This is an ultimate style guide for women breaking down all the important tips on how to wear sweaters. So grab a cup of coffee or tea as you sit to read this article.
Whether worn as an outer layer, a wrap-around your neck, or a substitute for a jacket, sweaters are your ultimate multi-tasker piece of apparel. It protects you from the AC at the workplace in summer, and it keeps you warm and cozy when the temperature goes chilly.
While sweaters are often used for layering, they can easily transform into a scarf. It can be worn with jeans, slacks, skirts, dresses or leggings, and it can also be worn over a collared shirt. There are many things that you can do with a knitted sweater. However, sweaters aren´t made simply as second fiddle. They can also be your standout piece.
Before we dive in on how to wear sweaters and all the stylish outfits ideas on wearing sweaters for women, let´s first review the types of women´s sweaters.
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How to Wear Sweaters: Identify the Types of Women’s Sweaters and Necklines
1. Boyfriend sweater.
An oversized, often cardigan sweater, with a flaterring deep V-neck or at times in cardigan style, a Boyfriend sweater is great company to casual gatherings or weekend escapades.
2. Crewneck sweater.
With its high, rounded neck, a Crewneck sweater is perfect for layering during cold seasons, especially underneath a jacket.
3. Cardigan.
A machine or hand-knitted sweater, usually buttons down and collarless, a cardigan is your easy pick-me-up. It can have a round neck or a V-neck, it can be long or short, fitted or oversized.
4. Turtle Neck.
Turtle neck sweaters are your classic pieces, elegant and are layering essentials. Whether it is with classic-fold overneck or a looser, all the same, they´re flattering.
5. Grandpa cardigan.
A grandpa cardigan often features a shawl collar, although more classic versions are without it, buttons down, and usually with front patch pockets. It´s cozy, snuggly, and a bit oversized.
6. V-neck sweater.
Comes as a sexy, fitted, deep V-neck or slightly looser menswear inspired-style, can be worn with solo or with a t-shirt underneath, a V-neck sweater inspires you to showcase a scarf.
7. Mock neck sweater.
A mock neck is like a turtleneck but its knit band is short and it does not fold over. Look for chunky stitched or raised stitched for a super cozy feel.
8. Chunky cowl neck sweater.
Cowl neck is everyone´s bestfriend, it flatters any type of figure. You options start from poncho style cowl neck to peplum-inspired hem with chunky cowl. If you´re looking for modern sophistication, opt for a draped cashmere cowl sweater.
9. Funnel neck sweater.
Funnel neck is typically not your best choice for cold days but recently, we´ve seen this neck style spinned around to brave the temperature. Think contrast banding details for the funnel neckline and edges of Theory´s houndstooth sweater, or Thakoon´s rolled funnel collar on a cable knit.
How to Wear Sweaters: Wear a loose knit sweater
I´ve been collecting loose knitted sweaters for about five years now, especially those with dropped shoulders and bell-shaped sleeves. I enjoy wearing anything cozy, chunky, and bulky. When it comes to wearing them, thankfully there are many inspirations to look up to from the runway. But the way I style my loose knitted sweaters is actually simple – since my sweater is bulky, I pair it with fitted trousers, shorts, or skirts. Roomy on top, skinny on the bottom. Always.
However, there are many ways to get creative with a loose knitted sweater. The following outfits from the runway are fun to try.
1. Get a white loose knitted sweater (with cocoon sleeves) and pair it with some roomy trousers.
This look featuring a white chunky sweater seems very comfortable. It´s a casual look by Stella McCartney which is chic and sophisticated. The cocoon sleeves are promising “comfort”, and you can level up that coziness by matching your sweater with a soft, drapey and roomy trousers. Keep your footwear sporty flat.
2. Spice up a loose knitted sweater in gray, with white pull-over and white tights.
A very unique look you can sport is a round shaped, loose knitted sweater with cut-out on each side for your arms. Have fun layering it with a matching pull-over and tights. Choose a pair of shoes that match your sweater for a very cohesive result.
3. Wear a two-toned oversized sweater and mixed it up with a below-the-knee patterned skirt
There´s no better way to create a striking, cozy look with multiple statement-making pieces than wearing a two-toned oversized sweater with cable knit design such as this Dries Van Noten number. A black and white combo is classic. The moment it´s paired with a gorgeous patterned skirt, it makes a luscious mix. Opt for a below-the-knee skirt for a change.
4. Let a white knitted sweater dress, with oversized cocoon sleeves, shine by wearing it alone.
A very girly and modern interpretation of chunky sweaters is this cocoon-sleeved white sweater dress by Stella McCartney. How fabulous it´s gonna be to stroll the streets wearing only this stylish outsize knit and comfy yet attention-grabber flats? But this look is impossible to wear as is here in our side of the world due to the current cold temperature. If it´s too chilly for you too, I suggest layering it up with thick tights and white half boots.
5. Create a vibrant mix with your loose knitted sweater.
Choose a bright oversized sweater with striking cowl neck, and pair it with a mini skirt. The skirt should be from the same color family but with a lighter shade. Metallic boots and an animal print structured bag are going to be your best friends when rocking this look.
6. Get cozy in a cloak-like, loose knitted sweater.
Strut an extremely oversized knitted sweater with flowing drapes and tall folded cowl neck. Pair it with white knee-length Indian-inspired boots.
This outfit is best if you´re into basic palettes, say you´re a minimalist, but still look cute while bundled up. A super drapey oversized sweater with lavish cowl neck, which assures a compact protection for your neck, and diagonal drapes on the hems, which look like super long shawls, this look is not just about getting cozy but sort of creating a statement. Transition from top to down with a pair of killer, fringed white boots.
7. Go for an oversized, knitted V-neck Sweater.
Upgrade a gray oversized wrap-around sweater with V-neck by wearing it with a sexy mini-skirt. V-neck wrap-around oversized sweaters are rare. This number is from Reed krakoff 2011 sweaters collection. Give your gray item an upgrade by wearing it with a sexy mini-skirt. It´s something not everybody expects you to don on this chilly season. You can either stay on a single tone look or inject color to your outfit by opting for a brighter skirt.
8. Inject nomadic style to your knit outfit by opting for an Ecru and multiprinted oversized knit pullover.
Give your style a twist by creating a blast-from-the-past, flashback look with this nomadic-inspired Ecru and multiprinted oversized knit pullover with hanging woven fringe around the bust and back. This loose knitted sweater number is of Isable Marant. You´re to look clean, cozy yet edgy in this outfit. Pair it with your favorite white skinny jeans and nude boots.
9. Look cute by wearing a single color ensemble, everything in brown.
When it comes to bulky, oversized knitted sweaters, brown is the new black. This brown oversized sweater with thick long sleeves and slim turtleneck is by Michael Kors. The idea of this look is to keep everything in your outfit tonal. This sweater is paired with brown silk trousers and brown peep-toe pumps. You can create your version in a different shade and apply this idea.
How to wear sweaters to work
Sweaters – pullovers or cardigans – are integral parts of your work outfit. They´re the easiest things to throw over your shoulders when the air condition gets too cold in summer, or when the weather outside calls for you to bundle up.
The peplum frenzy has now frizzled out but you can be sure that the style still lingers, in the runway or in your favorite online boutiques. If you´re looking for a way to sizzle your office wardrobe, peplum sweater is something you should consider (if you haven´t yet).
1. Peplum Jumper over a Sheath Dress.
We´re used to seeing rib cage sweaters worn with pencil skirts to work. This time though, let´s give it a punch! Take this coral rib cage peplum sweater to layer over this season´s must-have sheath dress in beautiful black floral. Then add a colorblock nude and black grab bag and a pair of smart black pumps. You can also choose to wear black opaque stockings if you prefer to level up the professionalism of the look. This outfit is perfect for late fall.
2. Peplum Jumper with Suit Trouser.
Although jacquard suit trousers would look ultra-powerful with a matching suit blazer, you can keep the power of the look while enjoying comfort and style if you team the trousers up with a matching peplum rib cage sweater. Accessorized with all black – pumps and bag – you have an outfit that can take you from boardroom to catching up with the clients, but with a touch of flair.
3. Black Peplum Cardigan with Black Ankle Trousers.
Give your black and white monochrome a gorgeous update with this beautiful black peplum cardigan. Although you can wear this darling pretty much with anything, try layering it over a white button shirt. Make sure to button up the top button to emphasize the crisp collars against the backdrop of black cardigan.
4. Button Cowl Neck
I used to work in a very stressful environment and it made me hate Sunday nights because it meant Monday was coming and it´s back to work. To beat the negative feeling, I paid attention to my work outfit. I wore outfits that inspired me to get out of the house and go to work.
Make yourself feel good with what you´re wearing and that positive energy will channel to your work. For Mondays, try a bright yellow sweater with a matching suit and skirt.
5. Elbow-Sleeve Ribbed Cable.
Tuesdays still used to be a struggle, just a day after Monday, so I kept maintaining that glam vibe with my work outfit.
Try dressing up an elbow sleeve ribbed-cable sweater with a gorgeous scarf, a flattering skirt, and a pair of stunning, leather riding boots.
6. Velvet Cardigan.
I would always wake up with renewed energy on Wednesdays because it meant that Friday is so close.
Keep things easy for this day with a striped sweater with black skinny pants, black ankle boots, cute slim belt, and a striking rose-pink cardigan. I´m really looking forward for the next day.
How to wear sweaters with jeans
Here are eight ways to look chic, elegant, or casual smart in a knitted sweater.
1. How to wear sweaters with jeans: Yellow Sweater with Black Skinny Jeans.
There is a stunning element of contrast between yellow and black. If you want to achieve a really good pop of yellow, wear it with black. Layer a yellow rib sweater over a white button-down, make sure to fasten the top button, and then complete the layering with black skinny jeans and black ankle boots.
2. Ribbed High-Neck Sweater Worn with Boyfriend Jeans.
This high-neck sweater with wide 3/4 length sleeves is made for display, not to be worn under a jacket. Thus, it´s perfect for early fall or middle to late spring when the weather is cool but not freezing. Keep the look casual fresh yet elegant with distressed boyfriend jeans and pumps. Notice that keeping the colors neutral keep things polished ad elegant.
3. Chopin Sweater Worn with Casual Jeans and Sneakers.
For a laid back weekend outfit, team up a navy blue jumper with dark blue jeans. Add a subtle contrast of colors by layering under your jumper a white tee (make sure its hem is longer that the jumper) for a nice colorblock. Complete the look with some dark sneakers or slip ons.
4. How to wear sweaters with jeans: Slouchy knitted sweater with boyfriend jeans.
My favorite way of wearing my slouchy knits is with jeans. Usually, I lean towards skinny jeans, but lately, being a new mom I find myself navigating towards mom jeans. Who says mom jeans aren´t stylish? They´re comfortable, yes, but they can be cute too. It´s just about how you carry them.
How to wear sweaters with comfy trousers
1. Slouchy Sweater with Pepper Gathered Trousers.
A slouchy look is great for slim (and preferably tall) women. If you´re endowed with those gifts, I envy you for your ability to rock a tandem of slouchy jumper and menswear-inspired gathered trousers.
2. How to wear sweaters with comfy trousers: Roll Neck Sweater with Printed Crop Pants.
In winter, roll neck jumpers are one of my favorite tops and I usually layer it under a cardigan. But for a change, I want to try a stepped hemline roll neck jumper and let it speak for itself by wearing it with dark print trousers and black ankle boots. To brave the cold outdoor, I´ll throw over a cocoon coat.
3. Black Sweater with Black Pencil Trousers.
Some people dislike an all-black combination. “Too dark” or “too dull”, they say. I used to put a lot of thought when I create an all-black outfit because I´m concerned that I will end up a wall background, but the more that I observe Victoria Beckham´s minimalist style, the more that I appreciate the elegance of an all-black.
Partner a black sweater with a pair of pencil cut black trousers. To add a hint of color, go for gray or maroon pumps.
4. How to wear sweaters with comfy trousers: Slouchy knitted sweater + menswear trousers.
For events where you´d like to seal your stylish image, brave the slouchy knit mixed with menswear trousers. Powerful pointed-toe ankle boots are your spot on finishers.
How to wear sweaters with skirts
Do you love wearing knitted sweaters with skirts in fall or even winter? These outfit ideas will surely inspire you.
1. Slouchy knitted sweater + leather pencil skirt.
If you´re wearing the slouchy knitted sweater to formal functions, steal Rosie-Huntington-Whiteley`s look and partner it with a black knee-length leather pencil skirt. If the weather is warmer, go bare legged with ankle strapped sandals. If it´s cold, opt for pointed-toe black ankle boots or tall boots.
2. How to wear sweaters with skirts: Zip Detail Sweater Worn with Sequined Skirt.
How creative are you in styling sweaterss for work? Stretch your creative muscles this season; try this cutting-edge zip detail sweater from French Connection. It´s perfect to layer over a white roll neck jumper and to partner with a winter mist sequinned pencil skirt. Then finish up with pointed toe pumps. You will get a comfortable, cozy and fashionable work-appropriate look.
3. High Neck Sweater with Printed Pencil Skirt.
One style trick to quickly add fab to a simple white sweater is to partner it with a printed skirt. As you can see in this look, the printed pencil skirt has a white on it which makes the outfit combination harmonious. To wear it to work, add a pair of black pumps. To wear it to other functions, go edgy with black ankle boots.
4. How to wear sweaters with skirts: Slouchy knitted sweater with sequined skirt.
If you´re still unsure of what outfit to wear to Christmas or New Year parties, how about a slouchy knitted sweater teamed with a con mini skirt in sequin? Of course, you can also wear this outfit to other dinner parties, even dinner dates.
5. Slouchy knitted sweater with maxi skirt.
I`m really thinking about creating this exact look for the coming spring. I just imagine mixing together a comfy slouchy knit with a comfy maxi skirt and I smile.
6. How to wear sweaters with skirts: Red Cozy Sweater with Gray Wrap Skirt.
Love, love this red dropped shoulder sweater with puffy sleeves partnered with gray wrap-around skirt. Layer it with capri tights and matched with leopard print pumps in fall, or with long tights and tall boots in winter.
7. Nude Wool Sweater Nude Pencil Skirt.
I find a nude wool sweater really cozy. And for petite women like me, teaming it with a nude fitting skirt will lengthen my vertical line. Sleek tights and black ankle boots are great to finish the look.
How to Wear Sweaters: Try the Cable Knit Sweaters
Cable knit sweaters are your best friend when it comes to warm yet polished outfits. This wear-with-everything pullover can be dressed up and down and can be worn to the office and down to the streets. From chunky oversized to cropped, belted or squared cable knit sweaters, this basic looks sophisticated and stylish when paired with unexpected items.
If you´re looking for new ways to style your cable knit sweater, here are twenty looks for you to steal.
Outfit 1. Wear a boat neck cable sweater with leather skirt and laced up over the knee boots for an edgy look. Alternatively, if you want to wear its feminine version, pair it with a long tulip skirt and sexy heels.
Outfit 2. Balance a cable-knit sweater that features a scoop neck and long bell sleeves with more rooms at the bottom. Pair it with extra wide, bell bottom jeans.
Outfit 3. Create a flirty feel with your cable knit sweater, team it with a black leather mini skirt and oxford booties.
Outfit 4. When the weather allows, go for a really trendy look by mixing your vibrant cable knit sweater with cashmere shorts, knee-high socks and ankle boots.
Outfit 5. Bring runway to reality, wear an ivory cable knit sweater over a bias gown or team with a brown leather mini skirt.
Outfit 6. Redefine a long pleated skirt by blending it with a cropped, crew-neck sweater with lattice cable stitches. Complete with T-strap platform pumps.
Outfit 7. Go for a very sophisticated look, pair a white cable knit sweater with a bright belted Hayden trousers.
Outfit 8. Opt for a relax take, wear a crew neck cable knit sweater with faded washed jeans, tucked in and belted.
Outfit 9. Love to turn heads? Choose a Hollywood glam for your cable knit sweater. Wear it belted teamed with a python metallic pants or classic leopard print skirt, finished with attention-grabbing knee-high boots.
Outfit 10. Put a hand on layering. Layer a crew neck cable sweater with bow or dot print blouse with juicy couture medallion lace skirt.
Outfit 11. Take a splendid layers miniskirt and motorcycle ankle boots to go with your cable knit sweater for a very hot look.
Outfit 12. This season is about bright colors. Pick a vibrant cable knit sweater to go with bow shorts and high heel loafers.
Outfit 13. Get a V-neck cable-knit sweater and wear with boyfriend jeans and Madewell Belgian Flat Loafers for a relaxed, boy-meets-girl finish.
Outfit 14. Look smart and put-together, wear a cable knit sweater dress with black tights and black suede ankle boots to work or to date.
Outfit 15. Do twisted vintage look. Wear a cable knit crew neck sweater with below the knee orchad skirt and lace up booties.
Outfit 16. Mimic a French lady. Style your bright cable knit sweater with printed scarf, bow tied. Add a black skirt, tights and maroon tall boots. Throw over a fedora.
Outfit 17. Style an open-knit cable sweaters with a gorgeous cross draped skirt and black leather ankle boots.
Outfit 18. Keep things youthful, team your Boatneck Pullover with a reversible patch pocket skirt, black tights and black ankle boots.
Outfit 19. Colored skinny jeans are still on trend. Pop up its vibrant color by wearing with it a black/gray cable knit cardigan.
Outfit 20. Want to wear cable knit sweater even in summer? What you need is a round neck cropped pullover paired with a lovely crochet shorts.
How to Wear Green Sweaters
I love green hues but the thought of wearing it used to frighten me. Whether it´s a green dress, a green top or sweater, I doubted if I could pull it off. I do admire seeing it on others, but I felt like this color isn´t for me.
But then I realized that it´s purely my pre-conceived thought. Anyone can wear green as long as they choose the right shade of green to flatter their skin tone. So I bought myself a green loose knitted sweater. To my surprise, the sweater looked great on me. It got me really excited that I ended up wearing it many times in different ways.
If you too are thinking of wearing a green sweater, here are three looks to inspire you.
1. Wear Green Sweaters with Skinny Jeans.
Create a casual look by pairing the green sweater with blue jeans and platform ankle boots. To make the look more interesting, layer under the sweater a printed tunic, the peek of print or pattern around the hips is wonderful. But if you need a more polished result, wear your green sweater with dark blue or black jeans.
2. Wear a Green Sweater Dress with Tights.
Wearing a green sweater with tights is great if your sweater is oversized. Since green blends well with neutral colors, stick to black, dark brown or dark blue tights.
3. Wear Green Sweaters with Complementary Colors.
Since green works well with other natural colors, you can create a mild color-block look by mixing in some pieces in complementary palettes. Yellow belt and yellow shoes will smoothly complete the outfit.
It´s an effortless way to bring out the green out of its elements. These hues from the same family of color will blend and spice up each other. Polish the look with neutral pieces such as a gray skirt and a white bag.
To wear a green sweater to work, try layering it over a black turtleneck pullover with brown trousers. Or throw a green cardigan over a black and white monochrome frock.
So tell me, Creative Fashionista, which style of sweater is your favorite and how do you like to wear it?
