It's Sweater Weather!

That's right: It's sweater weather. Time to break out all those cozy cardigans and pullovers and cowl necks from last year.

But wait - last year's sweaters are so...2015. Not to mention that if you're anything like me, a lot of last year's sweaters were actually from 2014...or 2013...or 2003... So let's go sweater shopping!! Here are some of my favorite - and affordable (mostly) - sweaters for the upcoming cold weather season.

Long Sweaters

Perfect for pairing with leggings or skinny jeans and tall boots, long sweaters can be casual or dressy, making an easy transition from work to relaxation.

This beautiful Pointelle sweater in Majolica Blue is $38 at Dress Barn. The wide-shouldered draped collar is soft and feminine, and has an open weave pattern that matches the cuffs. The slim, clingy line are long and elegant, and the deep color is flattering on just about anyone.

If you prefer a more figure-forgiving flare to your long sweaters, this Pointelle sweater by Style & Co. is $45 at Macy's, and is available in several colors. The V-neck has a pretty lacing detail and the sleeves are gently flared. A looser, more feminine style that still pairs well with leggings, but also with more conventionally fitted pants and jeans.

If you're looking for simple and soft, and don't mind paying a higher price, this $79 ultrasoft jade tunic from J. Jill is for you. With a softly curved v-neck and patch pockets, this lightweight but cozy sweater is perfect for the office or running errands.

Long cardigan

I love the recent trend of long cardigans, including solid colors, prints, and interesting weaves, and in every weight from thick and warm to lightweight openwork. Throw it over an old outfit and you have a completely new look!

This basic black and white long cardigan from H&M is an easy and inexpensive wardrobe addition for only $20. Toss it over a tee and jeans or over a pencil skirt to convert a warm-weather outfit into a cool-weather one.

If you're looking to add pizzazz and style more than warmth, try this open weave striped cardigan from Dress Barn for $24. It's a bit see-through, so it'll show your cute tank or top underneath, and the neutral and white color palette will go with just about everything in your wardrobe.

If you want something a little more funky and unusual, go with this dip dye duster from JC Penney for $25. Available in grey/black and maroon/black, it'll add some artistic flair to your usual outfits.

If you want to get REALLY funky, this gorgeous ethnic print cardigan from J. Jill is worth the $149 price tag. Its high neck, knee length, and deep pockets will keep you toasty warm even in the coolest weather, and the rich color and pattern will add interest to the dullest outfit. It can even be worn as a outside coat instead of an indoor sweater.

Cashmere

Nothing feels as good as cashmere against your skin. So if you're looking to invest in a good quality, high-end cashmere sweater, here are a few options to consider.

The classic crewneck cardigan has been in style for the past 60 years and likely will be for the next 60, so it's a good investment. This cashmere version, available from JC Penney for a cool $119, will be a timeless addition to your work wardrobe.

If you're looking for a more contemporary style, this beautiful cashmere v-neck tunic from J. Jill is $80. It's available in peacock, cranberry, and oatmeal heather, and features a broad v-neck and button-up side slits.

For a more casual but still classic look, take a peek at Lands End's fitted v-neck ribbed cashmere sweater. At only $39, you can choose several of the half dozen available colors.

Striped Sweaters

There's something I love about striped sweaters - they add visual interest to what can be a boring wardrobe staple. Whether all neutral or a mixture of bright colors, they can pep up any dull autumn outfit.

JC Penney's $18 essential crewneck sweater is available in solids, but the turquoise and the coral striped versions caught my eye. They can be worn alone or over a long-sleeved t-shirt in a coordinating or contrasting color.

Add some texture to your stripes with this mixed-yarn sweater from J. Jill for $40. A variety of yarns and stitch types add visual interest and warmth. Easy to dress up with an elegant long necklace and a pencil skirt or to dress down with skinny jeans and a fringed scarf, this sweater is a great addition to any fall wardrobe.

If you want to add lots of cheerful color to your look, this $45 multi-colored striped sweater from JC Penney is just the thing. Slightly fitted, with a simple round neck and long sleeves, this sweater will flatter any figure and add pep to any wardrobe.


So go shopping, pick up some bargains, stretch your existing wardrobe, and stay cozy out there. Because it's sweater weather!