This fall, it's a bolero

By SUZANNE D'AMATO
WASHINGTON POST
WASHINGTON -- Inspired by the costumes traditionally worn in the Latin dance of the same name, the bolero sweater has taken center stage this fall. The scaled-down shape, with its small shoulders and cropped, curving hem, fits in perfectly with the shrunken silhouette fashion currently favors. But the sweater's popularity owes much to practicality, too: Whether you choose a classic buttoned-up knit or its crazily crocheted cousin, the bolero is the perfect piece for the first days of autumn.
"I have five or six sweaters like this," said Kintoya Davis, 26, of Washington. "I like the shape a lot."
How to Wear It
Look for a sweater that's snug but not tight. If you have to choose between two sizes, opt for the larger one: Anything even just a little too small will make people wonder why you shopped in the children's department.
Long-torso and bottom-heavy types should avoid boleros that stop right below the bust: They visually cut the torso in half, lengthening it even more and emphasizing wide hips in the process. A longer option is more likely to flatter.
Tanks and long-sleeve tees both work well under this kind of sweater. Seek out tunic-length tops with minimal details -- you can get away with a simple lace or ruffle trim, but dramatic pleats and elaborate embroidery will be too bulky.
Shrunken sweaters are best paired with more volume on your lower half: an A-line skirt or wide-leg pant helps keep proportions in balance.