How to Style a Sweater: 6 Easy Styling Tips

A sweater is a top made of knitted or crocheted material that often features long sleeves. Different types of sweaters feature different necklines, sleeve lengths, openings, and fits. Sweaters are traditionally made from knitted wool, but more modern materials include cotton or synthetic textiles.

Sweaters are the ultimate cold-weather staple, but they can look flat if not styled correctly. Follow these tips to style a sweater for a unique look.

1. 1. Accessorize thoughtfully. Bring some personality to a plain beige sweater with the right accessories. Accent a turtleneck or a deep V-neck with a chunky statement necklace, bold earrings, or a silk neck scarf. Belt an oversized sweater with a thick, embossed cumberbund to add shape.
2. 2. Balance your outfit. Plan your outfit around the shape of your sweater, keeping in mind that the pieces should balance each other out. Pair a chunky oversized sweater with form-fitting bottoms such as pencil skirts or skinny jeans. Style a fitted sweater like a ribbed knit turtleneck with looser bottoms like straight-leg jeans or corduroys.
3. 3. Try a casual look. Curate a casual sweater outfit that still showcases your personality. Classic styles like Fair Isle or cable-knit sweaters complement modern, edgy pieces like faux leather or patterned leggings. Style an all-black classic look with a fitted sweater, structured blazer, distressed black denim, and classic black penny loafers.
   
4. 4. Try a date night outfit. Tuck a V-neck sweater into a body con or mini skirt for a flirty outfit that still keeps you warm. Finish the look with high-heeled booties, knee-high boots, or pumps.
5. 5. Try layering. Add warmth to your sweater outfit with a couple of chic layers. Style a chunky knit cardigan over a fitted, long-sleeved dress. Layer a cashmere V-neck over a T-shirt or button-down. Wear a suede or faux fur vest over a slouchy sweater for a trendy look.
6. 6. Wear a sweater dress. Cinch the waist of a long crewneck sweater to turn it into a dress. Wear this style with white sneakers, over-the-knee boots, or booties with statement hardware.

Get a MasterClass Annual Membership and let Tan France be your very own style maestro. Queer Eye’s fashion guru spills everything he knows about building a capsule collection, finding a signature look, understanding proportions, and more (including why it’s important to wear underwear to bed)—all in a soothing British accent, no less.