots by Aquatalia

Photo: HayatoStyling: MitsuTsuchiyaGrooming: Jun GotoPhoto Assistant: Tsubasa Tsutsui

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