ALPHA MALE: Hot Sweaters

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Wednesday, February 15, 2012

Marc Streisand, GoLocalProv Men's Style Expert

A well-fitting sweater is one of the most flattering items a man can wear; Skinny men seem to have a physique in the right sweater… and heavy-set men appear to be in shape.  In addition to keeping you warm, sweaters break up the dress shirt and slack combination worn by almost the entirety of the Rhode Island male business community.  Sweaters add style, personality, and individuality to an outfit through patterns and fabric.  Below are some sweater ideas that will allow you to keep warm and stylish through the winter.
 
A few weeks ago, I travelled to Italy to visit some of the world’s premier sweater designers.  In recent years, technology has changed the sweater by introducing new creations of fabric mixes into the market.  While traditional sweaters were only worn in Rhode Island from November to March, these new blends have extended the sweater-season.  Cashmere and linen mixes are light enough to be worn in summer.  Cashmere and silk mixes are extremely warm, but still remain light and don’t pill like traditional cashmere.  Finally, for the first time, I encountered sweater’s made of yak – very warm and durable.
 
While the fabrics have changed, the 4 fundamental sweater structures have stayed the same.
 
The crewneck has a round collar and is typically worn over a t-shirt.  Crewnecks tend to be casual in nature, and often resemble a sweatshirt.
 
V-neck sweaters are often worn by the man who likes to layer.  The “V” neckline allows men to dress this look up with a shirt or tie during the week, or with a t-shirt for a more casual look on the weekend.
 
Turtlenecks crawl up a man’s neck, often providing a warm solution for a cold Rhode Island day.  These sweaters are often seen on the ski slopes, but can also be seen in the office when worn under a sport coat or even with a suit.
 
Mr. Rogers with his full-button down sweater made the cardigan famous.   In the past, cardigans were often fuddy duddy, but over the past few years, have been reinvented into a very cool piece.  A more modern version of the cardigan, the bomber includes a full zip front.
 
Adding to the above, the man of style has a few distinguished variations in his wardrobe.  The shawl color is a combination of the V-neck and cardigan.  The stylish neck line allows the wearer to layer the sweater over a shirt and tie, open collared shirt, and even elegants under a sport coat.  The zip mock neck and the polo sweaters are versatile enough to be worn with jeans or dressed up.  Finally, make sure to add a variety of colors and patterns to keep things fresh and to showcase individuality.

Marc Streisand is president and owner of Marc Allen Fine Clothiers, and takes the custom clothing business very personally. Having enjoyed a successful career in the clothing industry since 1985, Marc brings his clients extensive specialized experience in menswear. Prior to taking over the Marc Allen store in March 2005, he cultivated his knowledge of luxury male attire in New York and his home state of New Jersey, where he began his vocation at Wallach's Specialty Stores. Nothing gives him greater pleasure, he says, than seeing raw cloth transformed into a custom outfit that can directly impact his customer's lifestyle.

Don't miss Marc Streisand's tips for men on GoLocalTV, fresh every day at 4pm and on demand 24/7, here.

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