Bamboo sweatshirt for women and when to choose it over a cardigan

Short answer: A sweatshirt is a layer you put on and keep on. A cardigan is a layer you take on and off. Choose based on whether the temperature changes during the day, not on what looks nicest on the hanger.

Fixed layer or open layer

The sweatshirt is closed all the way round and holds an even warmth. The cardigan opens and closes, so you can adjust the warmth without taking it off. If you often move between cold and warm rooms, the cardigan wins. If you stay in one place all day, choose the sweatshirt. See bamboo sweatshirts for women.

Weight decides the use

A light sweatshirt works indoors all year, because it does not get too warm when the sun hits the window. A heavy sweatshirt is only right in cold rooms and outdoors in the cooler months. Look at the thickness of the fabric when you choose, and think about where you will wear it most.

At home and at the office

At home, where you control the heating, a sweatshirt is easy, because you put it on in the morning and forget it. In an office with changing temperatures, or when you move between meetings, a cardigan is more practical. You can open it when it gets warm without pulling anything over your head.

Length in relation to trousers

A sweatshirt that ends at the waist works over almost anything. A long style that covers the hips needs slim trousers underneath so it does not hide all shape. With loose trousers, the short style is the safe choice. Trousers are in bamboo sweatpants for women if you want a matching look.

The neckline makes a difference

A round neck sits close and keeps the back of the neck warm, and it can be worn alone or over a thin top. A cardigan is open at the front and needs something underneath to cover the neck. If you easily feel cold at the neck, the sweatshirt is the better choice.

Layers under and over

Under a sweatshirt, a thin top with long or short sleeves works, so you still have a layer if you take the jumper off. Over it, a windproof jacket takes over when you go outside. A cardigan fits better as a mid layer under a coat, because it does not add bulk across the chest.

With a hood instead

If you want an extra layer at the neck, a hoodie is an alternative to both the sweatshirt and the cardigan. The hood lies double over the shoulders, even when it is down, and adds a little warmth. See bamboo hoodies for women if you want to compare styles.

Caring for sweatshirts

Wash the sweatshirt at 40 degrees with a mild detergent and turn it inside out so the surface stays smooth. Skip fabric softener and dry it on low heat or flat. Heavy styles should not hang on a hanger while wet, because the weight pulls the shoulders out of shape.

When you own both

Many people end up with both in the wardrobe, and that makes sense. The sweatshirt is for days in one place, the cardigan for days with many changes. Choose both in colours that go with the same trousers, so you can switch quickly when the weather or your plans change.