Saturday, January 7, 2012

Style Over 50: Cowl Power


Two years ago, in January, I mentioned to a girlfriend that I’d just bought a cowl neck sweater, drastically reduced in an end-of-season sale. My smart shopper elation was quickly squashed when my friend responded, “Fashion is so done with cowl necks.” I shrugged and said, “Oh, well, I’m not done with them.” And the funny thing is I’m still not done with cowl necks. My sister gave me the Lauren Jeans cowl neck sweater (pictured above) for Christmas and I love it. It's so cozy and warm. If you’re a cowl neck lover, there are lots of online choices, including some currently reduced for end-of-season sales. Take, for instance, this Jones New York Long Sleeve Cowl Neck Sweater, (was $89, now $69.99). But wait! If you are seeing this post before Jan. 8th, 11:59 PM EST, you can get 60% off the original price.

Jones New York Long Sleeve Cowl Neck Sweater,


Here's another JNY with a bit of a discount. Check out the pretty sequin detailing...


Jones New York 3/4 Sleeve Cowl Neck Sweater

Jones New York 3/4 Sleeve Cowl Neck Sweater
(was $119, now $95.20).


MORE COZY COWLS
Many years ago, when the cowl neck style was first popular, there wasn’t much variety in design. Today, the cowl top folds at all different places. Some show a lot of shoulder. Others drape so low, you’ll want to wear a camisole with them. Personally, I think low-draping cowls are extremely feminine and flattering. Take a peek at Soft Joie Estee Sweater ($128) below. But, please, picture it with a straight skirt or normal jeans (rather than the skinny jeans shown--ha!).

The sweater is on the Shopbop site, which has more than 30 styles. Click on the picture, which will take you the to Shopbop site. Then go to sweaters and click on "cowl necks."


Soft Joie Estee Sweater

I also love this Jones New York Tunic Sweater, ($89) with the longer length and multicolor yarn. It's not on sale, but is well-priced, I think.

Jones New York Tunic Sweater,



Even though this Anne Klein Cowl Neck Pointelle Pullover, Ships 12/15 (White) ($99) is not on sale, I had to share it. I think it's ultra-feminine.

Anne Klein Cowl Neck Pointelle Pullover, Ships 12/15 (White)


And, finally, you can't beat this Evan Picone Embellished Dolman Sleeve Sweater (was $59, now $41.30) for value.


Evan Picone Embellished Dolman Sleeve Sweater



SPRING COWLS
Are you "done" with winter and winter sales? Some online sites have introduced new cowl neck sweaters to take you into early spring. Jones New York, for instance, has a bunch of pretty styles, including the Jones New York Sleeveless Cowl Neck Sweater, ($119) below. I've gotten feedback from over 50 women who tell me they are "done" with short sleeves. And I understand completely. But I see a lot of over 50 women whose arms look fine, in my humble opinion. And when they are in a pretty sleeveless garment, I'm focused on the garment, not their arms. I think other people are, too. What do you think?

Jones New York Sleeveless Cowl Neck Sweater,