How to Wear a Shawl Collar Cardigan
Wearing a shawl collar cardigan is ideal for transition weather, and works great in the fall and winter. They are versatile and can be worn for the office and the weekend, and even look great on men when worn right. Pay attention to fit when shopping for your shawl collar cardigan and stray from wearing a necklace or substantial earrings, since you already have a nice frame for your face thanks to the collar on the cardigan.
Instructions
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How to Wear a Shawl Collar Cardigan
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Find the right fit. Shawl collar cardigans are incredibly easy to wear as long as you have the right fit. The key is to make sure the cardigan fits you well in the bust and waist. When trying on, make sure no buttons or snaps pull, which can be especially tricky for busty women. Lift your arms to make sure no tummy shows even when reaching for something. A shawl collar cardigan is a versatile piece, so you want it to fit well to get maximum wear out of it. 3/4 length sleeves work for almost any season, as does a lightweight Merino wool or a cotton and cashmere blend sweater.
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Don a long shawl collar cardigan. Long shawl collar cardigans sweep under the bum and look great belted. They can work in the office, but look best on the weekend or while running errands. Rich colors like navy, red and purple are a fast, easy way to pull together a look without much effort. Throw a long shawl collar cardigan on with a tank or fitted t-shirt, dark skinny jeans and ballet flats for a quick look that's stylish for hitting the market or the bookstore on a whim.
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Wear a standard shawl collar cardigan anywhere. A standard shawl collar cardigan, which hits the hip and is fitted in the bodice can be worn practically anywhere. Colors like brown, gray, and black allow the cardigan to tie back to suiting pieces that you have in your existing wardrobe.
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Wear it at work. A shawl collar cardigan is a good option for the office because it creates a polished look without wearing a full suit. Be sure the cardigan is demure, and does not fit too tight or hit too low at the bust. If you are keeping the shawl collar cardigan on all day at work, you can wear a camisole underneath to give you coverage. If you might remove it, wear a full blouse underneath in a feminine fabric.
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Wear it on the weekend. Shawl collar cardigans give that same put-together vibe outside of the office, so they're a great option for weekend dates that aren't too casual. A date, brunch with friends, or trip to meet the in-laws are opportunities to wear your shawl collar cardigan. You can wear one over a simple sleeveless dress with a kitten heel if you need to be dressed up, or take a casual chic approach by wearing the cardigan over a long tank paired with twill capri pants and a closed toe pair of flats.
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Men should try shawl collar cardigans. While not always a popular choice among men, the look can be done. Shawl collar cardigans are among the fall and winter selections at retailers like Banana Republic and J.Crew for both men and women. Men should keep the shawl collar cardigans reserved for business casual offices and the weekend. Since the cardigan boasts a collar, a long sleeved t-shirt or lightweight v-neck sweater work well, along with khakis or twill pants and loafers or boots.
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