Section: Inclement Weather Wear - Blog

Sweaters are an inexpensive way to add versatility and colour to your wardrobe. Bulky knits keep you warmer in the fall and make dressing for inclement weather easy and fashionable.

On the other hand, thinner, finer weaves layer over other garments to add texture and dimension to your ensembles. However, how do you tell the difference between the various types and styles of sweaters? By using our handy guide, of course!

If you can't tell the difference between a turtleneck and an Aran sweater, don't stress out. We've got your back. Here's our essential guide to men's sweater types and styles.

Turtleneck Sweaters

Dark coloured, well-fitted turtlenecks are men's wardrobe staples. When paired with dark trousers, they make you look leaner and taller as well as enhance your style quotient.

These play nicely with tailor made suits, sports jackets, orblazers, or yhey can be used as layering pieces to increase your mix and match options. Alternatively, they are comfortable yet chic casual wear options for almost any occasion.

V-neck Sweaters

It's easy to differentiate these from other sweaters because of the distinctive “V” neckline. These sweaters complement button-down collar business shirts (worn with or without a necktie). The “V” cut draws attention to the wearer's face and creates the illusion of a leaner profile.

Popularised by Rock Hudson and Albert Einstein, the V-neck is appropriate business attire as long as the fabric is not loosely woven or "see-through." However, they play well with jeans as well when it's time to ditch the tie and enjoy some leisure time. It's best to avoid extremely low cut V-neck sweaters as they could look vulgar rather than fashionable.

Crew Neck Sweaters

The advantage of a crew neck? It doesn't reveal what you are wearing underneath it. Therefore, layer it over another garment you like - a t-shirt commemorating your favorite rock star, for example - because since it isn't visible, it is inconsequential - unless...you take your sweater off.

A button down collar is a natural companion for these sweaters and gives you that preppy look. Pay close attention to the fabric's quality when buying crew neck sweaters so the sweater performs to your satisfaction.

Polo Sweaters

For casual days and occasions, ditch your business shirt and slip into a comfortable, fashionable polo sweater.

While you can pull them off with a men's suit for certain occasions, they are best worn with a sports jacket or blazer, or on their own with odd trousers. Since they are not usually worn tucked inside the trousers, they should fit you perfectly.

Aran Sweaters

An authentic Aran sweater is an Irish original and as such, it is a work of art that declares the wearer's clan and history. These sweaters were traditionally used to keep men warm while at sea or enable easy identification in case someone fell overboard and drowned. Still made by hand on the Emerald Isle, each sweater requires around 100,000 stitches. These are best worn over clothing rather than under a sports jacket.

Cardigans

These are timeless men's wardrobe staples but for some reason, they are not worn as much as they used to be. Cardigans complement men of all ages and can be worn over a business shirt, layered beneath a sports jacket, or even matched with a men's suit.

They are easy to take off it if you get too hot or you need to dress down an outfit, and they are typically the only sweaters with functional pockets.

Sweater Vests

These work best when worn with a suit or sports jacket/odd trouser combination. While they don't need to match your other clothing, they should complement your trousers and jacket. An athletic built man can wear these with slacks or a quality jeans and a business shirt. Vests create a streamlined look by eliminating the contrast between the shirt and the pants.

If you're eager to put your new sweater knowledge to use, why not add a few new ones to round out your wardrobe? In fact, while you're studying your wardrobe to see what colours or styles of sweaters you might need, check to see if you need to add some new business shirts or men's suits. You can shop styles in our Sydney showroom or ouronline suit style gallery for inspiration.

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