We’re sure you can relate to that cozy feeling when you put on a soft and thick woollen knit while in the cold. But before you stockpile on the chunky pieces, know this: not all sweaters are created equal, and they are certainly not one-size-fits-all. A tight sweater, for example, might fit an oblong figure to a T, but they’ll showcase the unwanted layers of someone who’s more full-figured.
We’re here to help. Here’s a low-down on how to nab that perfect sweater for your body type. So you can look fab and keep warm at the same time.
What it is: Broader shoulders than hips and waist.
Avoid: Anything that’s oversized, off-shoulder or tight-fitted as they’ll highlight the broadness of your shoulders.
Go for: V-neck sweaters as the apex will create a downward visual and draw attention away from your shoulders, highlighting your waist and hips instead. Also, sweaters with details that start below the bust line will work as they’ll also help cast the spotlight on your waist and hips.
Not only does the V-neck detail help draw the attention away from your shoulders, this piece that sports vertical rib details will further intensify this illusion. The bright red colour is a vibrant bonus.
A navy wool sweater is a reliable staple for your travel outfits. This pullover can be worn many ways — dress it up with flare pants and a pair of heeled booties, or down with white denim jeans and a pair of leather loafers.
What it is: Shoulders, waist and hips are around the same size.
Avoid: Boxy sweaters. You wouldn’t want to look more oblong than you already are.
Go for: Off-shoulder and oversized sweaters as they add more “layers” to your body, creating the illusion of a curvier figure. Otherwise, tight-fitted turtleneck sweaters are perfect as they highlight your slim figure and add emphasis to your decolletage.
You can never go wrong with a classic piece like this simple white turtleneck. Tuck it into a casual pair of slim jeans and jazz it up with a pair of sequin boots.
A great way to inject colour into your winter ensemble.
A classic black turtleneck sweater can be paired with anything. But lest you channel Steve Jobs, make the look more interesting by wearing it with a brightly coloured skirt. We also suggest getting one that’s textured to create more depth.
What it is: Shoulders and waist are narrower than hips.
Avoid: Anything that’s bottom heavy. Avoid sweaters that sport embellishment details or textures at the hemlines.
Go for: Sweaters that emphasise your upper body/shoulder region to balance out your proportion. Think sweaters with large necklines, such as cowl, scoop or boat necks. Ponchos are great too as they’re usually short sleeve, adding details to your shoulders and moving the gaze away from your derriere.
When shopping for pullovers, we recommend cashmere pieces as they are lightweight fabrics that will still keep you warm.
Another piece that highlights your chest area, we like it because of the feminine ruffle detail and cheery hue. Pair this with straight-cut trousers for this baby to stand out.
What it is: Shoulders and hips are narrower than waist.
Avoid: Anything that’s cinched or tight at the waist. Shun horizontal prints as well, because they will make you look wider than your actual size.
Go for: Sweaters that have vertical prints — they will elongate your figure and help you appear slimmer. Also, look for those that draw attention towards your shoulders. Think cowl and turtleneck sweaters — the more interesting at the top, the better.
Instead of a stripe pullover, you can go for a piece that has vertical ribbed details like this Balenciaga number. It does the same trick and is way easier to match.
Elongate your figure by going for this long line wool knit dress. This piece has a boxy cut and will hide your waist without compromising on style. Pair it with some knee-high boots for oomph.
A simple mustard pullover can look preppy too. Wear it with a pleated skirt and a pair of Superga sneakers to achieve the desired effect.
What it is: Shoulders and hips are well balanced, while waist is of a relatively small shape.
Avoid: Oversized sweaters as you’ll drown your figure.
Go for: Sweaters that are narrower at the waist line as they will emphasise your curves. Otherwise, those that are cinched at the waist with a belt will be perfect.
All eyes will be on you when you don this vermilion red sweater. Don’t go overboard — tame it down with a pair of casual wide-legged jeans.
Grab a sweater that has a longer hem — you can work it as a sweater dress by pairing it with knee-high leather boots.
A pullover with a peplum detail on its hem is great for flaunting your tiny waist.