Photo: Instagram/ imjennim
We’re sure you can relate to that cozy feeling when you put on a soft and thick woolen 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 fabulous and keep warm at the same time.
Inverted Triangle
https://www.herworld.com/style/fashion/trends-and-tips/shopping-tips-oversized-sweater-body-type/
Inverted Triangle sweater
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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.
Cashmere sweater by Allude, £380 ($691), via Net-a-Porter
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Get a piece that sports camouflage print for a more interesting flair. This V-neck number will look snazzy with khaki coloured trousers and a brown pea coat.
Camo printed sweater by Burberry, £690 ($1,255), via Net-a-Porter
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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.
Lambswool cocoon sweater by Uniqlo, $59.90
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The wider the V, the deeper the illusion it creates. But make sure it’s not so wide that it slips off your shoulders! Pair this feminine dusky pink piece with a wool skirt and a duster coat for a chic look.
Cashmere sweater by H&M Conscious Exclusive, $179
What is it: 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.
Rectangle
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Rectangle sweater
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Keep this oversized sweater bunched up slightly above your hips — it will create the illusion of a fuller derriere.
Wool sweater by Isabel Marant, US$715 ($982), via Matchesfashion
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A classic black turtleneck sweater can be paired with anything. But to prevent looking like Steve Jobs, make the look more interesting by wearing it with a bright coloured skirt. We also suggest getting one that’s textured to create more depth.
Ribbed sweater by Zara, $59.90
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A great way to inject colour into your winter ensemble without looking too cray is to play with shades. A bright yellow sweater may be intimidating, so go for one that’s fashioned in mustard.
Oversized cable knit by Zara, $89.90
What is it: 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 (not to mention they flaunt your collarbone too!). Otherwise, tight-fitted turtleneck sweaters are perfect as they highlight your slim figure and add emphasis to your décolletage.
Pear
https://www.herworld.com/style/fashion/trends-and-tips/shopping-tips-oversized-sweater-body-type/
Pear sweater
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When shopping for pullovers, we recommend cashmere pieces as they are lightweight fabrics (lesser load on your luggage!) that will still keep you warm. This piece can be worn over a wool LBD to create an interesting layering effect.
Cashmere poncho by Barrie, US$1,178 ($1614), via Matchesfashion
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This Calvin Klein number is perfect as it sports quirky textured embroidery at the chest area. It’s simple, yet interesting enough to stand out when worn with a pair of blue denim jeans.
Embroidered wool sweater by Calvin Klein 205W39NYC, £795 ($1,446), via Net-a-Porter
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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.
Ruffled sweater by Topshop, $99.90
What is it: 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.
Apple
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https://www.herworld.com/style/fashion/trends-and-tips/shopping-tips-oversized-sweater-body-type/
Apple sweater
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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, is fashionable, and is way easier to match.
Ribbed turtleneck sweater by Balenciaga, £935 ($1,700), via Net-a-Porter
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A sweater dress that sports a V-neckline will help distract eyeballs away from your waistline. Enliven your outfit by pairing this simple piece with a statement emerald green coat.
V-neck sweater dress by Totême, $494, via Farfetch
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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.
Turtleneck knitted sweater by H&M, $54.95
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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.
Wool knit dress by COS, US$125 ($172)
What is it: Shoulders and hips are narrower than waist.
Avoid: Anything that’s cinched or tight at the waist. Shun anything with 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 (and away from your waist). Think of cowl and turtleneck sweaters — the more interesting at the top, the better.
Hourglass
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https://www.herworld.com/style/fashion/trends-and-tips/shopping-tips-oversized-sweater-body-type/
Hourglass sweater
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This netural coloured sweater comes with a black waist tie — which means it will be totes flattering for your figure. Pair this with a knitted midi skirt and a pair of flat Chelsea boots.
Merino sweater by Simone Rocha, $933, via Farfetch
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Grab a sweater that has a longer hem — you can work it as a sweater dress by pairing it with knee-high leather boots.
Merino wool sweater by COS, US$115 ($158)
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A pullover with girly peplum detail on its hem is great for flaunting your tiny waist — the bouffant effect will make you look curvier than ever.
Glittery peplum pullover by H&M, $24.95
What is it: Shoulders and hips are well balanced, while waist is of a relatively small shape.
Avoid: Oversized sweaters as you’ll drown the figure that you’re blessed with!
Go for: Sweaters that are narrower at the waist line as they will emphasize your curves. Otherwise, those that are cinched at the waist with a belt will be perfect.
ALSO READ: HERE’S YOUR ULTIMATE GUIDE TO THE DIFFERENT BODY TYPES (AND HOW TO DRESS THEM)
