Do You Suffer From ISS (Itchy Sweater Syndrome)?

By Brian Maynor

 

One of the season’s most iconic items, the cozy oversized sweater, can also be one of the most uncomfortable if you have sensitive skin.

Every year we are bombarded with images of people lounging in sweaters drinking warm beverages by a fire and while that scenario looks tranquil and inviting; it is not a reality for many people. If you pick the wrong sweater, it can be itchy, scratchy and generally irritating to your skin, but there is help.

Here are a few tips on how to find the perfect sweater to live out your cozy seasonal fantasy:

1.    Know your fabric. It’s easy to clump all winter sweaters into the ‘wool’ category, but not all wools are the same. The common characteristics of all wool are that it is water-resistant and great at regulating body heat. The differences are as vast as the difference is human hair, because let’s face it that’s what wool is – the hair of sheep.

2.    Is cashmere king? Often thought of as wool royalty, cashmere is luxurious, soft and often expensive, but there are drawbacks. The fineness of the fibers that give cashmere its softness also decreases its durability. Delicate fibers tend to stretch, snag and peel much more easily than other wools, so if you’re going to invest in it you have to protect and care for it properly.

3.    Merino is the favorite. Merino wool is second most luxurious wool and a go-to for softness, but that shouldn’t be the only factor considered. When you are deciding on a sweater you want one that allows you to have full range of motion, but it should also return to its original shape. If sweaters are hanging you want to check the shoulders to make sure they have not been stretched out of shape by the hanger and double check the cuffs after you try it on.

4.    There is no ‘wool allergy’. Contrary to popular assertion, there are no know allergies to wool since it is comprised of keratin, the same protein as human hair. The most likely culprit of the sensitivity is the coarseness of the fiber or the chemicals used to treat them. Like all clothes, it’s a good idea to wash them per the care instructions before wearing them. Another contributing factor to ISS is dry skin. You want to make sure you moisturize and care for your skin and that means more than wearing a base layer. Wool can be coarse and poke through t-shirts.

5.    Balance the synthetics. Wool isn’t cheap, so one way manufacturers discount sweaters is by blending them with synthetic fibers and labeling ‘wool blends’. While this does produce more affordable options, it raises the likelihood of an itchy sweater. Acrylic is the synthetic version of wool that lets you wash it at home, but offers none of the benefits of the real thing. If you’re going to opt for a blended sweater you want to make sure it is at least 30% wool. This will retain the water resistance, odor control and temperature regulation of the garment.

Wool sweaters are a seasonal staple, but if you’re worried about how comfortable it will be test it out before you buy it. Try it on and rub it around on your arms and neck to see how it feels when it moves. It may be great when you’re standing still, but if it drives you crazy when you move it’s not the right sweater.

 

Click here or on the images below to learn more about the outfit.

 

 

Click here or on the images below to learn more about the outfit.

 

 

 

I am always curious to hear some of your weekend wardrobe dilemmas and challenges. Please send your comments and questions to [email protected]. Also find each of these storyboards at http://brianmaynor.polyvore.com with links to purchase each item.

 

About Brian Maynor

Brian Maynor has built a reputation as one of the leading style coaches in the Southeast and is quickly expanding his eponymous company, BRIAN MAYNOR and his FIND, FLATTER & FLAUNT line of image consulting services. A professional with a fresh, upbeat and down-to-earth personality and boundless creative energy, he works frequently with with local celebrities; Fortune 500 companies and nonprofit organizations; modeling agencies; fashion designers; production companies; record labels; media and individuals. A regular contributor to various fashion blogs and online communities, Brian Maynor is one of the most trusted and recognized style experts in the region, utilizing his education and training as a broadcast journalist to serve as a style lecturer, emcee, and commentator for over a decade. He has appeared at fashion shows, expos, and charity fundraisers, as well as events with big brands like Banana Republic, Ann Taylor, Chico’s and Macy’s. His approach is innovative, creative and fashion-forward, balancing fresh, modern styles with classic pieces to keep one’s look grounded. To learn more, visit http://www.brianmaynor.com.

 

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