It really has an empire waist and there is a little strip of elastic that keeps the shape. It is rather light and the knitting is lose but at the same time a bit stiff. Not soft. There is a chemical smell... feels like it needs to be washed before wearing.

Very cute but runs a bit small. I attempted to get the next size up but it was sold out.

I purchased this sweater to go with a very cute shirt I just bought online from a different retailer, however, in the winter, I hate to feel hot especially at work, so this sweater was perfect with enough "ventatilation" as well as the thickness so that once it's worn with my shirt, I'm not sweating to take it off and still look pretty presentable, especially with the jeans I'm wearing with it.....it's part of the Casual/Dress Down Fridays, but I still look classy. The green is definitely green like the a new crayola crayon. My only downfall to this sweater is the band underneath the breastline was cut a bit close and you're right on the border of your breathing line.....which may not be a bad thing if you want to ease up off of the great food prepared for the holidays!!!!