The traditional pashmina is no longer the go-to accessory for adding instant polish, according to fashion columnist Shane Watson. Instead, Watson proposes a more accessible item already likely in many wardrobes: the humble crew-neck, long-sleeved sweater.

This styling technique, known as the Sling-Around Sweater (SAS), involves wearing a lightweight sweater loosely draped around the shoulders or neck, rather than putting arms through the sleeves or head through the neck hole. Watson notes that while this has been a trend among fashion insiders for over a year, it has now crossed over into mainstream fashion.

The SAS Style

Watson highlights that the SAS is both a practical solution and an easy styling trick for a wide range of people. For those over fifty, it can provide comfortable coverage without sacrificing style, bridging the gap between wearing sleeveless tops or not.

To achieve the look effectively, Watson suggests several guidelines:

  • Material and Weight: The sweater should be soft and of light to medium weight. Chunky knits or heavy wools can appear too cumbersome for warmer weather and do not drape elegantly. Wool is preferred over cotton for a more sophisticated appearance, and a standard sweater is generally easier to manage than a cardigan.

  • Draping: A common way to wear the SAS is draped down the back, with the sleeves looped once across the chest. This offers a touch of extra coverage and introduces another texture or color to an outfit. Actress Daisy Edgar-Jones was noted wearing a beige SAS with a sleeveless sundress at the Cannes Film Festival, an approach Watson suggests elevated her look significantly.

  • Versatility: The SAS can function as a modern, less dowdy alternative to a shawl. It can soften the neckline of a tailored dress, provide structure when a jacket is not practical, or offer additional coverage when a vest top is worn.

  • Color and Coordination: Plain colors are recommended, avoiding overly bright or 'pretty' options. The sweater can serve as a contrasting element in a minimalist outfit, add a subtle tonal layer, or create a chic monochromatic look when paired with a matching t-shirt. Watson references Edgar-Jones again, styled with a grey wool t-shirt and a matching SAS, paired with white jeans and black pumps. This cream-on-white combination, or a red sweater with black attire, are highlighted as current favorites. Grey is also suggested as a versatile grounding color.

  • Waist or Hip Placement: For those who are averagely tall, a light, soft sweater can be tied around the hips or waist as a stylish alternative to a belt. This can add smartness without creating bulk. Tying the arms in front and letting the sweater drape over the bottom also serves as a cover-up. A small red sweater tied to one side of a little black dress or a midnight blue one with a jumpsuit can break up the silhouette effectively.

Beyond Summer

Watson emphasizes that the SAS is not a fleeting trend. In the spring, sweaters were seen draped over trench coat lapels. As the weather cools, or on breezy summer evenings, the SAS can be worn over a khaki jacket or knotted at the throat of a blazer, presenting a modern alternative to a pashmina.

This styling method, according to Watson, is an effortless way to update a summer wardrobe with an anti-aging effect, utilizing an item many people already possess.