Artistry In Fashion - September 25, 2010 07/30/2010

"Practice what you preach".  After reading my last post you  may have agreed with idea of shopping off-season for sweater deals, but hestitated to purchase a "final sale" item online. I am going to make it easy for Bay Area residents with a booth at Artistry in Fashion, There will be a mirror!


Cañada College 4200 Farm Hill Blvd. Redwood City, CA 94061 September 25, 10am - 5pm.

Save the date!   Check their website to see other purveyors of art to wear clothing, accessories and jewelry.  And yes, we will send you reminders.
"We Dress You in Business Class "












Summer Sweaters 07/13/2010

Summer sweaters can define oxymoron, especially if you consider the traditional fibers of alpaca and cashmere.  Sweaters that would actually provide warmth, look wrong in the summer.  Of course there are feather weight cashmere sweaters that  work when the air-conditioning is too high, but choices are limited in scope and usefulness.  Shawls are a better value.

What is not contradictory about summer sweaters is that they are bargains.  Buying off season is smart. We are offering significantly reduced prices on sweaters now.  Don't miss this opportunity and shop today
for best selection and price.
"We Dress You in Business Class "












What is Designer Clothing? 06/15/2010

Really what's in a name?  The most sought after designer looks, may not look the best on you.  So why do you want them so badly?  Advertising, celebrity endorsements, and peer pressure give prestige brands cache. And of course everyone will know that you spent the big bucks. Or did you?  If you did not buy couture, the "designer" clothing you purchased has the designer's name on it as the result of a licensing agreement, not necessarily because the designer had anything to do with the creation of the garment. Make sure your purchases of designer clothing merit the increased price with better fabric and and fit, and that you are not actually paying more to wear a designer label.


Or, choose to wear garments from local and emerging designers that personally stand behind their labels. Look for one-of-a-kind handbags from Victoria Chulay, gemstome jewelry from Kneckknacks, and cashmere and alpaca sweaters from Hallet Sweater Art on our website.  Sale in progress.




"We Dress You in Business Class "






Tired of Buying the Same Old Thing? 04/02/2010

Aren't you getting a little tired of going into your favorite store and seeing the same  merchandise that is in every other store?  Agreed the economy really hasn't recovered and stores are playing it safe, but is fashion redux at the top of your must have shopping list for the season?  If you want to recycle, you can shop your closet. This is a great opportunity to explore the possiblities from Hallet Sweater Art.  Purchase one of our alpaca or cashmere sweaters, on sale now, and look like you are no longer dressed in the uniforms of the masses. Your friends will admire you as a fashionista.
"We Dress You in Business Class "






Intarsia Knit Floral Shawl

What Is Intarsia Knitting and Why Is It Superior? 03/12/2010

In very simple terms, intarsia knitting is the creation of pattern in a knit by adding colors from bobbins. This method produces a single layer of fabric, unlike fair isle knits where the thread is carried at the back of the fabric, or jacquard knits which are actually wovens. Intarsia knitting is done by hand. It is laborious and time consuming because the ends of each color have to be woven back into the fabric at the end of the knitting process.
The advantage to the consumer is that intarsia knitting allows for unlimited color changes within a pattern so beautiful knits can be created.  Our Floral Shawl is a complicated example of the intarsia technique.  See simpler patterns on sweaters  in our Hallet Sweater Art online shop.

"We Dress You in Business Class "







SOFT GOLD - The Finest Cashmere 02/27/2010

I was at the Atelier Designers Show in NYC last week waiting for an appointment when a gentleman came into the room representing a company selling cashmere. He could not get over the quality and price of my products and wanted to know where I bought them.

That's a trade secret of course, but I would like to share with you that 2 ply, 12 gauge is only meaningful in the context of fiber length and density.

The best cashmere is called Erlangshan cashmere and is well known for its softness, whiteness, fineness and length. In China, this special cashmere is referred to as "soft gold" because it is rare and sold in grams.

"We Dress You in Business Class "











Our Valentine to You 01/29/2010

Through the centuries Valentine's Day has been celebrated with gifts of love. What started as a pagan festival in Rome, with animal sacrifices and fertility rites, was Christianized in the third century by a Father Valentine who secretly wed couples when marriage was banned. Love may be all you need, but Valentine's Day gifts are what makes romance. From simple cards, to flowers, chocolates, expensive dinners and diamonds, there is no boundary to express the sentimental. At Sweater Art, our Valentine to you is red cashmere for $99.

"We Dress You in Business Class "











Divide and Conquer! 01/12/2010

Transform your office look from dated to modern by breaking up your suits.

Read my article in more.com for tips on how to maximize your wardrobe using the strategy of divide and conquer. Business casual dressing relies on pairing separates. Have fun finding combinations that work for you.

Choose statement sweaters to standout with authority.


"We Dress You in Business Class "











GOING GOING GONE! $99 SALE 12/26/2009

Take advantage of our extraordinary prices and buy a luxurious Sweater Art cashmere sweater while supplies last. Really, stock up. The costs of cashmere fiber is going up 30% in 2010. Enhance your wardrobe with fresh new items while prices are slashed. Yes you may have a black cashmere sweater, but take a good look at it. If it shows signs of wear, you need a new one. And ours is so not basic black. The interesting keyhole neckline and ribbed bodice make it stand out from the pack. This sweater will be the work horse of your wardrobe.

"We Dress You in Business Class "













IT'S COLD OUTSIDE - Layer Up! 12/11/2009

Cashmere is a hair. Hollow at the core, this structure traps air and creates insulation providing warmth without bulk and weight. The real bonus is how soft cashmere is next to your skin. So layer up in style. Wear a solid cashmere and coordinate it with one of our alpaca sweater coats or cardigans. They are made to mix and match.
Take advantage of our seasonal sale and save 40%.

"We Dress You in Business Class "













UGLY Holiday Sweaters 12/18/2009

You've seen them, some combination of wreath, stocking, tree, bow, animal print snowmen and sparkles that defines the holiday sweater. Look online under "Ugly Holiday Sweaters"and pick your poison. There are parties to attend where you can win a prize for your "worst of the season."
If you choose sophistication over kitsch, we have red and black cashmere sweaters that you can enjoy during the holidays and when they are over.

"We Dress You in Business Class "













Black Friday: The Struggle Between Good and Luxury Good 11/17/2009

Who is sitting on your shoulders? The angel saying..."Aren't all black wool sweaters pretty much the same?" Or the devil replying " 'fraid not, my naive little friend."

Before you head out for Black Friday shopping, keep this cartoon in mind.

A luxury black cashmere sweater will outlast one that is made of short, cheap fibers. Is the investment in quality worth it to you?

We think so, but to help you make that decision, we are discounting all of our luxurious, quality cashmere sweaters, black and otherwise, to 50% off on Friday, November 27 from 9am - 9pm. Quanitites are limited.

And if you are local, please come to the Concourse Holiday Sample Sale, San Francisco, 635 8th Street, November 28 (10am-5pm) - November 29 (10am -4pm), Booth 420, to purchase samples at unbelievable prices.

"Optical Illusion Sweaters"





Always Have Fun When You Travel 11/05/2009

I just returned from Peru where I spent a week working with my sample team on Sweater Art alpaca designs for 2010. For fun, I took everyone to a "Los Kjarkos" concert, which was enjoyable even if you don't speak a word of Aymara!

And for my personal time off, los caballeros de Paso Peruano and the Marinera dancers of Trujillo were a treat. I thought I was going to a SHOW, and it was a show with the horse, rider, the two dancers, myself, and two other tourists. Once everyone got over the shocking difference between expectation and reality, we laughed and had a great time.

Trujillo is great if you enjoy ruins and ritual sacrifice scenes. Obviously there is nothing new in the world, murder, mayhem and tatoos, too. There was a 1700 year old female mummy whose skin showed tatoos of spiders and serpents.

And Hallet Sweater Art has a fantastic collection for 2010. Still shopping for 2009? Take advantage of our 40% off sale. Quantities are very limited.

"Optical Illusion Sweaters"





The Color of the Season is RED 10/06/2009

If Neiman Marcus says it's so, then maybe we can accept at face value that the color trend for Fall Fashion is RED. The NM website shows items from famous brands in bright lipstick red. They have vests, sweaters, dresses, coats, cuffs, shoes, everything in red. If you own something in this color, now is the time to use it. For Fall red will be so ubiquitous, consider it a neutral. Red isn't your color? A red accessory, red bag or red shoes will update almost any solid colored ensemble. Even if you are not a slave to fashion, bright red shows you have passion.
We always want to offer our advice and a companion product. This week through 10/14, our beautiful red Kandinsky inspired cashmere sweater is 40% off. Buy this versatile sweater and wear it everywhere!

"We Dress You in Business Class"





Sale on Building Blocks for Your Wardrobe 10/02/2009

You open your closet door, walk in or give it a slide, and the results are the same. Your same old clothes! Sometimes selecting your outfit is an effort. But maybe that is because you do not have the building blocks for a successful wardrobe. Certain items are always key and one is the black cashmere sweater. You have one, of course, but maybe it is not current or shows signs of wear. Our black cashmere on sale this weekend for 25% off is sexy and sophisticated. The ribbed bodice and low square neck show your figure without flaunting it. This piece can be dressed up with jewelry or is great with jeans. The narrow sleeves and longer length update this classic sweater. Another building block for your wardrobe is a signature color. Of course that has to be what looks good on you. But an important color this fall is red. Our just right red cashmere sweater with pointelle diagonals that flatter your shape, is also available this weekend at 25% off. And don't forget neutrals as important basics. Our textured silver grey cashmere sweater will be a work horse for you. Review your closet, and edit clothes that do not build around your basics.

"We Dress You in Business Class"





Free Cashmere Scarf - Drawing October 21 9/26/2009

Beautiful for you or for your man. This double sided silver and black cashmere scarf with twisted fringe is great for cold weather. With dimensions 64" x 12" you can twist and turn it all you like and never run out of warmth. The lusterous brushed finish reflects light. What do you need to do to aquire this item? You need to subscribe to our blog. If you are already a subscriber, then you are already entered in the drawing.

"We Dress You in Business Class"













How to Transform Your Classic Business Suits into Business Casual Work Attire 9/20/2009

By definition suits are dressy. And unfortunately there are probably several hanging at the back of your closet that you paid too much for to purge. This article will tell you how to transform your classic suits into acceptable business casual attire that is modern and fun to wear

MIX AND MATCH JACKETS AND SKIRTS: By definition suits are monolithic. When you decide to mix and match jackets and skirts you will double your wardrobe and transform your dated dressy suits into contemporary casual ones.

















TRY LEATHER: As long as your leather jacket is not too heavy or too adorned with studs or zippers, it could be a great topper for skirts or pants at work. Your classic skirts or tailored trousers can be dressed down with a leather jacket, but still look business casual.





















USE SWEATERS: The classic cashmere "twin set" makes a great business casual suited look. Or try a belted cardigan over a white shirt and dark pants. Make a dress look like a casual suit by wearing it with a contrast cardigan sweater.

"We Dress You in Business Class"













How to Buy Sweaters That Fit - ONLINE 9/12/2009

The abundance of "invitation only"on-line timed sales is interesting. Of course everyone is invited, after you give them your e-mail so they can invite you again, because these sites want to sell. And designer merchandise at 70% off? Certainly you are saving, but designer merchandise is so marked up what you are probably getting is fair value. It's a sign of the times, that clothing for fall is already available at huge discounts.

But will your "incredible deal" fit when it arrives? Most of these sites either will not accept returns, or will only give you store credit. And that means you will have to go through the same process all over again. Of course, you can't blame them. The buying and returning habits of shoppers jack up the cost of doing business.

Now I can only speak to you about sweaters because that is my business. And with respect to fit, sweaters are a relatively easy item to purchase on line. All you need to do is to take you favorite sweater out of the drawer and measure it.

Measure at 1" below the armhole for the bust and double it. The bust measurement is key to how a sweater fits. Compare other points of measurements, and if they match your favorite, then your online purchase should fit. Keep in mind that your favorite sweater may have stretched and that sweaters are elastic. So if you really like something, you have a tolerance of at least an inch.

All that said, please preview my cashmere sweaters and shop online in the sale section during my timed sale: September 15, 10am - 2pm Pacific Time.

"We Dress You in Business Class"





How to Look Slimmer by Choosing the Right Clothes 8/29/2009

Every day we wake up to the challenge of what to wear. Even the style savvy person may experience a moment of doubt. Is the outfit appropriate, is it clean, does it fit, does it make me look slimmer? This article will assist in helping you choose clothes that make you look slimmer.

WEAR CLOTHES THAT FIT: Contrary to the current Chico's ad about the style secret of slimming sweaters, I believe that long, oversized tops and slim pants were overdone in the 80's. Today the first step in a slim look is to wear clothes that are the right size, not too loose and definitely not too tight. Don't be concerned about what the tag says as sizes vary among manufacturers. Buy what fits and be objective about what length flatters your body type.

USE OPTICAL ILLUSION WHEN DRESSING: Use optical illusion tricks to look slimmer. A-line shapes are great as well as contrast sleeves and color blocking. The black sleeves against the white body are slimming because they frame the white area making it look smaller. The black graphic camouflages will camouflage the chest area.

USE V NECKS, LONG PANTS, MONOCHROMATIC COLORS, VERTICAL LINES: A neckline where you can use jewelry will distract the eye from your midsection. Longer pants will accentuate your leg length and make you look taller and slimmer. Monochromatic colors are great as well as north/south accessories with vertical lines.

"We Dress You in Business Class"





Brand Yourself with Color for a Job Interview 8/24/2009

In today's job market you need an edge over your competition that is more than just a great resume. You literally want to be "picked" like a product from a shelf . So take hints from product branding and apply them to yourself. The easiest way to do this is to brand yourself with color.

From your resume to your interview outfit, pick a color that defines you and use it as part of your brand. The idea is to use a power color, for example red. However your brand color should both flatter you and be appropriate for your industry. Other good colors are navy, dark green and black.

Pick a symbol in your color that you can use on your correspondence. A red dot, a red square, etc next to your contact details is sufficient. You don't need to hire a branding firm, any geometric recognizable symbol will do. The simpler the better. All follow up or confirming e-mails prior to your actual interview should carry through with this symbol or brand. Use it as part of your signature.

Research the company dress code by calling HR or visiting the site. When you arrive at the interview, make your brand color part of your interview outfit. If you think a red power suit is appropriate then wear it. Or it can be a red cashmere sweater, red career bag, red glasses, red scarf, red shoes, etc. If you choose red, use it conservatively.

Follow through with your business cards. If red is your brand color, then your business cards need to show that. If you are seeking a position with an ad agency, maybe your entire card can be red. If it's a law firm job you are after, possibly just your name would be red or you would choose a burgundy instead.

A personal color will brand you if you use the color consistently. Make sure that you wear the color at all subsquent interviews with the prospective employer and if you get the job continue using the color with your clothing an accessories.

"We Dress You in Business Class"





The Little Black Dress - The Classic Optical Illusion Garment 8/13/2009

The little black dress is the iconic optical illusion statement. Dark, monochromatic, of course you look thin in it. Just think, you normally wear a black cocktail dress in low lights. You are dressed in camouflage!

But thankfully, fashion is not war. We want to be seen, just in a way that flatters us. Monochromatic looks are great, but they don't have to be black. It's still summer so wear a color that looks good on you.

Don't be afraid of white, you will feel cooler in white. Reduce the solid impression of one color by using different textures in that color.

Highlight your best features with well placed accessories that focus the eye where you want it to go. If you have a great cleavage use colored jewelry, great ankles try a contrasting shoe. Clothes are all about how you wear them. Make sure they fit and then walk out into the summer sunshine!

When fall arrives look for our optically slimming cashmere sweaters.

"We Dress You in Business Class"





How to Dress For Your Body Type - The Athlete 8/07/2009

OK so maybe you are not athletic. But you do have a straight up and down shape. Your shoulders and hip measurements are the same and your waist is only slightly less. The new characterization of your type is the H.

Urban lore suggests that high powered jobs have caused your body to react with androgens making you physically stronger, but less curvy. It's hard to believe that about Kate Moss...

But whatever the reason, yours is a model shape and great to dress. Of course you will want to wear fitted clothes, but what you need to do is to add the illusion of curve where you need it.

YOUR CHEST AND TORSO: The addition of curves may start with a padded bra. Choose tops that emphasize the bust you have created, and draw attention to your shape. V necks and cowl necks are good to broaden your upper body and create waist definition. Short fitted jackets, or jackets with peplums will work for you. Blouses with ruffles, bows, gathers, and pockets at the bustline will add chest dimension. If age appropriate, you may want to use empire styles and halter tops. Patterned tops will add feminity and softness.

YOUR WAIST: Add wide belts to create your waistline. To delineate it more, wear tops and bottoms in contrasting colors. Use full skirts and pants that flare to add proportion. Look for garments that have well placed horizontal lines.

LEGS AND TROUSER CHOICES: Show off your great legs in skirts and dresses. Balance your top and trouser choices by wearing fitted tops with flared leg bottoms. Pants that hit below the waist may look best on you, but experiment with higher waisted pants with belts and skinny pants that highlight your curves.

COLOR, FABRICS, DETAILS: You can wear color and prints so use them to your advantage. Complement your skin and hair. Avoid black as it will make you look too slender and undefined. Fabric with texture and shine will add dimension to your shape. If you can find them, look for skirts and dresses with banded hems in darker colors. These will make your waist look smaller. Choose princess lines that add curves.

"We Dress You in Business Class"





How to Dress For Your Body Type - The Hourglass 8/07/2009

Marilyn Monroe in the 1955 movie "The Seven Year Itch" is one of the most iconic images for woman with the hour glass figures. This body type is one of the most interesting. Its popularity has waxed and waned. Remember Scarlett O'Hara being pulled into her corset? Or Rita Hayworth and Sophia Loren? Today we have Beyonce and Kate Winslet.

Folklore suggests that this body type had an evolutionary advantage. Women with 36-24-36 measurements supposedly have greater fertility and their wider hips suggest a body built for child birth.

If you've got it, you might as well flaunt it. My fashion tips for dressing your classic, sexy body type are:

WEAR FITTED CLOTHES: Fitted clothes that define your curves are most desirable. Bias cuts are made for your figure. Suits with short shaped jackets and narrow pencil skirts are also good choices. Dresses in solid colors, or tops and bottoms in the same color, look best on your body type. Try to find tailored shirts with V necks and use chunky jewelry. Look for high waisted trousers and jeans with flared legs.

WEAR BELTS: Highlight your small waist with narrow belts, just don't use the tightest notch.

REMEMBER PROPORTION: The single problem the curvy woman has is possibly looking "too curvy" for today's idealized type which is more athletic. That is for every woman to decide for herself. A few optical illusion tricks applied to dressing will make your figure appear more elongated and balanced:

  • Try to use monochromatic looks.
  • If you are busty, balance your chest with flared or boot cut slacks and biased cut skirts.
  • Move the eye away from your waist with V neck tops and jewelry at the neck.
  • Do not use wide belts.
  • Wear clothes that fit and stay away from adornments that add volume like ruffles, bows, large sleeves, etc.

"We Dress You in Business Class"





How to Dress For Your Body Type - The Pear 8/04/2009

This is the second in a series of articles where we make fashion suggestions for different body types based on using optical illusion garments. Our first article was about the apple shaped woman. In this article we want to talk about the clothing choices that work for the pear shaped woman. This woman generally has hips that are wider than her shoulders.

Our list is not exhaustive but is meant as a guideline. The take away for the pear shaped woman is to emphasize the slimmer areas of her body and move the eye away from the hips.

CHOOSE FITTED TOPS WITH SHOULDER EMPHASIS: To balance your body shape, you want to create proportionality. Tops that broaden your shoulders with a horizontal line, boat necks, or colored yokes are good choices. Emphasize your positive attributes by wearing shaped tops and sweaters in bright colors and prints that attract the eye upward away from the hips. Remember, shaped is not tight. Tight tops will make your hip area look larger. Tops are best when they fall below the waist. Tops with dark panels at the sides are something to look for.

CHOOSE DARKER BOTTOMS: A-line skirts are perfect for your shape as well as low rise trousers with straight or boot cut legs. Skinny jeans and tapered legs will emphasize your hips. Stay away from side pockets and side zippers.

"We Dress You in Business Class"





How to Dress For Your Body Type - The Apple 8/02/2009

Clothing is costume. We want to wear clothes that accentuate our best features and minimize our flaws.

It is all about optical illusion. The first step in this visual deception is to know our body type. Although much has been written about our various body shapes, and they have been given many names, the easiest classification for women is the one that compares us to apples and pears, hourglasses, and boys. Then because there are petite and tall women out there, too, you can understand why there are so many choices available at the store.

We are going to make optically illusion fashion suggestions in a series of articles. In this article we want to talk about the choices that work for the apple figured woman who carries her weight around her waist. Our list is not exhaustive but is meant as a guideline. The take away is to emphasize the slimmer areas of your body and move the eye away from your waistline.

CHOOSE MONOCHROMATIC CLOTHING:

Solid dark colors make you look smaller.

CHOOSE V-NECKS:

V necks are slimming because they force the eye up away from the chest. Exposing too much cleavage brings the eye down towards the center of the body, the area the apple-shaped woman wants to hide.

CHOOSE CHUNKY JEWELRY:

High neck statements focus the eye away from your mid-section.

CHOOSE NARROW PANTS AND SKIRTS:

You will look taller and thinner if you keep the proportions of your clothing correct for your body type. To add verticality, hem your pants and skirts as long as fashionably possible to accentuate your leg length. To keep the tummy flat, purchase bottoms that have side zippers.

CHOOSE VERTICAL LINES:

Closely spaced vertical lines lengthen the torso. Keep this in mind when choosing accessories. Don't ruin your vertical line or monochromatic outfit with a chunky rectangular bag.

CHOOSE A-LINE TOPS:

If you do not have a waist, the best way to disguise it is with A-line shapes that are tighter at the bust and flare away from the body at the waistline.

STAY AWAY FROM:

Double breasted jackets, ruffles, full skirts, belts at the waist, large overall prints, shiny fabrics and fabrics with texture.

"We Dress You in Business Class"





How to Dress Like You're the Boss 7/30/2009

You are the boss so you need to look the part. Your clothes should express your position. The days of demure are done. A powerful image is important to you.

DRESS LIKE YOU ARE THE BOSS:

You should dress better than your subordinates. You make more money and your clothes should reflect that. Wear natural fibers like cashmere, silk, and linen and invest in good leather shoes and career bags. You need to separate yourself from your staff, you are not one of the gang anymore. Your image should be polished and, professional.

WEAR CLOTHING THAT IS AGE APPROPRIATE:

As a female executive you may be older than your staff. Wear what is appropriate for your age group and avoid adopting younger trends.

ESTABLISH YOUR PERSONAL BRAND:

A female executive does not have to dress like she is "one of the boys" Dress for your industry. Be conservative and creative in establishing your personal brand. Acquire your look and stay with it. It is important to keep your hair style and color consistent, nails neutral.

USE ACCENTS:

An accent can become part of your personal brand. Maybe silk scarves are your trademark, or a red briefcase or career bag. Maybe it is your glasses. Think of a signature accessory that you can use or wear daily.

CHOOSE BUSINESS COLORS:

Choose colors that flatter you. If you can, take advantage of strong business colors like dark reds, blues and burgundy rather than the black and grey worn by men. Stay away from soft colors like pinks, lavenders, and light blues.

CHOOSE TAILORED CLOTHING:

Tailored clothing is more powerful than either trendy or feminine styles. Oversized clothing, ruffles, short hemlines and low necklines do not project an image of power

ALWAYS LOOK WELL GROOMED:

Different work environments have different standards for dress and image. However, as the boss, your personal appearance should always be maintained at the highest level. At least from your appearance, you cannot look like you are having a bad day. Your hair should be neat, make-up fresh, and you should make sure your shoes are polished and your clothes pressed. Be prepared by keeping your work attire for work.

"We Dress You in Business Class"





How to Look Like You Lost 5lbs by Wearing Slimming Clothes

We all want to look thinner faster. And although diet and exercise is the way to go, it is a slow process. So in the interim, what's a woman to do?

BUY A BODY SHAPER:

There are many great shapers out there to diminish your flab and make it go somewhere else. If where your body fat goes is not obvious, you are in luck. And, if you don't mind getting in and out of one of these iron maiden shapers, you can look 5lbs thinner in your clothes when you wear one.

WEAR DARK COLORS:

Dark colors make you appear smaller. That's why the classic "little" black dress is a classic. Will wearing black make you look 5lbs thinner? It depends on your body type and the specific dress.

WEAR CLOTHES THAT CREATE OPTICAL ILLUSIONS:

When what you see does not match objective reality, what is created is an optical illusion. Cashmere tops by Sweater Art are optical illusion garments that may make you look like you lost 5lbs. Clothes with color blocking, particularly darker colors at the sides of the garment, will make you look thinner. Clothes with diagonal lines which angle towards the middle of the body are also good choices

TIPS:

1. Shop your closet and try to achieve slimming effects by pairing dark and light colors.

2. Shop stores with a focused desire to find clothes that make you look thin.

3. Shop with a true friend who will kindly tell you what she sees.

4. Starting August 30, shop the Sweater Art online store.





What is a Business Casual Dress Code and How is a Woman to Wear It?

Everyone is talking about work attire, especially business casual. No wonder when the words themselves are an oxymoron. Here you will learn what business casual means and how you can dress accordingly. In an environment where jobs are on the line, what you wear to work has become more important than ever.

DRESS LIKE YOU ARE A MEMBER OF A TEAM. What to wear to work is determined by your work environment. As many employees work in teams, you have to dress as a member of that team. There is always an implied dress code. If you are unsure, observe other successful women where you work, or consult your HR department to understand what is required.

REALIZE THAT "CASUAL" SHOULD NOT BE TAKEN LITERALLY. Your personal level of comfort should not be offensive to your co-workers. Clothes and shoes should be clean, well-maintained and not revealing. Undergarment straps/colors should be hidden.

WEAR CLOTHES THAT FIT. A tailored fit is always appropriate for business. Clothing that is too tight, too loose, too short, too revealing, or has too many layers, ruffles, edges or adornments is not appropriate.

KEEP ACCESSORIES NEUTRAL Closed toe shoes you can walk in, handbags not suitcases, and jewelry that doesn't jangle are all appropriate. Make-up should be natural and perfume left for evening.

ALWAYS ASK YOURSELF "WHERE CAN I WEAR THIS OUTFIT". If you think you can wear it to the beach, a barbecue, or a club, you cannot wear it to work.

SIMPLY STATED YOUR BUSINESS WARDROBE SHOULD BE JUST THAT, CLOTHING THAT IS RESERVED FOR WORK. Always be ready to meet the boss, an important client, or promote your career by dressing appropriately every day.

Remember: "We Dress You in Business Class"



What is Business Casual?

There has been much discussion about work attire, specifically what defines business casual. The words themselves are an oxmoron. How casual can you be at work? Not, too casual. The word is not to be taken literally. Certainly what you wear to work is determined by your own work environment. You have to act as a member of your work team. And while you may not be required to wear a uniform, there is a dress code. In smaller companies it may be implied, but you can certainly observe it by watching other sucessful women where you work. If in doubt, consult your HR department.
Simply stated, your business casual work wardrobe should be just that. Clothing that is reserved for work. If you keep this in mind, your work attire will always be clean, pressed and ready to wear, and you will always be appropriately attired for the challenges of your day.
Remember: "We Dress You in Business Class"





Slimming Sweaters - Colorful Illusions

What makes you look slim? First and foremost, it's clothes that fit you. Bulky, voluminous garments do harm adding to your figure. But that doesn't mean that what you wear should be tight. Both fitted and A-line shapes can have a tailored, business casual appearance.

Our "Zelda" alpaca cardigan is slimming because the use of a darker color at the sides makes the silhouette look narrower. Use colorful illusions like this to mix and match pieces from your own wardrobe. Or contact us to buy the "Zelda" cardigan. Remember: "We Dress You in Business Class"









Read what they are saying about us!

http://parisfashiondesign.com/slimming-sweaters-the-optical-illusion-garment/

Slimming Sweaters - Optical Illusion Tricks

7/17/2009
Optical illusion is all about perceiving visually something that is different from objective reality.
Playing tricks on the eye is something you already do. Applying makeup is an easy to understand example of using color optically to create highlights and shadows to sculpt your cheekbones, or deepen your eyes.
With clothing, darker colors make a women look thinner hence the "little black dress" is classic.
The concept gets more interesting when lines are used to create shape. The inward angles of the lines on the the sweater at the left narrow the body.
We Dress You in Business Class







Slimming Sweaters - Optical Illusions

7/13/2009
Sweater Art is a line of intarsia knit alpaca and cashmere sweaters for the executive woman. We use design and color to fool the eye and camouflage the body. Color theory and graphics help us accentuate the positive through optical illusion. Our sweater shapes show the figure to its advantage. We believe our ideas are "creative solutions" for women 45+ who want to project a powerful corporate image. We Dress You in Business Class












Business Casual - Sweaters in the Summer

7/12/2009
Feel the heat? Work attire during the summer months is often a challenge. We don't go there. At Hallet Sweater Art we want to suggest that summer is a good opportunity to clean and store your luxury fiber sweaters so they will be fresh when fall arrives. Pillow cases are great storage bags as they allow air to circulate and act as a barrier to moth larvae. If you want to use plastic bags, place a piece of tissue paper in the sweater fold to absorb any ambient moisture.




Slimming Sweaters - Dress for Success in Power Career Sweaters

7/6/2009
Yes the 80's are back with those padded shoulders and power suits, but in case you've already done that era, a new alternative for work attire is the power sweater. The advantages soft dressing provide over restrictive jackets are obvious. And, you won't look dated! A less monolithic appearance can still send a powerful message, sometimes more so. Color and graphics make bold statements. Use sweater dressing when you want to be approachable yet make your point. Tailored sweaters with striking intarsia are perfect for presentations, client meetings, and business travel.
At Hallet Sweater Art, "We Dress You in Business Class".








Work Attire - What to Wear To Work When First Impressions Count 6/20/2009

First impressions count. You see this photo and you either laugh, cry, or click on it. Based on my appearance, in 7 seconds or less, you have decided whether or not you want to have anything to do with me!

In the Grasslands of Inner Mongolia, maybe I am a princess and will be treated with great reverence and respect. Anywhere else..... you get my point.

A professional appearance affects whether a woman will be taken seriously, and given new responsibilities, promotions and raises. Imitate your superiors. To dress successfully, stay within the context and requirements of your work environment. Having the correct work attire will impact your professional life.



Work Attire - What Not To Wear 6/05/2009

"What Not To Wear" hosts Stacey and Clinton will tell you with brutal honesty it's important to realize that at work it's just not all about you .

With summer almost here, I understand you lost 5 lbs and want to show off . But, bright colors, halter tops, spaghetti strap dresses and flip flops are not professional work attire unless your place of employment is a pool.

Too casual, too sexy, too anything ruins the polished look you want to project at work. Your professional image does not include distractions.

Dressing for success means tailoring your attire to the job. Career clothes are about your career. Remember, it's your work that is supposed to stand out, not you.




Job Interview? - Wear Clothes that Make You Fit In 6/01/2009 The beleaguered General Motors declared bankruptcy today. What does that mean for you as a job seeker? It means that many more qualified people will be competing with you for fewer jobs.

All things being equal, what may set you apart is your appearance. You only have to watch the successful women on "The View" to know that I don't mean physical beauty.

What I do mean is how your appearance demonstrates that you belong to a specific corporate culture. That "fit" is often as simple as putting on the right uniform. Before you go for your interview, assess how the people who work at the company in your area of interest dress, and dress accordingly.

Dressing for success means tailoring your attire to the job. Career clothes are about your career, not your personal style. Remember, it's your work that is supposed to stand out.





You in Your Favorite Sweater - CONTEST 5/21/2009
This could be you!

Not a slave to fashion? Prove it by sending us a photo of you in your favorite sweater. You know, the one you have not yet bagged up and stored for the summer.


Tell us how long you have had it, where you bought it, the brand, and why it is your favorite. We will pick the best photo and story, publish it here, and you will win a cashmere scarf.

Post your entries to our: blog

Contest ends August 1.




Sweater Girl 5/19/2009 So you are definitely not that iconic sweater girl from the 40's and 50's. You are of course much younger, but not that young that you wear your sweaters skin tight.

Sweater Art sweaters fit. Appropriate for the professional woman, they embrace you in a warm friendly hug. You can breathe. Your bra lines will not show.

Our flattering silhouettes, lengths and graphic designs accentuate the positive. But in the end it's about your attitude and how you wear it.




Fashion Tips from Sweater Art 5/16/2009
Of course you want to buy clothes that make you look fabulous. But what is that really? When you get beyond the designer label, its all about what looks good on you.

Here are some fashion tips to help guide your shopping experience. Flattering fit and color are key. Comfort and usefulness are next. When you shop your own closet why do you gravitate to the same few favorites from your entire wardrobe?

Analyze your purchases before you spend money buying clothes for the wrong reasons. And remember when you do go out to buy, Sweater Art intarsia cashmere and alpaca sweaters are designed with you in mind.




What is Intarsia Knitting and Why Is It Superior 5/12/2009 With people twittering about #knitting, I decided that some definitions were in order, especially with respect to "intarsia" knitting. Intarsia knitting is what makes Sweater Art distinctive. And no we do not do argyles!

You can go to: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Intarsia_(knitting) and learn about the intarsia knitting process. But what is not described is why this process is a superior form of knitting patterns.

There are really three reasons:
1. The finished sweater is lighter in weight.
2. There is no "carried" yarn color to show through to the front.
3. The pattern can be smaller and more detailed.


So if you are looking for hard to find intarsia knit cashmere sweaters or alpaca intarsias, you can find them at Sweater Art.




How To Store Your Sweaters 5/08/2009 Spring cleaning your closet? Storing your sweaters would be a great start. I assume they are neatly folded on shelves, not hanging. But no matter how they have been treated in the past, the first thing to do before putting them away is to clean them. Moths are attracted to your body oil and dirt, not the fibers. Pillow cases are a great way to store sweaters as they allow air to circulate and act as a barrier to moth larvae. If it's easier to use plastic bags, make sure your sweaters are completely dry before sealing the bag and use a piece of tissue paper in the sweater fold to absorb any ambient moisture.



Michelle Obama Loves Cardigan Sweaters 4/30/2009



Michelle Obama elevates the cardigan sweater to the ultimate style "must have" piece for all occasions. From it's first appearance at her husband's acceptance speech to more recently when she visited the Queen of England, Michelle's cardigan sweater has got her back. Get your back covered with a cardigan from Sweater Art.













Remember Investment Dressing? 4/28/2009



The French have done it for years. They invest in one or two outfits of quality clothing and wear them. We did it in the 80's when "dress for success" was a mantra for designer labels.

I think the new frugality that "Time" magazine touts is not the solution to our economic problems. Are you really one of the people they interviewed that has the will power to stay out of stores, buy cheaper clothes, or wear your clothes out?

Don't you want to go out there and at least look for a bargain? How much do you have to rationalize replacing your old basic charcoal cashmere sweater, with a more updated version that you know you can wear everyday and everywhere? Or how about an alpaca sweater that will not pill or ball. Clothes made from quality materials that are well-maintained last. Think about "collectible clothing" not clothes you throw away. You will never wear them out.



That's Not Our Look 4/25/2009



As a manufacturer, of course we have to have a "look". In the case of Sweater Art, our brand showcases clean lines, classic silhouttes, sophisisticated intarsias and modern missy fits. We think art is always in style.

In this economy, where every retailer is trying to get as many customers as possible, old and new, I think that broadening a store's assortment, is a necessary step.

When I hear, "that's not our look", from a buyer, I really cringe. A narrowly assorted store allows the customer to walk in and out very quickly. There is no need to "shop".

Our line is intended to be the eye candy for your window, the unique something that will make a customer walk in to your store and either buy Sweater Art or see what else you have. Give us a try!

Career Dressing 4/22/2009

All you career women, you lucky gals who still have a job in this economy and a reason to get dressed every day, please consider your image. And those of you looking for work, wearing the right clothes to your interviews is an important part of the process.

Dress for success. Look professional and well paid and you will be. That old saying "You look like a million bucks" has a lot of truth to it.

What is right for now? Timeless, modern pieces that last are the strategic investment. Styles that say something about you rather than the designer whose name is in the label are the best way to express your look.

If you like our look, thank you for requesting it at your favorite store.





The New Frugality - Getting More Bang for Your Buck! 3/30/2009



How to wisely spend the fewer disposable dollars you have for your wardrobe? We suggest making a statement.

Is anyone but you really going to notice if you replace your worn black cashmere with another one? Seriously, basic sweaters look pretty much the same.

You want to buy something that will make you look and feel great, and our 25" Snow Flower sweater does just that. Crisp black and white is always classic and the fitted at the bodice A-line shape has stood the test of time.











Art Imitates Life 3/14/2009 Pretty as a picture. Our Mondrian Shawl is based on many works by the famous artist, especially his series of numbered grids with primary colors. Wear your sophistication and stand out in this beautiful piece of handmade, 100% alpaca wearable art intarsia.


Save the Dates 3/12/2009



The Fashion Market of Northern California is April 4 - 7. Sweater Art is Booth 333. It's a nice number, easy to remember, but please call soon to make a show appointment: 415-456-SWTR

Conservative dressers want options! We have clean lines, fitted garments, and enduring style for the more classic customer.

Above is our popular Diagonals, Kandinksy inpired cashmere pullover sweater. This very soft, 12 gauge, 2ply intarisa is unique and flattering. Pair it with black or winter white. It also looks great with black and white houndstooth patterns, herringbones, and surface interest fabrics. Try it with tight jeans and high boots. The possibilities are endless.



Wearable Art Cashmere 3/8/2009



Our Matisse Leaves cashmere art intarsia is long, slinky and sexy. The pointelle sleeves have a tiny leaf pattern that offsets the big drama on the sweater front. The leaves are well-placed: they do not interfere with the bust and they camouflage
the possibility of a tummy.


The art on this style represents the paper cut-outs that Matisse developed in the last decade of his life. His assistants would would color the shapes with gouche and at the direction of the artist pin them into position for wall murals. These works can also be seen in stained glass windows.

From titles assigned by the artist, it is apparent that the shapes were inspired by flowers like the acanthus and snow drop. So they are not really leaves.


Our New Company - HALLET SWEATER ART 2/12/2009



Hallet Handknits has transformed itself. Our new direction requires a new name.

We are now Hallet Sweater Art and we produce alpaca and cashmere women's wearable art sweaters.

This year we are inspired by Matisse, Kandinsky and Mondrian and our collection pays homage to Yves Saint Laurent. Our intarsia knit cashmere sweaters are unique and timeless. Our alpaca collection is lightweight and offered in exquisite jewel tone colors
.


Please come see us at the WWIN Show Booth A 1811.