• I really want my boyfriend to get a sweater vest, but he thinks they'd make him look nerdy. I think they're hot, what do you guys think?

  - Melissa, Boston

• Well, we're on your side. As the seasons change, a sweater vest is any easy way of adding a layer for warmth (and style) while still keeping relatively cool on those sunny autumn days. They look great with a rumpled oxford on the weekend, under a blazer at the office or even with a slim polo on the golf course. Of course, he's not entirely wrong in his assumption—there is a slight poindexter feel, but what's wrong with that? It's called geek chic for a reason.

  Merino cable knit, $119 at Ralph Lauren

Get This Look

Lambswool Fair Isle
$78
at J.Crew

Cotton stripe
$20 (on sale)
at Gap

Wool waistcoat
$156
by Opening Cermony, N.Y./L.A.

FYI

Who you callin' nerdy? See Doug, Archie and Seth Cohen.

More on Sweaters

I've been seeing a lot of jackets and sweaters with elbow patches lately. I like the look of them. What do you think?

For those of us in California, what do you recommend for a 68-degree autumn day?

I'd like to invest in some quality cashmere sweaters, but I'm confused on all the price ranges and thicknesses.

You guys were just at fashion week. What trends were you seeing, both good and bad for next fall?