The Ultimate Guide To Buy and Style Jackets and Sweaters for Women

Jackets and sweaters are among the many winter essentials you need during the cold months.

You have a plethora of options to choose from for your wardrobe. I’ll guide you through what and how you can buy amd stye your jackets and sweaters.

Things to Look For in Your Jackets and Sweaters

You should consider a few things when you’re out buying winter jackets and sweaters. Let’s first look at jackets then move to sweaters.

Jackets

Buying the perfect winter jacket isn’t something you can pull off easily.

If you don’t pick well, you’ll end up with something that looks good but doesn’t keep you warm. And that’s not a good place to be in.

You shouldn’t simply buy something that catches your eye, either. Keep your impulse in the backseat and let your thinking brain take over. Here are the pointers to help you buy something that will be warm and practical.

Insulation

The type of insulation is a vital aspect when you buy your winter jackets. The insulation type is also the prime determinant of the cost.

Good quality insulation usually comes at a higher price. Insulation traps your body warmth within the jacket and keeps you warm.

Different types of Jackets use different insulation depending on their purpose. There are two insulation types available for winter jackets –

Synthetic Insulation

The synthetic type of insulation uses synthetic fibres to keep you warm. With synthetic insulation, the more material the material, the more warmth you get.

But, it ends up making the jacket bulky for regular use. Synthetic options are often weatherproof and less expensive.

Down Insulation

This type uses natural feathers from ducks or geese as an insulation material. It has stitched lines or baffles to keep the feathers in position.

They are called down jackets because of the material used. You get a better weight-to-warmth ratio with down jackets. Hence they are lightweight yet practical.

They’re durable but a more expensive option. One of the downsides of this jacket is that it can’t handle damp weather very well.

Fill Power

This term refers to the measurement of the fibre’s loft or puffiness. The loft or the puff of fibre traps air within the material. It helps with the insulation the jacket provides. Fill power could range between 300- 900.

The higher it is, the warmer the jacket is. The number indicates the amount of loft or puffiness.

Down jackets provide higher fill power than synthetic ones. It owes to the fact that the down’s natural fibres are fluffier.

Synthetic jackets need a fluffier material to achieve the same fill power level as down. But this also adds up to their weight. And as I mentioned, down jackets are also lightweight.

Material

Your jacket’s fabric is subjective to the climate you’re in. If you’re in a damp climate, nylon and polyester will work. If it’s dry cold weather, wool or down would be ideal.

Whatever you choose, it should be comfortable enough for the entire day. Another exciting element is the fur lining on a few hoods and cuffs. It adds up to the warmth and beauty of the jacket.

Waterproofing

If you experience snowfall or rainy weather, your jacket’s waterproof ability is crucial. A water-repellent coating in the outer shell will save you on an unbearable day.

But it’s less effective against extreme wet weather. While buying, ensure that the outer layer is breathable. Or else it could cause discomfort due to vapour and sweat.

Fit for Your Body Type

Winter jackets should let air pockets build inside the jacket. For your jacket’s insulation to work, you need enough air space within the material.

If it’s too snug around the armpit or other areas, it’ll compress the insulating material. It won’t provide proper insulation.

So these are some of the factors to look into while buying winter jackets.

Sweaters

As we’re talking about jackets and sweaters, now let’s see how to buy sweaters. A sweater is a must for every individual’s winter wardrobe. So that’s something you should have irrespective of the weather conditions during winter.

Let’s look at some basics you should consider while buying a sweater in winter.

Fabrics

Wool and cashmere are among your best options. They’re breathable and have longevity. Merino wool is one of the best options to avoid pilling. Cotton is another excellent pick if you wish for something breathable and easy to look after.

You should also check the composition. For example, 100% acrylic will keep you toasty. But if the weather turns warm, you’ll be left feeling too hot. After all, it’s not very breathable.

You should choose natural fabrics, so you don’t feel hot with layers. Look out for polyester and cotton combos that last for multiple wears.

Washing Instructions

Apparently, knitwear should be washed as minimally as possible. It’s always nice to get your sweaters machine washed on a gentle cycle.

Some might need dry cleaning or a specific detergent to maintain shape, though.

Necklines for Your Wardrobe

You should always be aware of what you like and have. If a crewneck suits your style and wardrobe, go ahead and buy them. Some of you might prefer v-necks or turtlenecks instead. But always pick a neckline that is versatile and lasts long.

Neutral Knits

Neutral tones are precious in the winter season. It might be a common choice, but it’s good to keep one in that wardrobe. It could be white, black or grey too.

It’s a lovely piece to have as it can fit with multiple options in your collection. Hence it offers you an array of diverse looks. And also, you can rely on neutral hues most often.

Colourful Knits

Other than neutrals, you should experiment with different colours as well. A bright cobalt blue, a pink or a demure pastel could be something worth trying.

Sombre hues bring some colour into an otherwise dark and neutral wardrobe.

Textured Knits

Textures always add some interest to an outfit and take it to the next level.

Designer Sweatshirt

Wouldn’t you love a sweatshirt that’s part of some excellent merchandise? It could be a show you watch or some theme that suits you.

Usually, these designer sweatshirts look great with a pair of jeans. It isn’t necessary but if you want to try one, go ahead. You can always look to add one such piece to your collection.

A Matching Set

You can also go for a matching set as loungewear. A co-ord tracksuit would be useful here.

Ideas to Style Your Jackets and Sweatersin in Winter

Your jackets and sweaters can help you create some lovely looks this winter. But it’s up to you to decide how to style them. There are some simple methods to assemble some fantastic outfits.

So let’s take a look at some of your options.

Jackets

Winter jackets are your outermost layer in the winter layering system. Even though it’s essential, you can choose to make it look attractive.

You have a lovely blend of function and fashion at your disposal. So make the most of it if you live in temperatures that need jackets.

Jackets and sweaters are pretty warm and comfortable. But they look great on your outfits too. So first, let’s look at the types of jackets in the market.

Here are some fantastic options for this winter season.

Embellished Jackets

Ladies, you might have dreamt of buying an embellished jacket. They are statement pieces which you should style well. An embroidered jacket might appear challenging to wear. But keep things simple, and everything would look simple.

It’s best to wear an embellished jacket with a single-tone outfit. This combo will let you stand out in a crowd as well. You could also wear a plain black blouse and trousers. Complete the look with heels or sneakers.

Oversized Puffer Jackets

Oversized puffers add a sporty vibe to any look. The best part is the warmth of these jackets. These puffers are stylish, catchy and everything fashionable

A puffer jacket with a body-hugging midi or a knit co-ord set looks chic. You could also try a crop top under your puffer jacket. Finally, pick knee-high boots for your footwear. And yes, don’t forget to put on those cool shades.

For an everyday look, wear a blouse with tight pants or leggings. And, of course, sneakers or boots to round it off.

Shearling jacket With Blazer and Jeans

A shearling jacket and blazer combo is a classy way to layer in winter. Complete the look with pants or skirts in the same colour family. You could also wear denims to offset the tonal vibes.

Puffer Jacket with Cargo Pants

Puffer jackets have a baggy silhouette, proving to be a solid option this winter. It comes with padded insulation and several layering possibilities.

You can achieve teh cool-girl style with cargo pants. But you could swap them with leggings or sweats.

It’s completely up to your preferences and plans. Chunky footwear is a welcome boost for this outfit.

Shacket with Wide-Leg Pants and Balaclava

Plaid shackets could be a cool-girl staple for winter. Keep your shacket zipped up for max warmth. A knit balaclava would be something unusual as an accessory for this outfit. But it’s the perfect finishing touch to look cool in cool temperatures.

Sweaters

Sweaters might be one of the most practical pieces of winter wear. But you can make this simple piece look stunning too. All you need is suitable accessories and items with it.

Here are some ways you could style your sweaters in winter. Let’s have a look.

1. Throw on a scarf

Scarves are such functional pieces that you might forget their contribution to winter fashion. You can layer a scarf over most outfits from your cold-weather wardrobe. It works well with sweaters too.

You might wear the same sweater for the third time in a week. But you have the opportunity to make it look new each time. A scarf will help you out with this.

Pick some chunky, cable-knit ones or blanket scarves when you go shopping this winter. Patterns would look fabulous on your scarves too. Winter wear would love patterns on most of its pieces. It adds a catchy element to an otherwise simple look.

So, take that scarf and pair it along with jeans and sneakers. If you want some fantastic photographs, bring out the shades too. But ensure that you mix up the colours well.

2. Layer it over a button-down shirt

If you want a classic styling option, this one’s waiting for you. It will look make you appear chic and sophisticated. Wear a white button-down, and layer your sweater over it.

You could opt for a v-neck sweater in this case. You’ll never go wrong with this combination.

It works at parties and in the office too. Pull out the collar and sleeves of your shirt. You could wear it with skinny jeans and sneakers for casual looks.

As for something formal, trust a tie to add some elegance to the outfit. You can also choose trousers or chinos as your bottoms.

3. With a Belt

If you’re wearing an oversized sweater, belts will come in handy. You can pair it along with a skirt or leggings. Cinch it at the waist with a thin belt. Often leather belts are lovely accessories for such outfits.

4. With a Tweed Skirt

You could stylize a sweater with a lovely skirt as well. Don’t be under the impression that skirts won’t fit in your winter collection. They can help you create some chic outfits. You should try out a tweed skirt and see where it takes you.

You need to tuck your sweater into the skirt and layer a jacket over it. You could tie a sleek ponytail and wear pearl studs as well. It’s a thing of beauty for the winter season.

5. With a Gilet

You can put on a gilet over a sweater for a sporty look. It will be useful on colder days in winter. You can style them along with jeans or leggings and sneakers. This combination is pretty versatile. So, wear it for walks or to work.

These are some ways to style your jackets and sweaters in winter.

Conclusion

So now you know what all you can do with jackets and sweaters in winter. There are some enticing outfits awaiting you. But you should have these two in that wardrobe as a priority. They have a lot to offer and are pretty multipurpose in that sense.

So how many jackets and sweaters are you planning to get hold of this season? You should go in for a few to ensure there’s variety in that wardrobe.

This post was written by Kosha team member – Shawn Mathias