Styles Leave No Room To Knit-Pick

Knitwear styles are classic, creative and versatile, the perfect option for busy women on a budget for their good looks and ease of care. Today’s outfits are from two companies that feature quality and comfortable separates.

Pandamonium’s styles pay special attention to decorative detailing, including Swarovski crystals, Ultra Suede appliques and hand-painted designs. Garments are available in a complete size range from petite (2-4) through XXL (26-28).

Fashions by Multiples are the ideal mix-match pieces, because the colors are consistent from season to season, and at special prices, you can purchase wardrobebuilding packages. I particularly like the waistband on the Multiples skirt because it’s neat, wide and comfortable.

Both Pandamonium and Multiples garments are pre-shrunk, dye-fast, and pill- and wrinkle-resistant. They are poly/cotton interlock knitwear, and I personally conducted a test of their machine washability.

Clothing from these companies is available through catalogs, retail stores and local fashion consultants.

Designer version

Black turtleneck top with Swarovski Austrian crystal design, $89

Black matching gore skirt, $49

Items above from Pandamonium catalog Goldtone earrings with rhinestones by Carolee, $75

Black suede pump by Stuart Weitzman, $155

Total: $368

Dress For Less version

Black turtleneck top, $30.50

Black gore skirt, $53.50

Items above by Multiples available from local sales consultants and sales brochure.

Goldtone earrings by Anne Klein at major department stores, $30

Black suede pumps by Calico at major department stores, $49

Total: $163

MEMO: All bargains featured in this column are available in book form. Send $9.95 to Dress For Less, 177 Sound Beach Ave., Suite 6, Old Greenwich, CT 06870.