As cold weather approaches, people often look to their wardrobe to see if they will need to purchase new items to keep them warm. One item that many people choose to buy for this purpose is a sweater. These tops are extremely versatile, and the right choice will be one that is comfortable enough to wear every day. What should one know before buying a sweater? What questions should be asked to ensure the right choice is made? The following are four things to keep in mind as you go shopping for new winter clothing.
How Do I Care for the Sweater?
This is a very important question that many people forget to ask only to be disappointed when they get the sweater home. Some sweaters can only be dry-cleaned. Although the sweater may be worn more than once before it is taken in for a cleaning, this adds to the cost of the sweater and therefore needs to be considered. Others must be hand-washed, and time will need to be reserved to allow the sweater to dry flat. This ensures that it does not shrink, stretch, or otherwise lose its shape. Again, this should be known before the sweater is purchased.
Certain companies now make sweaters that can be washed and dried, and many individuals prefer these types as they are easy to care for. There is no need to worry about a sweater accidentally making its way into the wash and being ruined as a result. Every sweater should have this information right on the tag, so be sure to read it carefully so you know what care is required. This way you won’t have any surprises when you get home. If after reading the tag you have any questions, don’t hesitate to contact us for help.
What Materials Is the Sweater Made From?
Consider the yarn used to make the sweater when choosing. Wool is a fiber used to make countless sweaters, and there are different types of wool to be aware of. Many sweaters are made from lambswool, shetland, or merino wool. Merino is the softest while Shetland is rougher and what many sweaters used to be made of that people felt were itchy. All tend to produce sweaters designed for very cold days. Cashmere is another type of wool, and its high price is due to its lightweight and softness. Cashmere sweaters, however, are very durable.
Another material commonly used to make sweaters is cotton. Items made from this material are lightweight and cool, making them perfect for spring and summer. Cotton sweaters tend to be casual wear, but they can be dressed up with the right accessories. Other natural fibers that might be used in the making of a sweater include silk and linen. Synthetic fibers are also frequently used to make sweaters, but they don’t last as long as natural fibers. However, there are times when natural and synthetic fibers are combined, so the wearer gets the best of both worlds. Be sure to look at the tag to know what the sweater you are purchasing is made of.
Does the Size Run True?
This question is of great importance if you plan on purchasing sweaters online. As the selection is much greater when a person turns to the internet, more people are now choosing this method when they need new clothing. However, sizes may vary by brand, and a consumer needs to be aware of this. Be sure to ask if the sizes run true or if adjustments need to be made to ensure the sweater fits when it arrives.
If there are any questions regarding the fit, don’t hesitate to ask for measurements of the sweater. Learn the bust and waist measurement as well as the length and compare this to a sweater that is currently owned. This ensures the item will fit as intended when it arrives. Don’t hesitate to go up or down a size based on the measurements provided. Be sure, however, to learn about the store’s return policy, as you don’t want the product to not fit only to discover it cannot be exchanged or returned.
When Is It Appropriate to Wear the Sweater?
Sweaters come in many styles, and a person may make their selection based solely on what they like. Nevertheless, it never hurts to consider the style and where the sweater will be worn to ensure the right choice is made. For example, v-neck pullovers are considered to be casual clothing and may not be suitable for a business dinner. On the other hand, turtleneck sweaters are often too hot for anything but the coldest days. Nevertheless, this type of sweater can be worn alone or under a jacket or blazer to provide a dressier look.
Cardigans have come back into fashion, and it’s easy to see why. With so many styles to choose from, there is a cardigan for every occasion. They can be layered over a blouse or dress shirt for the office and a t-shirt for a night out on the town with friends. However, if there is one sweater every person should own in their lifetime, it is a cashmere sweater. The luxurious feel of this material is enough to make it suitable for any occasion, as the wearer will feel warm and cozy regardless of where they are. Keep this in mind when comparing the different sweater options and consider investing in at least one cashmere sweater in your life.
Now that you have a better understanding of what to look for when purchasing a sweater, it’s time to go shopping. The biggest problem you will likely encounter is choosing only a few sweaters to buy. With so many choices, it would be easy to find a different one for every day of the month. If there isn’t the money to buy this many items, choose two or three that you love. Once you see how comfortable and versatile they are, try to find more in the budget to pick up another one or two. These are purchases you will never come to regret.