Cowhide Sweater Trend - How To Style and Care For Cow Print Knit Sweaters

The Rise of Cowhide Sweaters

Cowhide prints and patterns have become an increasingly popular fashion choice over the past few years. What started as a subtle texture incorporated into accessories and home goods has now made its way into the wardrobes of celebrities and style icons. One of the most prevalent cowhide trends is the cowhide sweater - an unexpected way to wear the cow print that manages to be both rustic and chic.

The Cowhide Sweater Trend

Cowhide sweaters come in a few different styles, though the most recognizable is likely the cowhide crewneck. This style of sweater features a front panel made from cowhide leather, typically in a black and white spotted pattern. The cow print leather is then trimmed and framed with a ribbed knit collar, cuffs, and hem in a coordinating neutral shade.

The contrast between the texture of the velvety leather and the soft, stretchy sweater knit creates visual interest and dimension. Cowhide sweaters have an inherently casual vibe, but they can be dressed up or down depending on how they are styled.

Celebrities Showcasing the Trend

One of the most high-profile moments for the cowhide sweater trend was when Kendall Jenner was spotted out and about wearing a cropped cowhide cardigan. Other celebrities like Hailey Bieber and Bella Hadid have also embraced cowhide sweaters, further elevating the trend's popularity.

These style icons demonstrate just how versatile the cowhide sweater can be. Whether dressed down with jeans or up with leather pants, cowhide sweaters bring a touch of Western inspiration to any outfit. The contrasting textures also lend visual interest that makes an outfit stand out from the crowd.

A Sweater Styled for Comfort

Beyond being on-trend, cowhide sweaters also prioritize comfort. The knit portion of cowhide sweaters contains stretch for ease of movement. Cowhide leather has an inherently soft, supple feel as well. The result is a sweater that looks stylish but feels incredible to wear.

For ultimate comfort, an oversized cowhide cardigan or hoodie allows for a slouchy, relaxed fit. More form-fitting cowhide crewnecks and turtlenecks can also feel cozy while showing off your shape. The comfort factor makes cowhide sweaters ideal for wearing around the house and for casual everyday wear.

Caring for Cowhide Sweaters

One downside of cowhide sweaters is that the leather panel generally requires dry cleaning or specialist care. However, the knit portions can still be cared for as normal according to the fabric content.

Cleaning a Cowhide Sweater at Home

While difficult stains on the leather may require professional cleaning, you can care for surface dirt at home. Simply wipe the cowhide gently with a damp cloth to remove dust. Allow the leather to air dry afterwards.

For deeper cleaning, use a specialty leather cleaner applied with a soft lint-free cloth. Test any products on an inconspicuous area first. Avoid excessive water and heat, which can damage leather.

Storing Cowhide Sweaters

When storing cowhide sweaters in between wears, fold them carefully so the leather does not crease. Do not hang cowhide sweaters, as this can also lead to deforming the leather. Storing in breathable garment bags is best for preventing dust build up over time.

Some cowhide sweaters may not be suitable for washing machines even on delicate cycles. However, styles that are fully knit can be cared for as normal by following garment tag instructions.

How to Style a Cowhide Sweater

Cowhide sweaters may have an inherently rustic vibe, but they can be adapted to suit a wide range of styles. For casual looks, pair your cow sweater with blue jeans and ankle boots. For something a bit dressier, style it with leather leggings or pants and heels.

Casual Outfits

A cowhide sweater looks fantastic with casual staples like jeans, leggings, joggers, t-shirts, and sneakers. Go for a monochrome look by matching black or white pieces together. Neutrals like tan, grey, army green, and denim also pair nicely.

Accessories like baseball caps, beanies, or oversized sunglasses can add extra flair. For outerwear, a denim or leather jacket completes the casual cowhide look.

Dressed Up Outfits

To elevate your cowhide sweater for a night out, choose sleek bottoms like leather leggings, pants, or skirts. Heels or ankle booties also lend polish. Tuck your sweater into high-waisted pieces to emphasize your silhouette.

metallic accessories and jewelry instantly dress up a casual cow print. A bomber or moto jacket provides colder weather layering that fits the aesthetic. Bold makeup and tousled hair gives your outfit a model-off-duty vibe.

The Benefits of Cowhide Sweaters

Beyond being a stylish wardrobe addition, cowhide sweaters offer many benefits that make them a versatile staple. The mixed media contrast and eye-catching cow print patterns allow you to stand out while staying comfortable. Cowhide sweaters also layer well under jackets and can transition your look from day to night.

Making an Outfit Statement

An item like a cowhide sweater acts as a focal point in any outfit. The distinctive leather panel is guaranteed to earn you compliments and curious questions from friends or strangers alike!

Cowhide sweaters also photograph beautifully, whether for Instagram outfit posts or modeling shots. The textures and patterns lend visual interest that helps captures the viewer's attention.

Year-Round Versatility

Cowhide sweaters work for cooler spring and fall temperatures, but also layer exceptionally well under winter jackets and coats. Lighter cowhide hoodies or cardigans transition nicely into summer nights too.

This versatility makes cowhide sweaters worth investing in. You can wear them year-round and style them for both casual everyday wear or dressy occasions.

FAQs

How do you clean a cowhide sweater?

Use a specialty leather cleaner and soft lint-free cloth to gently wipe cowhide panels. Avoid excessive water. Knit portions can be cleaned according to fabric care instructions.

Can you wash a cowhide sweater?

Dry clean only is best for sweaters with leather portions. Some knit-only cowhide designs may be machine washable if instructions allow. Avoid washing leather as it can damage texture.

How do you store a cowhide sweater?

Fold cowhide sweaters neatly without creasing leather panels. Avoid hanging as gravity can deform cowhide over time. Store in breathable garment bags.

What do you wear with a cow sweater?

Cowhide sweaters pair well with casual basics like jeans, leggings, and neutral colors. Dress them up with leather bottoms and heels. Layer under moto jackets or denim.