I wanted a hoodie to layer for a fall/winter staple, so I searched “merino blend zip hoodie cardigan”, and this is what came up. It is amazing in every. single. way. Be aware that is is not 100% merino wool (which I knew when I ordered), in fact it has just 6%, but it might as well be for how nice it is. It is a nice mid-weight that could be worn 3 seasons making a great layering piece. It looks substantial and yes, expensive (which it is not). It is nicely ribbed, very soft and fits perfectly: true to size, just at hipbone length, not too short or long. It is not boxy, but neither is it too fitted. It lays smoothly without showing lumps or bumps. I was able to fold the waist under a bit so it sat right at my waist without being bunchy, (which is my preference) but it could also be worn straight down for those who want it a bit longer. The bottom and sleeves are straight, no cuffs or band, which makes it clean and modern looking. The string for the hood is capped on the ends with brass, which makes it look even more upscale. In short, this sweater is a must have basic for all the cool kids. 😉 It’s perfect for everything from layering with my down vest and sneakers to events and business casual. It looks like triple the money I paid. I got the gorgeous avocado-like green, and am going back for the neutrals to wear with everything I own. My sisters are each getting one for Christmas too! For reference, I am 5’4”, 130 lbs and I ordered the small. Read more
First, I want to say I think this is a passably nice sweater. I don’t agree with the claim that it’s a wool sweater when there’s only about 6% wool in it, but I still like it. Also, any amount of wool will generally make a clothing item warmer, even if it’s only a small amount. The colors look is true to the product photos. The only thing besides the size that was off about the sweater I received was that they used a gunmetal-colored zipper with silver-toned caps for the pull string, which I don’t personally mind. About the size, this is the second “wool” sweater I’ve received from this company. I measured myself before ordering. I possess tailoring knowledge, so I measure myself accurately. However, in both cases, I received sweaters that were considerably smaller than what was stated in the size chart. I got an XL in this zip-up, which states it has a 53.5 inch bust and is 27.2 inches in length. Neither of those measurements were accurate. The length is closest. Out of the package, it was just over an inch shorter than specified, and I managed to stretch it to within a half inch of what it’s supposed to be (a tall lady’s gotta do what a tall lady’s gotta do). The width was the factor that had me scratching my head because my bust measurement is about eight inches smaller than the bust specified on the size chart, and yet it was skin tight right out of the package. Even if they based the width on the dimensions of the sweater itself, I should have been able to fit it without a problem. And this is the second time this sort of issue has come up with this brand. I scratched my head trying to think of how such a large discrepancy could have happened, and I think I might know. They’ve listed the size chart in inches, and they’ve left dust to assume that measurement corresponds with the all-around measurement of the bust. However, I think the measurement should actually be interpreted in centimeters. In the case of the sweater I ordered and received, 53.5 inches corresponds with about 21.25 inches (just eyeballing it on a measuring tape), which seems to correlate with the measurement of this sweater as measured flat across, meaning you’d have to double it to get the full bust measurement (about 42.5 inches in my case). My bust is 45 inches. This sweater has to stretch to fit me. It seems to work out logically. Also, this sweater was said to be made of mostly anti-pilling nylon and anti-pilling acrylic. I knew the anti-pilling acrylic wasn’t going to be a lie because anyone who’s ever knitted with acrylic yarn knows it pills, and there’s nothing you can do to stop it except lightly melt it. This garment doesn’t seem to have been lightly melted. I was still hoping there would be such a thing as anti-pilling nylon, but there doesn’t seem to be because I’ve only worn it once around the house (because it’s so tight), and it’s already pilling in several places without even having been through the wash. This is the reason I removed one star. So, if you like this sweater and want to order it, convert the bust inches to centimeters, then double it. Read more
I got this item through the Vine program in exchange for an honest and unbiased review. The Women’s Merino Wool Blend Cardigan by Ciovkis stood out because of its soft Merino wool blend, flattering fit, and casual zip-up hooded design. After testing it for several days during cool fall weather, here’s what I found: A stylish, lightweight hooded cardigan with quality detailing —ideal for layering in cooler weather. I ordered large, one size up than usual and the fit was good, especially since I plan on wearing layers underneath. I wanted a midweight cardigan with natural fibers for layering over shirts without feeling bulky. The inclusion of 5% Merino wool promised a touch of warmth and softness without the high price or care requirements of 100% Merino. Pros: • Color and fit are true to the listing. The green tone matches product photos exactly. • Softness: While not plush like pure Merino, the blend feels comfortable and wearable all day. • Hardware: Metal end caps on the drawstrings and smooth zipper pulls give it a premium touch. • Construction: Even stitching, clean seams, and professionally finished edges. • Fit: Feminine shape without being tight; ordering one size larger worked well for layering. • Versatility: Looks polished enough for errands or travel, casual enough for lounging. Cons: • Zipper: The double-zipper design can be a bit finicky to start. It took some patience to line up, but went smooth once it did. • Softness: Average rather than luxurious, which aligns with the 5% Merino content. Compared to 100% Merino sweaters, this one feels less insulating but easier to care for and less prone to stretching. It’s better structured than most cotton-blend hoodies in this price range. A great buy for anyone wanting a refined, lightweight cardigan with functional details and dependable construction. Best for mild to cool climates, travel, or layering comfort. At around $45 fair market value, it’s excellent quality for the price. Read more