A Good Sweater is Hard to Find: 6 Sweater Shopping Rules You Need to Know

There is an old adage that says a good man is hard to find, but I reckon finding a good sweater is equally as difficult! For the past few months, I've been on a mission to find a few quality sweaters. I scoured store after store in attempt to find decent sweaters that don't cost an arm and a leg. Often I came up empty, but the process itself was fruitful. It led me to create a sweater purchase checklist (found below) that I can now share with Bon Vivant +a Budget readers like yourself!

Don't be a label whore... Be a label nerd instead and read the labels for fabric content. Avoid acrylic sweaters. Although they are often on sale for super cheap, they are no real bargain. Acrylics don't keep you warm, lose their shape easily, and the material pills and will look shabby (not chic) in no time. Natural fabrics like wool, alpaca and mohair are worth the investment since they keep you warm and last for years. Cotton isn't as warm, but it is a good quality, durable fabric that you can machine wash

Cop a feel... If the material is scratchy or rough-feeling, it will feel that same way against your skin when you wear it.

Be a plain Jane... Sweaters that lack embellishment are the most versatile and easiest to care for. Dry cleaning can be an expensive pain in your arse. You can always add scarves and statement necklaces to dress your sweaters up.

Strip... Head to the fitting room and try that sweater on. Too many times I've been lazy and didn't try clothes on before I bought them only to get home and find the sleeves are too short, my stomach is fully exposed and once a neckline I couldn't even get over my head.

Be alert... Are there any stray threads hanging around? loose buttons, damaged zippers? small holes? If so, put the sweater down and walk away. The damage will just get worse with wear.


Know your body... Consider which necklines are flattering for your shape. The v-neck and scoopneck are both universally flattering; cowl-necks are great for women with large busts. Crewnecks are best for tall women with long necks, as are turtlenecks. Boatnecks look best on those with narrow shoulders.


Do you have any sweater buying tips? Leave your comments below.

xX Helene