I am officially over the cardigan.
A few weeks ago, on a particularly chilly day, I tried on dozens of cashmere cardigans and decided that I hated them all.
For starters, the traditional button-front cardigan doesn't go with anything I wear anymore. It's too short to look right over tunics, the sleeves are too slim to accommodate some of the fuller sleeve styles and well, it's a little boring to be quite honest.
So I've been shopping diligently for replacements to the typical cardigan sweater that we middle-age girls usually reach for and came up with four alternatives to share.
- The sweater coat. I'm crazy for the sweater coat because it has that drama factor that I love so much. Plus, it's long enough to wear and look right with leggings and tunics. And most sweater coats are chunky/substantial enough to last through until the coldest winter days. Shop for the Chico's long sweater coat that is pictured
- The cocoon sweater. This edgy style is popular right now in contemporary fashion circles, and it features a circular silhouette that's like nothing you already have in your closet. It's very chic and I think it's dressier than so many other sweater layers. There's a Rachel Zoe/QVC version that provides a lightweight layer; Nordstrom features a variety of cocoon styles that will add lots of style to your wardrobe.
- The sweater vest. I've just bought myself a chunky sweater vest that hits about hip length and is belted. Much in the same way that down vests keep you warm in the winter, I expect this chunky knit vest to do the same when worn with a long-sleeve top. Coldwater Creek has lots to choose from in this category
- The cape. I love the elegance of a cape, and this season they are trendy, too. Look for luxe styles in everything from velvet to cashmere. Neiman Marcus has a great high-end assortment of capes this year.
