Types and design
The term "sweater" is a catch-all for various types of garments. A
fundamental division is between a cardigan (which opens in front) and a
pullover (which does not). If the sweater has no sleeves, it is generally
called a vest.
Even within these groups, there is a great variety of design. All the
various types of necklines are found, although the V-neck and the crew
neck are the most popular. The waistline is typically at hip height, but can
vary significantly; short sweaters falling at the natural waistline can be
very attractive. The sleeve length is likewise variable, ranging from small
cap sleeves to short sleeves to three-quarter sleeves to full-length
sleeves. The front seam of a cardigan allows for further possibilities, such
as a surplice or a bolero jacket. All the hems may have various types of
borders, such as picots, ribbing (knitting) and frills.
One advantage of sweaters is that they conform well to the body without
requiring the tailoring as woven garments. For example, shaping such as
darts, flares and gores — commonly found in woven blouses, a
comparable garment — are rarely needed in sweaters, thanks to the
elasticity and drape of knitted fabrics. Even when such shaping is needed,
it can be knit into the fabric itself, without requiring seams. However, this
very elasticity makes it necessary to use more care when washing.
Nomenclature
If made of thick cotton, it is usually known as a sweatshirt. A related
garment, a jumper with an open front fastened by buttons or a zipper, is
called a cardigan. A hockey sweater was, in the early days of ice hockey,
recognisable as what we would now call a sweater, but has since evolved
into a sort of jersey.
In British English, a sweater is called a pullover, sweater, jersey, or
jumper, this last term being the most common name in Australian
English. In South African English, a sweater is always called a jersey.
Sleeveless pullovers are known in American English and Australian English
as vests. In British English they are known as tank tops.
Customary wear
Thin sweaters may be worn tucked in to the waistband of trousers; but
otherwise, men's sweaters are to be worn untucked. Notable individuals
seen wearing their sweaters tucked include Cary Grant, Gary Cooper,
Russ Salzberg, Sylvester McCoy, and Hadley Eliker. The most famous of
all is, of course, Bill Cosby.
Some women's sweaters are meant to be worn belted; sometimes, a belt
or drawstring is knitted into the sweater itself.
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