A Quick Guide To Cool Weather Tops

I'm in the process of revising one ebook, drafting a second, and outlining a third. Instead of sugarplums dancing in my head this season, I'll have shoes, suits, and shearling - oh my! I'll be releasing the revised ebook next week, and my first new ebook in ages in early December. Stay tuned --

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A Quick Guide To Cool Weather Tops

As cool weather settles into the Northern Hemisphere, the long sleeve tops come out. From t-shirts and turtlenecks to cashmere and wools, the cool weather top parade has begun.

Not without its problems, however.

All tops don't work well on all body types. Some people get swallowed up in the necklines. Others look like they're all breast. Still others look like they've suddenly added twenty pounds, while some look gangly and awkward.

Are you one of them?

Are you walking around in your most flattering styles, or are you creating problems for yourself with these all-too-common scenarios?

See for yourself as we run down the pros and cons of these five popular styles:

1. Turtleneck

PROS: One of the most versatile tops around, the turtleneck works beautifully on its own or layered under v-necks, vests, or jackets. Depending on the fabric, it can be worn with everything from jeans to suits to evening attire.

CONS: Proper fit is essential. If it's too loose it looks sloppy and if it's too tight it reveals every bump, lump, and roll.

What's more, the double layer at the neck can get bunched up and be uncomfortable for people with short or thick necks. Try a mock turtleneck instead, or skip the fabric on the neck altogether and opt for a scooped neckline instead.

Overstock.com

2. Long Sleeved Tee

PROS: Like the turtleneck, the long-sleeved tee can be worn on its own or layered with other pieces. Make it a staple in your wardrobe and wear it with everything.

CONS: Watch the neckline. If you have a round face, short neck, or large bust, opt for a scooped or v-shaped neckline to elongate the neck and minimize the bust. If you have an oblong face, long neck, or small bust, opt for a crew neck or jewel neck to shorten and add curves.

Newport-News.com

V-neck

Jewel neck tee
Jewel neck

3. Chunky Knit (or Wool)

PROS: Nothing screams "warm and toasty" like a chunky knit sweater. Worn over a camisole or long sleeved tee, it will keep you warm on the very coldest of days.

CONS: Bulky fabrics add bulk to your body, so proceed with caution. If you're overweight and tend to carry your excess pounds in your torso, this style will make you look even heavier, particularly if it's in a light color. Try a softer, more pliable fabric instead.

Bulky sweaters also take up lots of room in a suitcase. If you'll be traveling and want to wear a chunky sweater, wear it while you're in the plane or car, take a larger suitcase, or leave it at home.

Bluefly.com

4. Cowl Necks

PROS: A popular style in the 1970's, cowl necks have made a comeback and are available in a variety of fabrics. The exaggerated neckline adds interest and draws focus to the face and can be a nice alternative to blouses or tees when worn with suits or under jackets.

CONS: Because of all the extra material right at the throat, this style can be a bit overwhelming for women with short or heavy necks. It also calls attention to the bustline, which is nice if you're demurely endowed but overpowering if you're more generously blessed.

Chadwicks.com

5. Twin Set

PROS: The matching shell and cardigan is a classic combination that can take you from the ballpark to the opera -- and just about anywhere in between - in great style, depending on the fabric. Grab a few sets and wear them often.

CONS: Proper fit is essential. It should be neither too tight nor too loose, and the cardigan sleeve should cover the wrist bone unless it's a three-quarter-length sleeve.

Also, while cashmere and angora can be sumptuous fabrics for a twin set, they can also spell trouble for allergy suffers. If you want luxury but are allergic to animal fibers, try a fine gauge knit instead.

Randolph Duke
HSN.com

Great tops can create a fabulous look as long as they fit well and are a flattering style. If you've been thinking about adding to your collection, pick styles that accentuate your figure using the guidelines given here. If it doesn't make you look great, why buy it? Leave it at the store.

Need some more help finding flattering styles? Download a copy of WARDROBE MAGIC,

http://www.wardrobemagic.com

to see how easy dressing well can be.