Make Your Winter Wardrobe Sparkle With This No-Sew Sequin Sweater

Marianne Koo
Jan 14, 2017

New year, new me, right? Well this year, I’ve decided to inject my otherwise dark, neutral style with a bit of glitter. I rocked fellow B+C babe Misty’s sequin cardigan at last year’s holiday party, and I’ve been sold ever since. While doing a bit of research, I realized that sequin clothing (at the sheer volume of sequins that my heart desires) is crazy expensive! And for good reason: Sequins are individually and meticulously sewn onto garments. It was obvious to me that I needed to come up with a good all-over sequin hack.

Sequin fringe makes for glittery, eye-catching fun in any environment. It even glams up hot dogs (this is a scientifically proven fact).

This no-sew DIY is so easy you’ll wonder why you haven’t bedazzled everything in your closet (who’s in?). Plus, it’s the perfect way to update an old sweater in need of some lovin’.

Materials and Tools:

  • sweater
  • sequin strands (we used a variety of colors totaling to about 40 yards)
  • scissors
  • super glue
  • cardboard

Instructions:

  1. Insert a scrap piece of cardboard inside of the sweater to keep the layers from sticking.
  2. Trim sequin strands to desired length.
  3. Add a dab of super glue to both ends of the sequin strand to secure them into place.
  4. Glue the sequin strands onto the sweater with a dab of super glue.
  5. Glue loose sequins in patterns above the sequins fringe for added interest.
  6. Trim the fringe for an even edge. Make sure to secure any trimmed strands with a dab of glue.
  7. Allow the sweater to dry for 1 hour before use.

Find a piece of cardboard roughly the size of the body of your sweater, and insert it between the two layers of material. This step is super important to ensure that you don’t accidentally super glue your sweater together!

The most important part of working with sequin strands is securing the individual sequins to the thread it comes on. Usually you’d buy sequin strands with the intention of removing the individual sequins to sew onto garments. In our case, we want to keep the strands intact. Do this by cutting your strand to size, and then dabbing a bit of super glue on both ends to anchor those sequins in place.

Dab a bit of super glue onto one end of the strand, and place it onto the sweater — then GO NUTS. The fringe looks best thick and layered, so we went about four layers deep.

As a finishing touch, place individual sequins (your workspace is bound to be covered in them by now!) in patterns around the fringe.

Trim any stragglers and make sure to add a dab of glue to the ends of any strands you trim. You wouldn’t want to lose all those pretty sequins!

Add additional strands to any patchy areas, and allow the sweater to dry for at least an hour before partying.

That’s it! With a little bit of patience, you can make this bad-ass glitter garment of your dreams in no time! As a disclaimer, this sweater won’t survive a machine wash, so spot clean as necessary.

Permission to get weird granted.

Show us your party inspiration by tagging us on Instagram + using the hashtag #iamcreative!

DIY Production and Styling: Marianne Koo
 Modeling: Alyssa Rusin
 Photography: Kurt Andre

11 Seriously Soft Plus-Size Sweaters That'll Save You From Cold Days

Whether you’re layering a chunky cardigan over your favorite pair of jeans or pairing a soft turtleneck with a flowy midi skirt, there’s no shortage of ways to make your fall wardrobe both stylish and comfortable. These 11 plus-size sweaters celebrate your gorgeous curves all while keeping you warm and on-trend for the season! From eye-catching stripes to dependable solid colorways, you're sure to find a sweater to suit your vibe.

Target

A New Day Cozy Knit Polo Collar Pullover Sweater

This relaxed-fit pullover will help you pull together all your best office outfits with ease. The polo collar earns it some more formal flair so you can tackle meetings and tasks in comfy style. Wear it with a skirt and your fave fall boots to totally rock the look!

Nordstrom

Vince Camuto Roving Stripe Sweater

Fall ensembles don't have to be bland. Stand out in this rainbow-striped sweater that boasts a flattering v-neck for a playful pop of color!

Amazon

The Drop Women's Brigitte Chunky Button-Front Pocket Ribbed Cardigan

This easy-fitting ribbed cardigan has everything you'd want from a plus-size sweater: soft knit fabric, relaxed, oversized shoulders, statement buttons along the front, and of course, pockets!

Eloquii

Eloquii Two Way Zipper Sweater

This zippered sweater fits your body on the snug side to make your natural figure pop. You can play with the arrangement of the two front zippers in order to flatter your look even more! This pick looks great on its own, worn over a white tank top, or layered under your go-to fall jacket.

Quince

Quince Mongolian Cashmere Oversized Boyfriend Cardigan Sweater

Crafted from "the coziest" grade-A Mongolian cashmere, this sweater flaunts a classic ribbed texture that's wearable anywhere. The oversized fit will feel wonderful no matter how you wear it – buttoned up or not.

Amazon

Lillusory Fuzzy Oversized Sweater

This super-plush sweater is destined to keep you warm this fall and winter. Cozy up in its oversized fit and larger-than-life sleeves when you need an extra dose of comfort! It comes in so many different colors and patterns to suit your fall outfit plans perfectly.

Target

Wild Fable Oversized Cable Sweater Cardigan

This cardi has a mid-length crop to it which will pair exceptionally well with high-waisted jeans and trousers this season. The timeless cable knit texture is easy to style with just about anything you've already got in your closet!

Amazon

Grace Karin Long Sleeve Striped Sweater

This green and brown striped sweater was made to turn heads. The bold pattern and contrasting stitch work along the collar, sleeves, and waistline add a chic touch you can incorporate into any look! If this unique colorway isn't exactly your vibe, it also comes in 3 more playful color options.

Eloquii

Eloquii Bow Intarsia Sweater

The bow trend lives on in this pullover sweater that works equally well for casual fall 'fits and holiday get-ups. The baby pink and red combo is just too adorable to be ignored!

Nordstrom

Karen Kane Surplice V-Neck Sweater

This lavender sweater with a body-wrapping silhouette will flatter your figure without a doubt, all while keeping you nice n' cozy in colder temps. It's made from a "wool-kissed" material that's soft to the touch, making it an absolute joy to wear by itself or layered on top of basic tanks or turtlenecks.

Target

Universal Thread Crewneck Cable Knit Pullover Sweater

The neutral tan color of this cable knit sweater qualifies it as an easy match for any outfit you've got planned for fall time. From jeans to skirts, it'll bring an undeniably cozy vibe to your looks. The mid-length hem sits right above your hips to help shape your figure flawlessly!

Subscribe to our newsletter to shop more editor-loved plus-size styles!

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Not Close With Your Family? Here's How To Have a Joyous And Connected Holiday Season

Last year, some of us celebrated the holidays apart from our families for the first time. COVID has brought with it many changes, some of them arguably positive (like increased flexibility to work from home), some difficult (such as the realization of vastly different political and social views between family and friends), and some horrible (obviously, the health implications of a global pandemic). However, for some of us, celebrating the holidays without family members isn't exclusively due to COVID. In addition to so many of us living in different areas than our families of origin, some of us simply don't have close bonds with the people we grew up around. Sometimes, this can cause loneliness.

If you're not close with your family members, the holidays can be a difficult time. This is doubly true if you don't have a close circle of friends to call upon. But make no mistake, if this sounds like your situation, you're not alone — there are thousands of other people going through the same struggles you are. We sat down with Irad Eichler, founder of Circles, a website that connects people who are sharing similar struggles, like heartbreak, grief, or loneliness. Here are some of Eichler's tips for coping — and even thriving! — during the holiday season when you're not planning on spending it with your family, for one reason or another.

Don't Fall For "Perfect Families" On Social Media

Laura Chouette

The first VERY important step to having a joyous holiday season when you're going it alone is to stop believing the narrative that others' family situations are perfect, Eichler says.

"Remember people only post a moment in time, and only the moments when they look their happiest and best."

In addition to the fact that everything you see on social media is curated for the 'gram, it's also important to remember that by focusing on what others have and you lack, you risk failing to see the great things at play in your own life.

"These holiday periods can become a time of focusing on who and what we don't have, rather than who or what we do, and can cause a negative spiral into depressing and dreadful feelings of inadequacy," says Eichler.

Gratitude is the reason for the season, after all. So instead of only seeing the negative, try some gratitude journal prompts to help you focus on what's actually really wonderful about your life right now.

Make An Effort To Deepen New Connections

Joel Muniz

While it may seem like everyone has friends and family to spend time with during the holiday season, that doesn't mean no one is available for deepening a blossoming relationship or new friendship.

"Make a list of people you can or would like to connect with, and try to reach out to at least one of them," advises Eichler.

Reaching out doesn't have to mean a big plan or an hour-long conversation. Even a quick text letting a friendly coworker know you're thinking about them can go a long way toward deepening the relationship and moving it in the direction of closer friendship.

Don't have an acquaintance in mind? Then it's time to make new acquaintances. What's more in line with the Christmas spirit than attending a Meetup or event full of people eager to make new friends?

"Join groups with similar interests to yours, such as hiking, baking, or games. Push your boundaries and be brave - you might find new people who have much in common with you."

Give Back

Priscilla Du Preez

The holiday season is a great time to focus on giving back to your community, and coincidentally, acts of generosity and kindness are known to reduce loneliness and help people feel happier. One study found that knowing a few of your neighbors and doing small acts of kindness for them — such as cheering them up, listening to them, mowing their lawn, providing advice about local business recommendations and job opportunities, and chatting over the fence — was statistically correlated with feeling less lonely and having a lower risk of depression.

Helping out elderly neighbors can be a particularly gratifying way to give back.

"Notice older lonely people in your neighborhood or community who might have no family at all, and offer to help them," says Eichler. "These can become mutually meaningful connections, and help you 'adopt' a grandparent."

Connect With Others Online

Thought Catalog

Finally, use the Internet for its highest and best purpose: to connect people. Whether you're using Meetup to find in-person events, digital forums for having conversations about special interests, or programs like Circle for getting support from others in your situation, the opportunities to create new connections are practically endless.

"There are many interest groups that can be found digitally, where or any person can connect with others in the same life stage, going through the same challenges, or who would like to explore the same interests," Eichler states. "Meaningful connections can be formed easily in these circumstances. The Internet enables us to find and connect to people all over the world who fit this, and to whom we can become more easily attached, as we are able to find people with the exact interests that energize us."

If you're struggling with loneliness, you're not alone. Connect with our digital community of makers and creatives here at Brit+Co by following us on IG and signing up for our newsletter!

This post has been updated.

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10 Amazon Sweater Dresses For Easy, Cozy Fall Outfits

Once fall hits, all I want to do is cozy up in a blanket and settle into my final form: couch potato. But nevertheless, life goes on, and I have meetings, dinners, and dates to attend. My favorite pieces to pull from my closet for this time of year are sweater dresses, hands-down, because they literally feel like I'm wearing a blanket (but I still look put-together). From thick knits to light n' breezy materials, Amazon has a ton of sweater dresses worthy of your cozy seasonal wardrobe. Scroll on for 10 styles I will absolutely be stocking up on to look and feel my best!

Amazon

Anrabess Long Sleeve Oversized Cable Knit Sweater Dress

Anything with a chunky cable knit is a perfect fit for fall and winter. Case in point is this adorably comfy sweater dress that features long sleeves and the ideal mini length to pair with tall boots!

Amazon

Saodimallsu V-Neck Long Sleeve Sweater Dress

This is a totally work-ready sweater dress. The contrasting trim, collar, and buttons polish up the piece a bit, and since it's meant to be form-fitting, it hugs your figure in the most flattering way. It also comes in 5 more colors to suit your personal style!

Amazon

Zesica Waffle Knitted Sweater Dress

The waffle knit texture on this sweater dress feels so comfy, you'll want to wear it all season long. As opposed to other cozy sweater dresses, this pick also has a playful tie-waist to cinch you in and add some flair to your 'fit.

Amazon

Oyoangle V-Neck Sleeveless Knitted Short Sweater Dress

This sleeveless sweater dress is the perfect contender for fall and winter layering. It'll work well over a light turtleneck or button-down blouse, especially if you need more coverage amidst the chilly weather. The front side features two adorable pockets for stowing away small essentials, too!

Amazon

Anrabess Long Sleeve Tie Waist Sweater Dress

This chocolate brown color is gonna get me every time! It's a great seasonal hue to sport during the fall and winter months, plus, it wears well with everything. I'd pair this pick with some black riding boots and an oversized denim jacket for an easy (and very comfortable) outfit formula.

Amazon

Lillusory Mock Turtleneck Sweater Dress

The puff sleeves and turtleneck on this thick-knit sweater dress will come in handy on cold days. For even more coverage (while still looking cute), layer this style over some tights or thermal leggings and slip into your fave loafers or boots. Easy peasy!

Amazon

Wiholl Long Sleeve Midi Dress

This sweater dress wears a little lighter since the material is thinner than most, but that just sets you up for total comfort and freedom of movement as you go about your day. The leg slit is super timeless and lets your look air out a bit. You can easily style this item up or down depending on the occasion!

Amazon

Zesica Backless Pullover Sweater Dress

Oh, elegance! I love the off-the-shoulder look with this sweater dress. It definitely feels like the perfect contender for a fall date night. This design has a wrap dress effect that's polished off with a cute tie waist that you can use to shape your look even more. Pair it with a pair of tall boots, and you're set!

Amazon

LookbookStore Square Neck Sweater Dress

This is a great basic sweater dress, but it still holds some flair to set your look apart, thanks to the leg slit and femme square neckline. The sleeves are slightly flared, too, adding a dash of playfulness! This basic black color is a must if you're building out your capsule wardrobe since it's easily wearable with a whole array of colors.

Amazon

Saodimallsu Striped Sweater Dress

Polo stripes are everything, and this sweater dress is covered in 'em. The plunging v-neck and button-down details on this pick make it feel more formal, and you could even wear it as a longline cardigan if you choose to leave the buttons undone. You can also shop 5 more cute colorways if this red and white combo isn't your exact style.

Subscribe to our newsletter to shop more trending styles!

Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

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Zach Bryan & Brianna Chickenfry's Break Up Is COMPLICATED — Here's What To Know

Zach Bryan and Brianna "Chickenfry" LaPaglia's explosive breakup is everywhere right now. From his seemingly one-sided social media posts to all the bombshell revelations she keeps dropping, it's clear this split is NOT amicable. Both parties are dropping tons of lore, info, and everything in between — including new music?! — right now, so it makes sense if you can't keep up. Luckily, I'm here to help break this breakup down for you! Here's everything you need to know about Zach Bryan and Brianna Chickenfry's relationship...or lack thereof.

Neilson Barnard/Getty Images for The Recording Academy

October 22, 2024 – Zach Bryan Announces His Breakup With Brianna Chickenfry

On October 22, 2024, after some recent speculation that Zach Bryan and Brianna Chickenfry split up, Zach took to his Instagram stories. The country star said, "Addressing something: Brianna and me have broken up with [each other] and I respect and love her with every ounce of my heart. She has loved me unconditionally for a very long time and for that I'll always thank her."

He continued, noting, "I have had an incredibly hard year personally and struggled through some pretty severe things. I thought it would be beneficial for both of us to go our different ways. I am not perfect and never will be. Please respect Brianna's privacy and space in this and if you have it in your heart, mine too."

To wrap it all up, he closed by apologizing to his fans. He said, "With everything I am and to anyone I let down, I am sorry. I try my best in everything. I failed people that love me and mostly myself."

www.youtube.com

- YouTube

Brianna hopped on her own Instagram stories shortly there after. She posted, "Hey guys I'm feeling really blindsided right now. Gonna hop off social media for a while and attempt to heal privately, when I'm ready I'll be back and ready to talk. I love you guys so much thank you for all of your kind words. Remember you are so loved and everything's always gonna be okay 🫶"

The Brianna got on Youtube next, posting a raw, emotional video about the situation. Sitting on the floor of her bathroom, she opened up as much as she could in the moment about her breakup. She said, "I just woke up to Zach posting on his Instagram that we broke up and I had no idea that post was going up. He didn't text me, he didn't call me. I just woke up to a bunch of texts, like, 'Are you okay?'"

Brianna, with her teary eyes and red face, explained she's been crying for "five days straight." She said, "I'm at the point where it's like, how can you give someone everything and love them so unconditionally, like through stuff that you shouldn't because you just love them and you want them... like you see the good in them?"

The internet personality said that this is all "so embarrassing" and "really, really heartbreaking." She elaborated that the couple broke up on October 21, but wanted to process on her own and "didn't want it to be public."

Much like her Instagram story, she told her audience that she'll come back when she's ready.

www.youtube.com

- YouTube

November 7, 2024 — Brianna Claims Zach's Emotionally Abusive, Wanted $12Mil NDA

Well, it appears this week, Brianna decided she's ready. On Barstool Sports' BFF's Pod November 7, 2024, Brianna gave an inside look at the breakup unlike any other. Not only did she claim Zach was abusive, but she also alleged that he offered her a $12 million NDA to "not talk about the relationship."

After saying it's been the hardest year of her life, she said. "I'm still scared right now because I'm scared of him. My brain's rewired and I'm scared to make him mad and last week, I didn't want to talk about it 'cause I was scared."

Brianna then described the alleged emotional abuse. She noted that everything was cyclical and that he would build her up only to break her back down again. "There was always another excuse as to why he was treating me so poorly and why I'm crying myself to sleep every night, why he's screaming at me," she said. "And then you wake up, it's the apology, it's the 'I'm going to be better like I need you in my life,' but if you've been through this — I don't expect people to understand emotional abuse if you haven't been through it. I hope you never have to go through it but if you've been there you know what I'm talking about."

Not only does Brianna allege she was offered an NDA, but she said that other women that came before her had to sign their own agreements. She declined the offer because she didn't want to "sign away [her] experiences and what [she] went through to protect someone that hurt [her]." She also wanted to share this experience for other women who've suffered something similar.

And when it comes to the logistics of losing out on the famous lifestyle and alleged $12 million? She said, "It was never about the money — I was with the dude because I loved the dude."

Jason Kempin/Getty Images for Pilgrimage Music & Cultural Festival

November 8, 2024 — Zach Quit Touring Amid Abuse Allegations

On November 8, 2024, Zach posted on Instagram — where he clearly loves to share all his big news — that not only is his new single "High Road" out today, but that he's also ending his tour early. Read his full statement here:

After not being home for a year and a half I drove out to my mothers gravestone in the dead of night a few days back on familiar Oklahoma roads and I came to realize just like in the past, that she never would call me again

Told her I quit touring because I got accepted to get my masters in Paris next year, I told her I was back in Oklahoma, told her about all my best friends in New York and all the nights we howled with the moon, told her about the immeasurable laughter my band and me have shared these last five years, all the calluses on my finger tips, every tear shed, told her about making it on The Rolling Stone and most importantly told her about porch swinging with my beautiful sister.
I wrote the chorus for this song a month or two back and finished it when I realized I was blessed with all these things.

I figured it was about time I released it.

Thank you guys for listening to ‘This Worlds a Giant’ last night and thank you to all the people who love me; who have truly carried the weight with me.

Seems that all these Quiet Dreams have gotten much too heavy but I’m home now and I’ll hold you through the pain.

High Road is out today and I appreciate all of you"

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83 Budget-Friendly Finds Under $30 That'll Have You Gifting Ready This Season

Discover 83 Amazon products under $30 that are nothing short of pure gold. From stylish fashion finds to the latest beauty trends, these steals offer exceptional value without compromising on quality. We always ask, what's better than the perfect gift? Well, it's the gift that also doesn't break the bank! We're confident you'll find something in here to at least appease a few loved ones this holiday season.

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