It’s far too easy to get the wrong idea that in order to keep clothes in pristine condition, they must be of the highest end fabrics from the most expensive brands. Contrary to popular belief, this is not the case. The most important thing about sweaters is not necessarily what material it is– but how you take care of the material. 

What’s sustainable? 

Granted, most higher-end, natural-fiber sweaters are the most sustainable route, but so are thrifted and secondhand materials. Many of these secondhand materials are likely to be polyester, nylon, or another synthetic weave. 

By nature, materials like polyester aren’t sustainable, and shouldn’t be purchased new if  avoidable. However, considering the rise of thrift and consignment stores, many polyester-like items are found dangling off the never-ending clothing racks. Even if you do choose to newly purchase a polymer weave garment, there are ways to promote the longevity of the piece. 

All-natural fibers will always be the winners in our book, and the most sustainable option long-term, but if you take the time and energy to give your synthetic fibers the proper care, they just might last you nearly as long. 

What is proper care?

First and foremost, you should always treat your garments with care! It doesn’t matter what material the piece is composed of; you should treat each clothing item as if it were of the highest-end material and design. Sweaters are the most difficult pieces to take care of, generally, because of the delicacy of the materials and the side effects of improper care. Sweaters are prone to shrinkage, pilling, and other natural sweater disasters if not cared for properly (and even sometimes when cared for properly!). 

Proper care consists of the most beneficial washing and drying cycle, coupled with responsible storage methods. 

Washing and Drying

The most effective way to promote healthy sweater care, even amongst synthetic fibers, is to use the right washing and drying methods. 

First, use the right washing cycle! We recommend ALWAYS machine-washing on cold, since warm temperatures induce risk of material shrinkage or color bleeding. A cold cycle also reduces the risk of color fading and keeps your garment in pristine condition. 

Second, you should never, and I mean NEVER, machine-dry your sweaters. This will only damage the fibers, leading to either shrinkage, shedding, or extreme pilling. The more you machine-dry a garment, the more worn-down it becomes over time. As a rule of thumb, the only garments you should consistently machine-dry are socks, undergarments, t-shirts or any underclothing that isn’t worn as an outer layer. Hang-drying is the best option for any clothing item not aforementioned, such as pants, sweaters, blouses, and the like. 

If you’re unsure exactly which cycle to choose for your sweater washing, sometimes the delicate cycle is the best way to go, since the cycle is preset on cold wash and will give your garments a gentler wash than a regular cycle. 

Storage

Whether you’re freshening up your sweaters from storage, storing them away, or simply holding them in your closet, proper sweater storage is just as important for sweater care as your washing and drying methods. When simply storing your sweaters for immediate use, the best method is to fold your sweaters into drawers or some place where they can lay flat. Never hang your sweaters if you want to avoid shoulder bulges from hangers! For more storage tips, read our all-encompassing post here.

Alexa Highsmith

Writing Specialist at Lilly Brush Co.

The post It’s All in the Sweater Care appeared first on Lilly Brush.

We know that finding the perfect sweater can be a daunting task. That’s why we’ve put together a list of the season’s trendiest and most timeless items for your convenience, just in time for holiday shopping! In addition to our collected sweaters, we’ve included an extra item at the end of the post that you didn’t know you needed until now. 

Sustainable Clothing Companies 

Sustainability is finding its way in the fashion industry, and rightfully so. There are still many unsustainable and unethical clothing brands on the market, but in recent years, sustainable brands have stepped up to match them. Everlane is one of the current most sustainable clothing companies out there, with stylish and comfortable clothing. The company is completely transparent about sourcing, materials, and cost, and have some of the best sweaters you’ll ever find: 

• Everlane Oversized Stroopwafel Turtleneck in ReCashmere: This cozy sweater is made from 100% recycled cashmere yarn, making it a sustainable and comfortable wear. Sweaters such as this are investment pieces; it will last many years, and due to its longevity, is worth the price. 

• Everlane Oversized Alpaca Crew: Composed of an alpaca/wool blend, this sweater suits all your wintery needs. The alpaca blend creates a soft, warm material, perfect for going out or staying in. You can shop guilt-free from anything Everlane has to offer, due to the brand’s sustainability and ethical manufacturing. 

Mockneck Turtlenecks 

Mocknecks are essentially halved turtlenecks– they’re lighter weight and can appear more chic, depending on the material. Here are some of this winter’s most stylish mocknecks: 

• Millie Mozart Knit Turtleneck: This 100% cotton sweater is affordable and easy to care for. It comes in four different colors, both neutral and vibrant. 

• Cable-Knit Mockneck: H&M recently created their “Conscious” line, which uses recycled materials to create clothing. This cable-knit mockneck is sustainable as well as stylish. 

Neutrals

Neutrals are in this year– and most likely, for years to come. Neutral tones are classic, chic, and upscale, and are sure to lengthen your wardrobe by many years. 

• H&M Knit Mockneck: Since H&M’s recent movement towards sustainability, many of their clothing items have transitioned to recycled material blends. This sweater’s composition is primarily recycled polyester, and is a perfect neutral taupe for winter. 

• Teddy Wool Blend Crewneck: Whites are neutrals, too, and add a stark contrast to any wardrobe. Wool will keep you warmest during the cold winter months, and with this sweater, you’ll stay warm in style.

• Madewell Windowpane Turtleneck: Caught somewhere in between turtleneck and mock neck, this neutral patterned sweater diverges from the “plain old” neutrals and adds some pizzazz to your neutral collection. 

Cashmere

The majority of people have a hard time investing in cashmere clothing. Typically, cashmere is fairly expensive, driving away the average consumer. However, sometimes the investment is worth the longevity of the piece, since cashmere will last many years when taken care of properly. Other times, cashmere doesn’t have to be as expensive as most prices offer. 

• Everlane Cashmere Raglan Mock Neck: All at once a mock neck, cashmere, and from a sustainable company, this piece is everything you’re looking for this season! Everlane doesn’t always have to be expensive– if you can find them on Nordstrom Rack, their pieces are much more affordable to the average consumer. 

• Madewell Cashmere Shrunken Sweatshirt:  Add some color to your cashmere and choose from Rusted Torch or Sun-Faded Mint. Although this cashmere piece is higher in price, it will last for a long time and will stand the test of time as long as it’s taken care of as advised. 

• (Re)sourced Cashmere Turtleneck Tunic: Composed of 70% recycled cashmere, this sweater is a sustainable turtleneck option. 

The Save Our Sweaters Brush 

The portable, pill-removing Save Our Sweaters Brush by Lilly Brush is a must-have for all your sweater care needs. This brush works on 100% natural fiber materials such as cashmere, wool, cotton, and angora. It is not, however, effective on polyester, nylon, or acrylic. In addition to removing pills, it also removes pet hair from natural fiber garments. This brush is highly recommended for anyone who owns a natural fiber sweater. It will change you and your sweater’s lives! 

Alexa Highsmith

Writing Specialist at Lilly Brush Co.

The post This Winter’s Top Women’s Sweater Picks appeared first on Lilly Brush.