Chicago - September 23, 2005

A Better Sweater

Amo & Bretti Cashmere

The word sweater is associated with some retty unattractive adjectives: big, bulky, snuggly, fuzzy, and, worst of all, furry.

C’mon, no one wants to spend their winter looking like a wooly mammoth.

Hail the husband-and-wife design duo — ambitious newlyweds Amy Krofchick and Brett Perkins — who just launched an unusually sleek line of cashmere called Amo & Bretti.

Their knits are the softest you’ve ever pulled over your head — and in colors just as lovely: robin’s egg blue, lavender, white, gray, and, of course, the requisite black. Cap sleeve shells, long tanks, capes, wraps, tunics, and fitted cardigans all come tricked out with design details (brilliantly ruched, cuffed, fitted, or belled) to flatter the figure underneath.

Which brings us to the most darling of the bunch, the Karie. Hip-length and waist-hugging, it won us over with blousy, raglan sleeves, and billow fold draping at the back.

Guaranteeing the only thing ginormous about you come fall: your line of admirers.

Available at Fuschia, 538 Duane Street, between Forest Avenue and Main Street, Glen Ellyn (630-469-7465); Red Head Boutique, 3450 North Southport Avenue, between Newport and Cornelia Avenues (773-325-9898); or online at amoandbretti.com.