TREND: Cowl Necks Get Their Sexy Back

Robert Rodriguez Cowl Neck Sweater$330.00
Available at: eLUXURY

You know, it wasn't that long ago that the term "cowl neck sweater" conjured up images of crusty old school librarians wearing orthopedic shoes, a floor-length rayon skirt, and the requisite itchy wool cowl neck. Ick. Thankfully, this is no longer the case. Cowl neck sweaters circa winter 2006 are sleek, trendy, and dare I say a little bit sexy. I don't think the school librarian would approve.

Cowl necks are the perfect way to show a little flash of skin while still taking part in the winter super-covered-up knitwear trend. The flash of neckline, be it subtle or dramatic-- like this hot Robert Rodriguez number (top right)-- keeps your otherwise demure sweaters from looking stuffy and constricting. The Robert Rodriguez Draped Cowl Neck features a body-conscious shape and plunging cowl neck that make it ready for a hot night out. Paired with leggings or skinny pants it has the tunic trend down pat. Sans leg covering you've hit another trend altogether-- the mini-length sweater dress. LiLo would be so proud.

Looking for a cowl neck that is a little more daylight appropriate? I'm loving this cotton/cashmere blend from LaRok. The shape is so modern and fresh that it will turn heads without resorting to baring it all.

LaRok Cowl Neck Kimono Sweater
$198.00
Available at: CoutureCandy.com

The silk/cashmere blend Poet Sleeve Sweater with Cowl Neck from trend master Arden B. gets a Parisian-chic boost from a matching skinny neck scarf. This sleek sweater will add a polish to everyday denim or dress up nicely with a pencil skirt and platform pumps. Tres jolie.

Poet Sleeve Sweater with Cowl Neck
$78.00
Variations: Vertigo (shown), Bloom, Black, Sugar, Starlet Red
Available at: ArdenB.com

The cowl neck goes weekend casual

with this chunky Cable Knit Cowl Neck Sweater from Gap. This adorable knit manages to look body-conscious and super comfy at the same time. I'm warm and cozy already.

Gap Cable Knit Cowl Neck Sweater
$48.00
Variations: Bitter Chocolate Brown (shown), Camel Heather, Heather Gray, Ivory Frost
Available at: Gap.com

Want to try on the cowl neck trend without commitment or buyers remorse? Try on this stylish Kabuki Cowl Neck Sweater. The look is trendy and the winter white shade has that luxurious look that you can only get from wearing white in the dead of winter. Luckily the price is so insanely affordable that you won't be devastated if your morning latte ends up on your shirt rather than in your mouth.

Kabuki Cowl Neck Sweater
$22.50
Available at: WetSeal.com

Click on any photo to link to where you can purchase that trendy cowl neck sweater online.