by Rachel PughWho says wool is dated? Wool, a classic material used in clothing, has a reputation of being uncomfortable, scratchy and is not known for being breathable. Many women hesitate when they see it as the primary material on the clothing tag due to these characteristics. Worried about discomfort, sensitive skin and irritation, some women might bypass a beautifully crafted wool dress and choose a safer fabric, like a rayon blend. The truth of the matter is that some of the best labels design items with wool. If sacrificing some those designers isn’t an issue, then wool can be completely avoided. But there is hope for the fashionable diehards.
When searching for a better-made dress during cooler temperatures, do not sidestep wool selections. Examine all the materials used to make the dress, and you just may be pleasantly surprised when reading the description. Many of today’s wool dresses are actually wool blends. Keep your eye out for other materials such as nylon, cashmere, viscose and rayon.
To make shopping a little easier, start by browsing through well-known companies such as Banana Republic, Ann Taylor, Nanette Lepore, Ralph Lauren, and Brooks Brothers. The latter are the more expensive designers, but a company like Banana Republic — or even Victoria’s Secret — provides you quality clothing without destroying your wallet. Their items are not inexpensive by any means, but you can find an affordable, well-stitched wool blend dress for less than $100. Stop by a local retailer (the closest Banana Republic to NEPA is located at The Crossings Premium Outlets in Tannersville), or simply check out the choices online at the company’s Web site. The Nanette Lepore dresses can be found at Bloomingdales.
The best part about wool dresses is that it’s difficult for them to go out of style. Wool is a global fashion staple. It has graced its way on dresses throughout the eras, and if enough women would have held on to their dresses from the 1960s, many of their fashionable daughters would be cheering triumphantly right now. From short mod dresses to more formal full-length dresses, wool was here when designers wanted to design dresses for the winter season and when conservative tastes were priority. Wool was here when women wanted a simple, sophisticated, classic dress that could be worn for decades. And wool is here today with modern twists, easier breathing fabrics and styles that could be worn for, you guessed it, decades.
Warm up this upcoming season and embrace a material that is here to stay. With the invention of new blends, you can do so without the worry of breaking out. And if sophistication is your bag, don’t forget the pearls.
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