The darlings of my sweater drawers? Cowl neck sweaters create illusions, chic and romance!
Sweaters are a main staple in my wardrobe choices. I love them all! Now that fall is just around the corner, it's time to get them out of storage and back on the shelves in my closet. There are turtlenecks, V-necks, boleros, crew necks and cardigans in a plentiful supply. But my favorites are the classy cowl neck sweaters. The cowl neck shape might best be described as a lazy turtleneck, with a larger than usual draped neckline, forming the cowl.
Cowl neck sweaters lend themselves to creating fashion illusions, too. For example, if you've got narrow shoulders and would like to add a bit of width to your silhouette, arrange the cowl so that it touches, or approaches, your shoulders. If your neck is shorter than you'd like, pull the cowl down in the center, simulating a soft 'V', which allows you to show off a nice pendant worn underneath, further lengthening the appearance of your neck. If you're wearing a layered look, with a blouse underneath, a contrasting color adds fashion points. Should you become too warm indoors, you can always take the sweater off and still look stylish. Here's another elegant look you can create with cowl neck sweaters: team up a soft pink sweater, arranging the cowl in the soft V, then pair with a slim pair of black dress pants and black pumps. You'll look taller and will doubtless garner some second looks from the male population.
Some sweaters with a cowl neck are loose and long. These are quite comfortable and chic, IMHO ;). These can be worn 'as is', but you can also add some zip to your outfit by belting the sweater for any number of looks and occasions. A gold metallic belt goes to dinner or the theatre. An elasticized fabric belt with a rainbow pattern looks good at the office, at lunch or any casual errand. The belting technique is especially good for those of you with slim waistlines.
You can also use jewelry pins as accent pieces on the cowl neck sweater, placing the pin at either the center of the V, or to perch near the top of the shoulder on just one side for an asymmetrical look that's an eye-catcher.
To my taste, the cowl neck design in sweaters is a masterpiece of simplicity, which is one reason it's so versatile a garment. For this reason, I tend to buy cowl neck sweaters in a solid color, so there's nothing to detract from the design, or make it look too 'busy'.
As for materials, these sweaters run the gamut, from cashmere to angora to more roughly woven yarns. If you can only afford one cowl neck sweater at least right now go with a color and material that will prove most versatile in your current wardrobe.
I'll warn you: cowl neck sweaters can be addictive! I doubt you'll stop with just one of these fashion chameleons.