I have two of these sweaters (solid colors) and both seem poorly constructed in the placket / buttons area. The fit looks as if the buttons are pulling, like the sweater is too small. It is not, but I think the construction is poor and the sweater does not drape well.
During the earlier part of the summer I ordered the fine gauge sweater in navy, a bright pink and foliage. I love them. They are very soft to the touch, and the extra large is large enough to fit my long arms, and even cuff, and it can be comfortably worn with a blouse or shell underneath. To say the least, they are generously cut, with style. that said..I was anxious to receive the duck print, thinking it was the same. And I loved the print! My first surprise was at the stiffness of the knit. And though I took the sweater away to Canada with me, I never wore it due to the warm weather in mid-August...it was to my surprise this past week, that besides having an inferior fabric to the former knits, it is also that much smaller. The buttons bulge in the front when closed. I was very disappointed because I love the duck print! It's never been worn, and now has to be returned.
I purchased two sweaters of this type: the fine gauge polka dot print and the fine gauge solid print. Depending on the pattern you purchase, they are entirely different types of material. The dotted print was thinner with less stretch, (and in my opinion less quality) and fits a bit larger than the solid color, which has more stretch to it because of the lycra. Also, all the sweaters I ordered had nicks or defects in them-even upon exchange, there were still defects in the yarn. Needless to say the experience was suprisingly disappointing for LL Bean. Unless changes were recently made to these garments ( I ordered mine in August/09) I would recommend to others not to order these sweaters unless you request a quality check before they are sent and expect that the quality, depending on the print/solid varies.
I love the fit and feel of this sweater. It has been worn and washed several times. I HIGHLY recommend you do NOT place in the dryer, it will shrink slightly. I noticed shrinkage in the length, and across the bust. I am a 12-14 on top and an 8 on bottom. The large was a perfect fit! I LOVE THE DUCKS!!
