Buying Men’s Sweater Checklist & Measurements

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CHECKLIST: HOW TO BUY A SWEATER

Sweater Buying Guide

_____Step 1: Figure Your Size

If you already know a basic size that works for you (S, M, L, etc.), you're done here. Skip to Step 2. If not, use the measurements and the chart below for a best estimate of the size that will work for you:

_____Measure your chest by wrapping a tape measure all the way around your torso, just beneath the armpits. Record the measurement to the nearest 1/4″.

_____Measure your sleeve length from your natural shoulder to the place where your thumb meets your wrist. Record the measurement to the nearest 1/4″.

_____Measure your neck all the way around, just above the collarbone and shoulders. Record the measurement to the nearest 1/4″

Compare your measurements to the following table. It may be necessary to try on multiple styles and experiment with different brands if you fall right on the border of two sizes, or if some of your measurements fall into different sizes.

_____Step 2: Identify the Sweater You Want

_____Select a cut/style:
o Full cardigan — front opens, with either button or zipper closure
o Half-cardigan — front opens from the neck to mid-chest
o Crewneck — classic style; solid to the neck with a round crew collar
o Turtleneck — soft, folded-over collar that covers the neck
o V-neck — open V-shape in front (frames neckties well)
o Sweater-vest — sleeveless version (usually crewneck or V-neck)

_____Select a material/weave:
o Raw wool — heavy, coarse, and very warm
o Cable-knit wool — thick, warm; bumpy texture and decorative patterns
o Cashmere — light and thin but still insulating
o Cotton — thinner, lighter, and not as warm; easier to clean than wool

_____Select a color and pattern:
o Dark solids — most versatile; easy to mix and match
o Bright solids — cheerful winter wear
o Argyle — classic diamond pattern
o Cables/knotwork — traditional decorative form; “folk-art” style
o Ski sweaters — snowflakes and other winter motifs; only for sporting use

_____Step 3: Pick Your Source

_____Select a shop:
o Online — quick and easy, but may require multiple returns for sizing
o Department stores — low prices, but limited selection and quality
o Sporting/outdoors catalogs — often higher quality products; good prices possible with sales or coupons
o Designer boutiques — most stylish selection; highest prices

_____Step 4: Go Shopping

_____Head to the store you picked in Step 3

_____Find the sweaters that fit your style choices (Step 2)

_____Try on the ones in your size, or the ones that match your measurements (Step 1)

Everything that matches your tastes and fits is your selection. If a store doesn't have anything that works, move on — with this checklist, you know exactly what you're looking for, and it won't take long to find it at another store.

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