4 Sweater Styles That Are Never Worth Buying, No Matter How Cheap They Are: A Guide to Avoiding Fashion Faux Pas

13 January, 2025

As winter approaches, it’s tempting to stock up on sweaters, but many people end up buying ones they only wear once or not at all. This is often due to mistakes made during the purchasing process. Here are 4 types of sweaters that may not be worth the investment as they can be trendy, hard to style, and not very versatile.

1. Cable-knit Sweaters

Cable-knit sweaters have a classic look that captures attention. They resemble the sweaters often handmade by grandmothers and mothers. However, despite their eye-catching appearance, they can be unflattering and make the wearer appear larger. If you have a fuller figure, a cable-knit sweater will only accentuate that.

Cable-knit sweaters can make one appear larger than they are.

Suggestion: Sweaters with Subtle Cable-knit Details

If you’re fond of the classic cable-knit pattern, opt for sweaters with subtle cable-knit details. These sweaters have a basic overall design but feature cable-knit elements that not only ensure a slimming effect for the upper body but also provide the classic look you desire.

Keep cable-knit details minimal to maintain a slimmer silhouette.

2. Event-specific Sweaters

Some sweaters are designed with specific events in mind, such as Christmas, New Year, or to showcase a designer’s unique fashion perspective. While these sweaters can make a bold statement, they often lack versatility and are challenging to style due to their prominent colors or intricate details.

Event-specific sweaters tend to be worn sparingly and are hard to style due to their standout features.

Suggestion: Opt for Everyday Sweaters

To avoid buying a sweater that you’ll only wear once, consider investing in everyday sweaters with simple designs and styles. These are more versatile and easier to incorporate into your wardrobe.

Colorful, basic sweaters like cardigans can be layered and styled in various ways.

3. Turtleneck Sweaters

Turtleneck sweaters are popular in winter and can be worn under or over other garments. A basic turtleneck can go with any jacket in your closet. However, turtlenecks can be unflattering, especially for those with short necks, as they tend to emphasize the head and make it appear larger.

High turtlenecks can accentuate a short neck and make the head appear larger.

Suggestion: Opt for Lower Turtlenecks

Instead of avoiding turtlenecks altogether, look for ones with lower necklines. A turtleneck that sits just below the chin and slightly loose, exposing a bit of the neck, can flatter those with short necks. This way, you can style your outfits confidently without worrying about any fashion faux pas.

A 3-centimeter turtleneck provides warmth while maintaining a flattering open neckline.

4. Shedding Fluffy Sweaters

Fluffy sweaters are appealing due to their soft and cozy texture. However, they tend to shed, which not only makes the inner layer of clothing look cheap but also requires more time and effort to care for.

Fluffy sweaters may feel nice, but lower-quality ones tend to shed and stick to other garments.

Suggestion: Choose the Right Sweater Fabric

When checking the fabric content, look for natural fiber blends as they offer both comfort and warmth. Avoid fabrics like polyester and acrylic, which are prone to pilling. If possible, invest in cashmere sweaters for a luxurious, soft, and warm option.