How to style sweaters

2025 Jul 22nd

How to Layer and Style Sweaters

When the leaves and snow start to fall, it’s time to have fun with layers for both warmth and style. And the key to unlocking endless winter outfit options is a diverse sweater collection. In this article we’ll go over how to style various sweaters along with some recommendations for key pieces that will give your closet maximum versatility and longevity.

 

Knit Sweaters  

Oh sweaters. Where to start. The combinations of necklines, knits, patterns, closures, and colours is nearly endless. Deciding where to begin can throw you for a loop.  

 

But there’s one easy choice: knits. Whether they’re chunky, cabled, colourful, or collared, they’re all good options for both coziness and styling. You can go with cashmeres and turtlenecks that can be classy, casual, or comfy (or some combo of any of the above). Knits with collars such as polos can add a touch of sophistication to any outfit along with laidback comfort. Colourful varieties can be statement pieces that bring a little flair to your ensemble. A bonus is that they’re warm, especially wool blend varieties. 

 

But how do you style a knitted sweater? The options are easy and nearly endless. Pair a knit with dark wash jeans or trousers to the office for an effortless yet elegant outfit. For casual situations, create a luxurious lounging ensemble with an oversized sweaterandleggings. This can also be a great choice for a comfortable but classy airport outfit for those holiday visits home., create a luxurious lounging ensemble with an oversized sweaterandleggings. This can also be a great choice for a comfortable but classy airport outfit for those holiday visits home. 

Then you can also try wearing a chunky knit over a dress or with a skirt for an eclectic look, whether it’s a crew neck, button- up cardi, or V-neck. A more fitted knit with a dress or skirt can be a little classier and office or party appropriate.  

 

Still not sure where to start? We recommend refining yoursweater collection with cozy cable knit or regular length button up cardigan. Both are versatile, easy to wear, and stylish options. 

A person wearing a sweater holding a drink, standing in a cozy indoor setting.

HOW TO LAYER AND STYLE SWEATERS

When the leaves and snow start to fall, it’s time to have fun with layers for both warmth and style. And the key to unlocking endless winter outfit options is a diverse sweater collection. In this article we’ll go over how to style various sweaters along with some recommendations for key pieces that will give your closet maximum versatility and longevity. 

Boyfriend Fashion: What Is It and Where Did It Come From   

 

The term is used when women incorporate traditionally masculine, more loosely fitting or oversized pieces into their own outfits.   

 

But what's the story behind the term "boyfriend"? It probably playfully refers to when women borrow clothing items from their boyfriends or partners. That might be why it’s usually applied to more casual clothes like jeans, shirts, and sweatpants that women might throw on after a sleepover.  

 

Legend has it that Marilyn Monroe pioneered the boyfriend look when she added men’s jeans and button-ups into her wardrobe — pieces she presumably appropriated from a romantic partner’s closet.  

 

That’s probably an urban legend though!  

 

Still, it’s likely Monroe helped popularize the look. She famously wore jeans and button-up collared shirts in films like The Misfits and Clash by Night.

Knit Sweaters   

 

Oh sweaters. Where to start. The combinations of necklines, knits, patterns, closures, and colours is nearly endless. Deciding where to begin can throw you for a loop.  

 

 

But there’s one easy choice: knits. Whether they’re chunky, cabled, colourful, or collared, they’re all good options for both coziness and styling. You can go with cashmeres and turtlenecks that can be classy, casual, or comfy (or some combo of any of the above). Knits with collars such as polos can add a touch of sophistication to any outfit along with laidback comfort. Colourful varieties can be statement pieces that bring a little flair to your ensemble. A bonus is that they’re warm, especially wool blend varieties. 

 

But how do you style a knitted sweater? The options are easy and nearly endless. Pair a knit with dark wash jeans or trousers to the office for an effortless yet elegant outfit. For casual situations, create a luxurious lounging ensemble with an oversized sweaterandleggings. This can also be a great choice for a comfortable but classy airport outfit for those holiday visits home. 

Then you can also try wearing a chunky knit over a dress or with a skirt for an eclectic look, whether it’s a crew neck, button- up cardi, or V-neck. A more fitted knit with a dress or skirt can be a little classier and office or party appropriate.  

 

Still not sure where to start? We recommend refining yoursweater collection with cozy cable knit or regular length button up cardigan. Both are versatile, easy to wear, and stylish options.

Mohair Sweaters

 

A little glamourous and little granny (in a good way) this style can be high fashion or just cozy. Paired with some seemingly juxtaposed pieces, it’s a great way to make a statement. These fuzzy friends are a 90s throwback that are sure to add a little character to any outfit, bold or understated. Mohairs can also be knit, but the angora wool gives it a much fuzzier appearance. This, along with its ability to take dyes more readily, makes it a go-to for funkier styles  

 

Pair it with trendy wide leg or flared pants and any kind of platform shoe for a 60s inspired eclectic look or wear it over a dress or skirt with some chunky leather shoes for a 90s vibe.  

 

You don’t always have to go with an out-there look with mohair, though. For an office-ready outfit, you could try a button-up cardigan mohair in a neutral colour – a fun but understated little piece you can leave at your desk for those drafty days.  

 

If you’re looking for a place to start with mohair, a simple button up cardigan in a black or navy is fun and versatile. This style will be a little more subdued than a mohair turtleneck or crew neck. If you want to step it up right away, you can always go with a pastel or brighter colour.

Novelty Sweaters

 

It’s always fun to have the option to go with fun and loud designs—and not just jokey Christmas sweaters. Having some sweaters in bold but classic patterns like houndstooth, checkers, or plaid can add character to an outfit. Houndstooth, for example, is a traditional but modern-feeling pattern that can make a statement.   

 

If you want something that makes for a Christmas sweater but has the versatility to be worn other times of year, a Fair Ilse knit can be a choice investment. This design comes from the look of traditional sweaters from the Shetland islands. They feature a pattern around the neck that sometimes fan out to the rest of the body. It’s holiday ready but equally appropriate for fall walks or winter getaways.

Striped Sweaters

 

These sweaters are an easy win. Vertical or horizontal stripes in various versions (uniform or more sporadic) go well with denim, trousers, or leggings. Black on white or white on black are classic colours, but other stripe combinations can work as well.   

 

An example of this classic style look is our Breton sweater. It was even featured in Elle magazine and proved so popular that we could barely hold onto them. Keep an eye out as we may be getting more, but in the meantime, we have plenty more striped sweater choices for you to browse.

Sweater Vests: Sleeveless Sweater

 

These are a fashionable way to add an understated layer to your ensemble. Sweater vests can be a conventional or eclectic addition to your ensemble. A classic pairing is jeans and a poplin shirt, but you can also wear it over long sleeve tees, a light turtleneck, or dress. Wearing it underneath a blazer is another good choice. It’s a great way to add a little tailored-looking sophistication to any look, or some juxtaposition, depending on the outfit.   

 

At the end of the day, you want to have enough options to enjoy layering season as much as possible. Having three to five solid sweater choices is all you really need to unlock a myriad of looks. Make sure you find some garments that fit your personal style and help you feel fashionable and confident. When you’re ready, Ricki’s has got you covered. Browse our collection online or visit us in-person for all your sweater weather needs. 

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