Sweater Vest Styling Tips

When paired with the right accessories, sweat vests can be more than just vintage cheerleader uniforms or out-of-touch bankers. 

Choose a turtleneck or mock neck under your sweater vest for a more polished look. A patterned shirt or blouse works well, too.

Layering Options

Once reserved for cheerleaders and out-of-touch bankers, womens sweater vest have become sleek and fashion-forward knit. Whether you opt for a classic color or an eye-catching pattern, there are endless ways to style a sweater vest outfit.

One of the most stylish and easy ways to wear a sweater vest is layered over a crisp, long-sleeve button-up shirt. This look works best with neutral colors or two shades of the same color, but it can also be done with a bold contrasting color for a striking effect.

You can take this look further by adding some statement jewelry to create a dramatic effect. Just make sure your jewelry is consistent with the color of your sweater vest, or it will overpower the look.

Another way to spice up a sweater vest outfit is to add a belt around your waist. It can help define your figure and accentuate the hips, creating a slimming effect.

A scarf is another great accessory to add to a sweater vest outfit. You can choose a scarf in a neutral color that will blend seamlessly with your sweater vest, or you can go for a bold and contrasting color to make a statement. You can drape the scarf around your neck or tie it into a loose, chic knot to complete your outfit.

Coordinating Colors

A sweater vest is a stylish winter layer that works with various outfits. For example, a sweater vest with a white button-front shirt popped up high to peek over the collar is an easy look for business casual or date night. A solid-colored sweater vest can also be layered with a colorful blouse to create a modern fashion look. This outfit works well with jeans or black pants for a polished look that could work in any workplace environment.

Another style trend that pairs nicely with sweater vests is the monochromatic look. A solid-colored sweater vest can be matched with a crisp white shirt or tunic sweater to create a comfortable yet polished look for a casual day out or dinner date. The monochromatic look can also be worn with a sweater dress in the same color as the sweater vest to create a dramatic effect that will work for casual or dressy occasions.

Adding a pop of color to your sweater vest ensembles is always a good idea. Plenty of bright sweater vests, neutral hues, and fun prints exist. A colorful sweater vest can be worn with a white t-shirt or shirt to add contrast and make the outfit stand out, while a neutral sweater vest can be worn with many different colors to give your wardrobe a more balanced look.

Undergarments

When sweater vests started making headlines again in 2019, you could be forgiven for thinking it was another micro-trend that would dissipate as soon as the memes began.

The good news is that there are several ways to work the look into your everyday wardrobe. One simple option is to wear yours over a fitted top, such as a crew neck tee or figure-hugging roll-neck. Choosing a shirt in the same color as your vest can help create a cohesive, put-together look, while a solid-colored shirt incorporating your favorite pattern is also a great choice.

For those who want to play with volume, a longer vest can be worn over a high-waisted skirt or a pair of skinny jeans with tall boots. It can add drama to your outfit and accentuate the shape of your body.

A sweater vest can be paired with a classic white t-shirt for a casual look. It can be a skinny version with cap sleeves or a tailored fit with long sleeves, depending on your preferred face. For a more relaxed look, you can even go for a plaid shirt or oversized shirt with a hoodie underneath. Keep the accessories to a minimum so your sweater vest can take center stage.

Scarves

You can have fun with patterns and colors when you layer sweater vests. If you have a vest in a solid color, try pairing it with a top in a similar hue so the two pieces blend seamlessly. If you’re wearing a patterned sweater vest, choose a plain top like a white t-shirt or a fitted shirt in the same pattern. It balances the look and makes it more visually appealing.

A sweater vest makes updating a classic button-up dress or skirt easy. Pair a short dress or skirt with a longer vest for an above-the-knee effect that looks chic with tall boots. Add a scarf to this outfit for more color and pattern play. A colorful scarf draped around your neck and tied loosely can bring a pop of color to your overall look.

If you’re going for a more casual look, opt for jeans and a sweater vest in a neutral shade. Depending on the weather, you can even add a jacket to this outfit. Try a light cashmere or wool jacket for warmth and a polished appearance. If you want to rock a 90s vibe, opt for a cropped sweater vest in bright red or orange for a flower-child effect. You can keep the look refined by pairing it with tan slacks, a cream blouse, and a brown purse.