1-Week Sweater Challenge: 7 Days, 7 Adventures, 1 Sweater

Exploring what it truly feels like to own and embrace a sustainable sweater

Living Sustainably With a Simple Wardrobe

Introducing a 3-part blog series about discovering new ways to dress sustainably through outfit repeating and transforming your closet into a capsule wardrobe.

Wearing the Oliver Charles sweater has allowed me to get creative with my outfits and learn firsthand the benefits of outfit repeating, not only for the environment but also for my well-being.

Join me as I walk you through how I practice sustainable living with a simplified wardrobe.

• 1-Week-Sweater Challenge
• Outfit Repeating Improves Life
• Level Up With Fewer Pieces

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The loud knock on my front door startled me. I figured it must be a solicitor or something… or maybe, a package?

I open the door and look down to be welcomed by a small capsule on my doorstep. I smiled. I knew my Oliver Charles sweater had arrived.

I was both excited and curious to try this sweater out, and now it was time to put it to the test.

I slowly screwed off the cap and unpacked the sweater. In a way, I felt like a little kid on Christmas morning unwrapping an eagerly awaited gift. This one was no surprise, but the excitement still filled me.

Layering Neutral Colors Simplified My Wardrobe

As I unboxed my new sweater, the first thing I noticed was the texture of the 3D-knit. The yak wool felt soft, warm, and it was surprisingly lightweight.

I’m pretty sensitive to the heat. I prefer to layer my clothes and not wear heavy sweaters, so this sweater was perfect.

I’m more of a minimalist and enjoy wearing versatile blacks, greys, and whites, so I chose a color that would pair well with my already neutral-toned wardrobe: a heathered brown color. So far, things were looking good, and I was excited to try it on!

The Perfect Workleisure Sweater For WFH

I work from home most days, and naturally, I like to dress comfy while still looking put together for work. Typically, I’ll throw on a tank top and yoga pants in the warmer months or a sweater and leggings in the cooler months.

We’re making our way into winter now, so there’s a slight chill in the air. I love it and enjoy keeping my windows open to let the fresh air energize my home.

Today was filled with lots of writing, a few client calls, and planning for an upcoming project. I wore my Oliver Charles sweater all day and only tucked it back away in my closet when it was time to drift off to dreamland. Honestly, I could’ve worn it to bed; it’s that comfy.

The Wool Doesn't Itch And There Aren't Seams!

It was such a beautiful day today that my partner and I decided to go for a drive just because.

On our way, we passed by my favorite coffee shop, and I couldn’t help but stop and grab a cup of my signature drink. Little did I know, it was National Coffee Day! The barista filled me in on how they were celebrating their big day as a coffee shop and even offered me a discount on my drink.

You can see me here sipping happily on my ‘Frozen Buckeye’ as I show off my Oliver Charles sweater.

Some wool sweaters are itchy or have tags that poke out and irritate you. I never experienced any of that with this sweater. There's a reason for that; yak wool is fine as cashmere, so it's very soft. And 3D-knitting makes the sweaters seamless, so there aren't any seams digging into your neck and shoulders.

Even though it's only day 2, wearing this sweater has been smooth sailing all the way. Just how I like it!

3D-Knit Pit Vents Made It The Best Mid Layer

Today I decided to have a little fun. Skateboarding is my partner’s favorite pastime activity, and I’ve actually taken a liking to it too.

Since it was a cooler day, I decided to test out my Oliver sweater and go for a ride. I rode around, did some kick turns, attempted an ollie (still working on those), and enjoyed the moment.

I’m not one to go hard on the tricks but even taking a cruise is enough to get you sweating.

The good news? The hidden aerated 3D-knit in the sweater's armpits kept me totally cool. The crisp breeze might’ve helped too!

THIS Is What Breathable Means In Clothing

My mom called me a “little heater” when I was a kid because I was always hot.

I still am, for the most part, and it’s part of the reason I like to layer my clothes. I’ll throw on a spaghetti strap tank, maybe a long sleeve (if it’s really chilly), and finish with a cozy sweater or jacket.

That way, when I’m inside, and the temp is a little too toasty for my liking, I can start to peel off the layers, like an onion.

What I love about this sweater is that even when it’s not that cold out, I can wear it by itself or layer it with things like a denim jacket.

Today, I decided to take a nice but windy walk across my local town’s bridge. My partner and I spent some great quality time together, and I really got to test out the sweater.

Honestly, at first, I was a bit skeptical of the quality and effectiveness of the sweater / yak wool. As someone who gets warm easily (even when it’s a tad chilly), I wasn’t sure if I’d like this sweater. But having the aerated vents underneath the armpit is incredibly innovative, and I feel like it helps so much with breathability.

All in all, I’m super happy with it. It’s soft, breathable, and does keep you warm (but not too hot!).

Speaking of my mom, I decided to visit her today and showcase my new sweater! I also gave her a hand with watering her plants.

This woman is known for having a green thumb, and if it weren’t for her when I was younger and living together, all of my plants would’ve shriveled up and perished. Heck, sometimes this still happens to my plants (I am doing better these days, I promise).

She miraculously, through some magic in her watering can or perhaps a spell she puts on them, revives my half-dead plants.

Before you know it, they’re back to their bouncy, bright green little selves. Lucky for me, a little friend joined in as I was watering the plants. That’s Chai, and she’s a pretty cool kitty.

Khullu Is Incredibly Breathable And Durable

It’s my belief that you need to get some fresh air daily. It’s good for the mind, body, and soul and can open up the floodgates to creativity. Something I need a lot of as a writer.

Today I enjoyed some quality time with my dad, who I haven’t seen in over a year. We live 2500 miles apart, but this past weekend, he made the mammoth trek of riding across the country on only his Harley Davidson. They don’t call him “Rebel” for no reason.

When he got here, I showed him around town, and one of our activities included going for a nice nature walk. He’s from the big city and doesn’t get to enjoy nature like we have where I’m at.

He complimented me on the sweater - so hey, at least I know it looks good (but I already knew that). As I hiked and felt the cool breeze blow through my hair, my sweater did a good job of keeping me warm.

It was in the low 60s and sunny, and the Oliver Charles sweater kept me cozy but not too toasty. A win-win.

This Is A Perfect Smart Casual Sweater

Today I did something I’ve never done before. I signed up to be a career mentor for kids. I made my way to the local middle, which immediately launched me back to nostalgia land, and the feeling was unreal.

I haven’t even been out of school for that long, but going back just hit differently. I decided to wear my uber-cute Oliver Charles sweater coupled with a lightweight polka dot, collared shirt underneath. I made sure the trendy collar poked out just enough so you could see it.

I paired this with some medium-wash jeans and bronze flats. My look was complete and supremely polished. I loved this smart casual look!

I had a great time meeting with the kids, going through mentorship training, and learning more about the program. I even got a compliment on how cozy my sweater looked! I confirmed that comment to be true.

Trying something new is always a little nerve-racking, but if you never step out of your little bubble of comfort, how will you grow and discover what you love? And if you’re nervous? Wear this Oliver Charles sweater, and it’ll give you the comfort you need (mentally and physically!).

An Everyday Sweater That Lasts For Life

There you have it. I just spent a full 7 days in the Oliver Charles sweater, and I can honestly say my opinion took me by surprise.

At first, I wasn't sure how it would feel. Would it be scratchy? Too tight? Too loose? Not warm enough? But after living my everyday life in it for a week, I was surprised to find out that it’s one of the comfiest items of clothing I own now.

I’m even wearing it as I write this final paragraph! See, I’m not lyin’. As someone who is trying to embrace a more minimalistic wardrobe, I think the Oliver Charles sweater is a staple item for anyone’s closet.

It kept me cool, the khullu fabric was breathable, and I could pair it with so many outfits (can’t get better than that). I look forward to seeing just how many outfits I can create from one sweater.

Let those creativity floodgates open! I would definitely recommend the Oliver Charles sweater to a friend, a family member, or even my partner because of its versatility and comfort. With how high quality the fabric is, you could call it your forever sweater - and I just might.

If you believe that every good wardrobe starts with owning less and owning better, consider buying yourself an OLIVER CHARLES sweater.