The Sweater Guide: An Essential Wardrobe Staple for Men

Sweaters are some of the important wardrobe staples every classy gentleman should have in his wardrobe. A sweater is a stylish and unique piece of garment that complements your personality and sense of style. It presents you in a more refined and sophisticated way. 

Sweaters, also known as jumpers, are a casual wardrobe staple for classy gentlemen. They come in many shapes, patterns, and materials.

Sadly, not many men value this stylish piece but only a handful understand how it helps you transition between the seasons, add texture and layers to your outfits, and help you stay warm in chilly environments.

Some just see it as a convenient and extrinsic piece of material worn to keep you warm in the cold days. They also have a stigma of being an “old man’s sweater” but the truth is, they complement men of all ages and styles.

I’m sure you’ve asked yourself why you would want to wear sweaters, let me tell you why…

VERSATILITY!

Plus, they are the perfect middleman between casual and formal – they can be paired with anything; a dress shirt, a sports jacket, or matched with a classy suit.

And the best part? They can be very attractive on you!

I bet you’re already having second thoughts about them, but if you aren’t, well give me a few minutes to convince you otherwise.

The aim of writing this interesting piece is to expose you to options you might not have considered so you can dress in a manner that best reflects your individuality. Let’s move on to the next phase, gentlemen.

WHAT ARE THE DIFFERENT STYLES AND FABRIC OF SWEATERS?

A. Sweater Styles

#1. Crew Neck

The crew neck is the most common sweater style, it is a sweater with a rounded, close-fitting neck. It can be worn on a collared shirt or underneath a jacket, however, it cannot be worn with a necktie except it’s a knit tie. It is a casual style of sweater and it comes in different colors and patterns.

#2. V-Neck

Similar to the crew neck but with the neckline cut into a V-shape, it can be worn by itself or layered with other pieces. Plus it helps to display the shirt you’re wearing underneath. Due to the cut, this sweater is best worn with a collared shirt and a tie or an ascot, making it perfect for the office. The “V” shaped cut helps to draw attention to the face and creates a leaner profile illusion feature.

#3. Turtleneck

Also known as a roll neck, it can be worn alone with a pair of chinos or blue jeans, or they can be worn casually on Fridays to the office under a blazer or a suit. It will make you look leaner, taller, and more stylish. This should be a staple in every stylish man’s wardrobe.

#4. Shawl collar

This modern sweater originated from the military sweaters given to American GIs. It has a rolled neck that is crossed or uncrossed in a V-shape. This is a very unique style that provides a relaxed and casual fit – and it complements men of all ages. Its versatility allows it to be paired with denim and boots or slacks and a button-up with ease.

#5. Cardigan

This is one of the most versatile and underused sweaters in a man’s wardrobe, it is also a great casual sweater that can be thrown over any ensemble with ease. It can be worn over a dress shirt, underneath a sports jacket, or matched with a suit.

#6. Half-zip

This is a relatively new style of a sweater with a high collar that can either be opened or closed with a short zipper. It leaves room for a collared shirt beneath the sweater. It can also be worn casually with chinos or jeans.

#7. Tennis sweaters

Tennis sweaters are classic sweaters with a deep V-neck and a brightly colored trim around the neckline and cuffs. Usually cable-knit in white or cream, they also come in a variety of colors. They look good over jeans and a T-shirt or layered with a suit or slim chinos.

#8. Commando or “Wooly Pully”  

This close-fitting crewneck sweater was prolific amongst the military. It features reinforced elbow patches used by military, police, etc. If you are looking for a warm sweater that works in the bush or about town, the wooly pully will serve you well.

B. Sweater Fabric Types

1. Cashmere Sweaters: This sweater material is derived from the fine under hair of the Kashmir goat, hence the name cashmere sweater. They are very expensive because of how it was gotten. Warm and light as a feather, a cashmere sweater is a substantial investment for any man.
2. Wool Sweaters: They are the oldest and most common quality sweater fabric, plus, they easily retain heat and it’s a favorite of men all over the world. Although they can be itchy, that shouldn’t prevent stop you from looking at this beautiful fabric. You can wear them over a button-down shirt and under a jacket. Wool sweaters require great care, they are very sensitive to heat and rough handling, and they lose 30% of its strength when soaked in water. So you should handle your wool sweaters with care.
3. Cotton Sweaters: They are made from cotton fabric. Cotton sweaters shed heat faster, why you can wear them directly on the skin with no irritation.  Plus it is not very expensive. Cotton and linen are especially popular in warmer climates or for transitional seasons. They are also great when traveling since they are light compared to thicker wool sweaters.
4. Synthetic Fabric Sweaters: Synthetic fabric sweaters like the cotton sweaters – although low in quality, are very affordable. They can mimic the properties of wool or cotton, without all the extra care when washing and handling it.

Golden Rules to Know When Picking a Sweater

• Make sure the sweater isn’t too tight when you try it on. It should lightly wrap around your arms and torso while at the same time so it doesn’t look too baggy.
• Pick a sweater with a slender band at the wrist area so it doesn’t slide down when you push the sleeves up your arm. This way you feel very comfortable.
• Select colors based that will complement with what you have in your wardrobe. Color can make or break a first impression.
• Go for a simple and timeless sweater that you can wear to any occasion.

FINAL THOUGHTS

With the cold weather, the right sweater is the most reliable item you should have in your wardrobe. With distinctive styles and colors available, you’re bound to find a selection that suits your needs.

What is your favorite style of sweater and how do you wear it? Share your thoughts in the comment section below.

Until you hear from me again, continue to do well, live well and dress really well. Be Classy.

Yours in Style,

Kobi O. Mbagwu [Mr. Kobi]
Founder, KOBI KOACHMAN FASHION

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KOBI KOACHMAN

My name is Kobi O. Mbagwu, a professional image consultant, menswear expert, and entrepreneur who uses fashion to change people’s lives. My personal goal is to help gentlemen dress better, live well, do well and develop a unique personal style that matches their lifestyle and goals. I believe that success can be built through style. I believe that fashion is a tool that can be used to change people’s lives positively. I strongly believe that if you dress well, you look good, and if you look good, you feel good and when you feel good, you worry less, and the less you worry the more you are able to stay motivated and focused on your goals pursuit and by so doing you are able to live a more fulfilling and successful life.

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