Sweater School

My girl Courtney, photographed by myself.
Graphic sweater and crochet hat available at The Purple Zebra

There’s no doubt that the coolest thing for me about the dropping temperatures this time of year is the hunt for Fall’s hottest sweaters.  I love the hunt for the vintage silhouettes and patterns that are taking over the fashion world this season.  And nothing makes me smile more than walking through the quaint, tree lined towns of our area where the sidewalks are covered with vibrantly colored fallen leaves, for some fall shopping.  I love that our area has so much to offer in terms of downtown shopping, and while you may have to travel to different towns depending on what you’re looking for, each small downtown area has a certain niche of their own.  After all, who wants to spend the last few months of bearable temperatures in a mall?  This week, I went on a hunt for some thrift store finds to mix with some of the fall fashion that I carry in my shop.  I’m all about layering this Fall- it’s functional and stylish, and who can honestly argue with staying warm and looking cool at the same time?  Here are some of my rules on how to wear knits this Fall:

1. Oversized.  There are multiple ways to wear an oversized sweater this Fall.  The easiest, and most flattering way to wear an oversized sweater is to pair it with something fitted on the bottom.  Try to skip the leggings, however.  I know, I know, they’re comfy and easy to wear, and expand along with your waistline over the holidays, but please save them for sick days as often as possible.  I’m a sucker for a good pair of leggings too, but the days of leggings are over, thankfully.  Instead, pair your larger knits with a pair of skinny jeans in a color or dark wash, or wear your baggy sweaters with a mini skirt of pair of shorts layered over a pair of opaque tights.  If you are a slim build, get creative with your larger sweaters, and wear them with a maxi skirt or wide leg pant.  Be sure to wear heels to lengthen your legs if you do try this trend, and stick to a fitted jacket on top to balance your frame!
2. Cropped.   Cropped sweaters pack just as much punch as their oversized counterparts this season.   The easiest way to wear a cropped sweater is to choose a crew neck sweater in a loose knit that has a slouchy fit.  Layer it on over a contrasting blouse.  Yes, blouse. To pull this look off, choose a button up blouse with a fold over collar (buttoned all the way up, so you don’t look like a hussy, as grandma would say).   For an easy start, try a pale pink button up blouse under a camel colored cropped sweater.  To spice things up, choose a patterned blouse!
3. Cardigans. I have always loved cardigans and have rarely been able to part with them no matter their condition, which is why I’m so excited they’ve made such a comeback this Fall (not that they’ve ever been out, in my opinion)!  If you don’t feel like spending mega bucks on a new closet full of mustard colored cardis this fall (which is my favorite color this season, by the way), head to a thrift store or your mom or dad’s closet.  If your mom’s closet is anything like my mother’s, you could potentially be lost for days, so be sure to tell someone where you’re headed.  In fact, you may be able to convince your mom that you would like to help her “clean dad’s closet”.  What looks hideous on dad, may just be tomorrow’s ensemble.  My favorite cardigans are longer cardis with deep fronts, which look best when paired with a fitted blouse.  Chose a blouse with some frill on the front, which will look amazing peeking out of the deep “v” cut of the cardigan.  Once again, choose a contrasting color and/or pattern, and be sure to button all the way up!  Buttoning all the way up doesn’t mean you can’t have any fun, however.  The boldest blouse trends right now have oversized details like large bows on the front, so let loose, girl.
4. Graphic Arts.  Start gearing up for your holiday ugly sweater parties a little early this year.  Graphic patterned sweaters make a bold statement any day of the week.  Look for sweaters that are color-blocked in neutral shades like black, gray and white, and pair them with a pair of black skinnies, some scrunchy socks, and wedge booties.  Layer on a black leather jacket and you’ll be the coolest girl who never left the 80’s (but please spare us the teased hair).
5. Pattern Mixing.  Pattern mixing applies to everything right now, and sweaters are no different.  You can mix patterns in many ways regarding sweaters.  Try out different looks to find what you like to mix.  Some ideas?  Try mixing a floral print blouse with a striped sweater, or try pairing bold plaid pants with a striped sweater!  Let your imagination run, and try out options that you wouldn’t normally think of.  The easiest way to get started without clashing is to try different patterns that are in the same color families.  For example, try different patterns in a singular shade of red, which is a super hot color this season.  The easiest way to accomplish this is to head to a department store or specialty store that’s already done the color thing for you.  Most lines will carry separates in the same color family that will coordinate together to create a complete look.  Also, don’t be afraid to ask the sales associate!  They can provide an unbiased opinion on what looks good on you, should be able to assist you in creating a look that you may never have thought on your own!

Get creative and keep warm by trying all of these sweater ideas this Fall.  Sweaters aren’t just for the ski slopes this season, so get shopping!  For more fashion wholesomeness, check out my store website The Purple Zebra and follow me on twitter @goodnpretty.