Types of Sweater Weather

I have this, except it’s books. Sofa books, dining room table books, bed books, desk books, bath books. My husband calls them my “books nests.”

You must live in Seattle like me!

I’ve had sweaters that are 95% cotton, 5% cashmere, that are extremely soft and not itchy. They’re cozy without being hot. Unfortunately, I wore them out. I don’t know what your budget is, but I do know LL Bean has some. I like cotton sweaters because I can wear them anytime. Wool is too hot for me, and acrylic looks cheap.

Thanks Cynthia! I’m on their site now… Not usually my style, but I’m finding a few cute things and their selection of 100% cotton knit sweaters is great. :) Stay warm!

Yes I cannot wear any wool or cashmere. I’ve had so many people say oh but this one isn’t itchy! Nope super itchy to me haha. My skin breaks out in a red itchy rash. I just wear cotton sweaters only basically.

Hey Naomi! This may be extreme on the price end but I have quite a few items from Eileen Fisher that are beautiful, breathable, and have held up over the last few years. They still look relatively brand new. All of their items are machine washable as well. They have sustainable and eco-friendly practices, and I have yet to see anything that contradicts it. All the items I own I bought on sale which really helped and it seems that things are going on sale faster this year. They also have a “re-sell” program where, instead of throwing out the clothes when they wear out, they want them back – they mend and refurbish them and resell them even cheaper. I have a few pieces I have bought through this program and they still look beautiful, hold up, and you would never tell they are “second hand.”
I personally would rather spend a bit more on something that was ethically and sustainably made and I know will last for a very long time than to buy something that will be ruined in the wash very easily, pill horribly, become itchy, shrink, or is made from synthetic materials.

(Also, full disclosure, I do not make a lot of money (I am in my early thirties with student debt, still in a master’s program, paying for a professional license, and living in a city). I save for everything I buy knowing I will spend a lot but, I have clothes that I’ve had for 5+ years (a few pieces for over 15 years!!) because I purchased quality. It’s so hard, especially in our current economic situation, but I like knowing next year I will not have to replace any of my sweaters. I may only buy one more to add to my collection.)

I hope you are able to find some options that work well for you. I am also open to any other brands other COJ-ers love that don’t fall into the synthetic fibers or cheap fashion.

Thanks for the tip, Eli! I’m happy to spend more, if the fit is great and the quality is worth it. Sustainability is important in so many ways, and I have no problem rewearing something for many years in a row. As a matter of fact – I love starting a new season and finding an old loved item in the closet that I can wear again… It’s like rediscovering an old friend. Unfortunately, many of my friends are itchy, so I’m looking for a few new ones. :) Maybe Eileen can be my friend!