What's old is suddenly new again.  Each new season inevitably introduces us to a fresh, new fashion trend.  This case is a little different.  The best part about this item is that you probably already own at least one.  Perfect at a time when most of us are trying to be smarter about our purchases.  The cardigan is out in full force and is the must-have piece for fall.  It is an immediate hit for many reasons.  It can be worn many different ways and be paired with most things already in your closet. 

They are made in different fabrics for the changing temperatures, they can be dressed up or down, and they are shown in different styles so that they can flatter most any woman.  A cardigan can be cropped or can fall all the way down to your knees.   The long cardigan is my personal favorite as it is perfect for hiding anything you want hidden.  You might be thinking about your grandmother, the school librarian or Mr. Rogers, but that is yesterday's sweater.  It's all in how the cardigan is worn.

Tips on how to wear...

*Add a waist-cinching wide belt to your long cardigan (also called the boyfriend cardigan).  It shows off a slim waist and updates an older sweater.  Leave the cardigan partially open to let what's underneath peak through.  Try a lacy camisole or ruffled blouse to give your cardigan a completely different feel.

*Wear a long cardigan over skinny jeans or leggings with a pair of flats or tucked in your boots.  This is a quick, stylish outfit as seen in many celebrity magazines.  The long cardigan pairs perfectly with a long, multi-chain or link necklace.  Layer these necklaces for more of an impact.

*Add a scarf and gloves and wear a calf length sweater cardigan as a coat in early fall or when temperatures only require so much.  More options will allow for you to get more wear out of your wardrobe.

*Change the look of a shorter cardigan by changing which buttons are left open and closed.  All the way open is more casual while all the way closed is more conservative.  Close just a few buttons in the middle to draw in the waistline. Leave all buttons undone and add a vintage brooch at the top for a closure.  Old jewelry is always unique and fun to pull out every once in a while.

*Pair a cropped or shorter cardigan with a dress or over a festive holiday tank.  You will see the great style underneath, but add warmth and versatility.  It is not fashionable to stand shivering on cold evenings out or freeze in an overly air-conditioned restaurant.

*Darker colors are dressier for nighttime...gray, navy or black.  Choose a bright color cardigan for day.  This is your opportunity to add the pop of color I wrote about last month.  Yellow or red are great contrasts to denim.

*Don't buy too trendy.  Buy a more basic cardigan and add the accessories yourself, whether it is a scarf, belt or brooch.  You will get more versatility out of your purchase and be able to change it as you please.

A picture is worth a thousand words.  Check out In Style's November issue for play-by-play examples on how to wear your cardigan if you need a little motivation.  The possibilities are endless.  The cardigan is lightweight, stylish and the perfect item to battle New England's weather changes.  Find one in your closet or shop for something new...either way don't leave your cardigan behind.

By Kathleen Sullivan

Kathleen Sullivan, a self proclaimed lifelong lover of clothes, lives in Marshfield and works as the manager and buyer for The Clothes Line in Scituate.  With several years experience in retail, Kathleen applies a sharp fashion sense to help women of all sizes, shapes, and attitudes discover their own personal style.