When most people think of knitwear, jumpers and sweaters are usually the first things that come to mind. And, while these are certainly excellent examples of knitwear, there is so much more to this wonder fabric than a few tops. Under garments and hosiery of the highest quality are often knitted, as are fall and springtime jackets and dresses. Perhaps the most overlooked form of knitwear, however, are the accessories.

Knitwear Accessory Options

Let's start with hats, since that will be the knitwear accessory we are most familiar with. Knitted hats come in a nearly endless array of sizes, shapes, and colors. Indeed, you can find hats that are appropriate for wearing to the office, a casual day date with friends, and for some serious winter weather afternoons outdoors. While knitted hats can add a great deal of color and personality to your look, you should be careful to stay occasion-appropriate. That means that electric blue, beret style hat with the peacock plume at the top should probably stay in the closet until a costume party or festival event rather than accompanying you to the office.

Gloves and scarves are next on the list, although they are generally best reserved for cold weather. Wearing either on a warm day would probably not do much to encourage comfort. Even so, they make marvelous additions to your winter knitwear wardrobe and allow you to add a touch of color and style to would-be bland outfits.

Moving back to multi-season accessories, consider knitted belts. Like the hats, scarves, and gloves, they can add interest to your outfit and help showcase your personality. Unlike these other knitwear options, however, belts can be worn year round, so be sure to stock up on a variety of styles and colors.

Getting the Most Out of Your Knitwear Accessories

Like most knitwear, these accessories will require a little bit of extra care to ensure that you get the longest possible life out of them. If you are going to wash your knitted hats, gloves, scarves, or belts at home, be sure to wash them by hand in cold water with a mild detergent. Under no circumstances should you put them in the dryer, even on low heat. If you have a particularly expensive knitwear item, you may be more comfortable with the security of your garment by taking it to a reputable dry cleaner.

The storage of knitwear accessories is also essentially identical to other knitted garments. Never hang any item, but rather carefully fold it and place it flat in a drawer or on a shelf. Don't forget the importance of moth prevention; those little boogers will make a four course meal out of your prized knitwear! Moth balls or some other form of deterrent, cedar for instance, will keep your knitted accessories from becoming lunch.

Most importantly, don't be afraid to experiment with all of the many knitwear accessory options out there. You may find your own personal style, and then again, you may end up setting the next trend. Have fun with it!