Fall weather brings back variety of sweater styles

Gabriella Bower, Staff Writer

It is the most wonderful time of the year: sweater season. The basic pullovers and cardigans are here, but there are also several new sweater trends making their mark this season. With ponchos, blanket cardigans, exaggerated turtlenecks, sweater dresses, Fair Isle prints and shoulder-to-ankle sweaters, there will surely be a style for everyone to try.

Ponchos are on the rise with the biggest comeback. Whether they are paired with skinny jeans and boots for ease or with wide-legged trousers for a complete retro vibe, ponchos are versatile and provide warmth against the city wind.

The boho blanket graced the Fall 2014 Burberry Prorsum runway. While the Burberry monogrammed blanket is priced at around $1,300 — well above the average college student’s budget — Urban Outfitters and Nordstrom offer more affordable options. This style is perfect for the transitional weather when wearing a coat is too warm, but wearing just a top is not warm enough.

Turtlenecks are not just for your school’s librarian. This season’s new trend of the exaggerated turtleneck, is both mod and classy. When paired with a boyfriend jean, skinny pant or layered under a light jacket, it exudes an air of effortless chic.

Sweater dresses are an oldie but a goodie. Long-sleeved, short-sleeved or quarter length, they are a classic option for going to class or heading to brunch with friends. Tights are the obvious option to complete the look, but over-the-knee socks and a tall boot update the otherwise traditional fall sweater dress.

Fair Isle prints, commonly seen on the stereotypical “ugly sweaters,” are always a must-have. Whether on a pullover, a chunky cardigan, a poncho, a boho blanket or a turtleneck, the Fair Isle print is a necessity in any wardrobe.

It is also important to consider that, as the temperature starts to drop, sweater styles with this print tend to be exceptionally warm.

Finally, the shoulder-to-ankle sweater is a new trend that will certainly make a statement. Keep everything else in the ensemble a tighter fit so the sweater can take center stage, and complete the look with a pair of short boots and a topknot.

While there are myriad sweater styles, these versatile and stylish pieces should be top priority when shopping for a fall wardrobe. Sweater weather is finally here and it is better than ever.

A version of this article appeared in the Nov. 5, 2014 print edition. Email Gabriella Bower at [email protected].