How To Style A Sweater Vest In 2021 - PureWow

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Plus, one style you should definitely avoid

By Abby Hepworth•Published Sep 17, 2024Additional reporting byChelsea Candelario

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I’m not going to lie—I really didn’t see the rise of the sweater vest coming. This wonderfully nerdy staple, beloved by such comedic (but not fashion) icons as Doug Funnie and Chandler Bing has been steadily growing in popularity since the beginning of the year, or even earlier, and is only becoming more ubiquitous now that fall has officially arrived. If you’ve found yourself wondering how to style a sweater vest and not look like an old college history professor (no offense to them), you’re not the only one. I’ve rounded up 12 incredibly stylish, fashion-forward ways to rock this classic preppy knit. I’ve also tapped Sophie Lopez, a professional stylist who shared the latest trends—and one look to avoid—that are sure to impress even your most sartorially advanced friends. Here’s exactly how to style a sweater vest with aplomb in 2024.

Meet the Expert

Sophie Lopez is a fashion stylist based in both New York and Los Angeles with more than 20 years of experience in the industry. Her work has been featured in brand campaigns for Aldo, New York & Company, Fabletics and Bulgari, as well as major publications like Vogue Mexico, Glamour UK and Rolling Stone. Her clients include Jessica Alba, Zoe Saldana and Sofía Vergara.

Why Are Sweater Vests So Popular Right Now?

As Lopez explains, “Sweater vests are an elegant staple that started trending in 1930s menswear and were further popularized in the ‘70s and again in the ‘90s via high fashion runways and popular TV shows. Recently, I'm seeing a lot of trends lean into vintage-inspired styles, like sweater vests, high-waist jeans and Mary Janes, with the rise of preppy and ‘50s-inspired feminine trends that add a touch of sophistication to any look.”

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1. Layer Your Sweater Vest with a Turtleneck or Collared Shirt

According to Lopez, a chic way of elevating your sweater vest is layering it with a turtleneck or collared shirt. She shares, “It can add dimension to your outfit. It’s a simple way to elevate your style for the season.” Similar to the look above, opt for a bold color to truly make the vest stand out.

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2. Tuck a Sweater Vest into Flared Jeans

This style works best with slimmer-fit sweater vests. If you want to avoid looking like an all-out ‘70s replica, add a few more modern pieces like pointy-toe heels or flats, a chain necklace (or two) and even a ‘90s-era baguette bag. It’s a small change, but it can make a huge difference.

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3. Elevate a Staple Knit with Different Textures

If you’re searching for a fashion-forward look, Lopez suggests playing around with different textures when styling your sweater vest. “It’s a great way to spice up your fall wardrobe. Don’t be afraid to pair a simple vest with different fabrics like denim, silk, lace or leather,” she says. “For an edgier style, add a lace undershirt or leather bottoms. Or, pair your sweater vest with a cute denim skirt for a more casual look.”

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4. Style a Cropped Vest Over a Voluminous Dress

Putting a sweater vest over your favorite summer dress helps to make it feel more autumnal and also creates the illusion of a waist without actually cinching you in (thereby ruining the ultra-comfy experience of wearing a tent dress in the first place). Add some tall boots—and a duster jacket if it’s really starting to get chilly—and you’ve got yourself a fun and trendy new go-to fall outfit.

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5. Layer a Sweater Vest Over a Statement Blouse

It might not seem like a logical move to layer anything over a statement piece—the whole reason you bought it was to show it off, after all—but a simple sweater vest still allows you to showcase an oversize collar or voluminous ruffled sleeves. All it really does is add some extra interest to your look by mixing in a new color or texture.

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6. Mix and Match Contrasting Prints

The most popular sweater vests right now feature bright colors and bold patterns. And while you can certainly choose just one stand-out piece and pair it with jeans and a white T-shirt, I love the look of piling on lots of patterns at once. Try mixing large with small, and make sure both prints have at least one color in common to avoid too much clashing.

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7. Accessorize, Accessorize, Accessorize

While brooches and pins may give off major Eclectic Grandpa vibes (which still seems pretty cool and vintage), consider accessorizing with statement-worthy jewelry pieces instead. As Lopez explains, “Accessorizing your look can not only help your style feel more put together but can also make the focal point of your look—like a sweater vest—pop. I love the idea of a bold, bohemian look for the fall, so rock a chunky knit vest with oversize jewelry (i.e., hoop earrings and bangles). You can also add a chain necklace or a stylish belt into the mix, too.

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8. Try a Monochrome Ensemble

If kitschy prints aren’t really your vibe, try sporting a single color from head to toe. I particularly enjoy this winter white getup, which looks much more grown up and sophisticated than pairing an argyle knit with a pleated plaid skirt (not that I don’t love that look, too). You can even opt for bolder colors if you like, like bright red or forest green, so long as you stick to just one hue.

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9. Or Consider an All Black and White Outfit

A funky print doesn’t feel quite so attention-grabbing if it only features black and white. This is doubly true if you stick to black or white separates for the rest of your outfit as well. If you really want to add in a color, try something small, like yellow sunglasses or a dainty, multi-hued necklace rather than a large, bright splash.

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10. Go for a Stylish Matching Set

When it comes to petites, Lopez recommends trying out a matching set. She says, “Pairing a sweater vest with a matching dress pants or skirt can elongate your shape. Look for matching sets with high-waist skirts or even a cropped sweater vest to create a chic, elegant silhouette.” Once you’ve got your set, add heeled boots, a shoulder bag and minimal jewelry.

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11. Wear a Long Sweater Vest as a Dress

My favorite way to rock this look is by layering a classic white shirt dress underneath, but you can also try adding a shacket or coordinating long cardigan over top as well. Finish with some chic boots that hit somewhere between mid-calf and just over the knee to strike a flattering balance between your mini sweater dress and your footwear.

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12. Use a Standout Print to Spice Up a Basic Ensemble

I’ve been seeing a lot of fun and whimsical prints popping up, so it’s an easy way to liven up a classic black-and-white or monochrome outfit. Since you don’t have to worry about coordinating any clashing prints or colors, focus on mixing and matching different silhouettes—like a fitted vest on top of a crisp white tee and flowy slacks.

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13. Avoid Wearing a Heavy Knit with Summer Staples

Just because your sweater vest is sleeveless doesn’t mean it will automatically pair well with warm-weather pieces. An oversize sweater worn over a slinky skirt or leggings just looks out of place and mismatched. Instead, Lopez suggests wearing the chunky piece with baggier jeans or wide-leg trousers. She adds, “This style gives a more timeless, corporate chic feel.”

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Frequently Asked Questions

Are There Any Other Fashion Tips for How to Wear a Sweater Vest?

“For plus size women, consider a fit-and-flare silhouette that will accentuate your frame,” Lopez says. “A great example is a turtleneck style, which can help elongate the torso while the cut side-seam will hit just at the hips. Pair it with an A-line skirt or tailored pants and you have the perfect fall work outfit.” But if you have a large bust, the stylist suggests searching for a deep V-neck sweater vest as it will elongate your torso and look flattering (all while keeping the girls secured and comfortable).

Abby Hepworth

Editor

• Covers fashion, trends and all things running
• Received certification as an RRCA run coach
• Has worked in fashion for over a decade

read full bioChelsea Candelario

Former Beauty Editor

• Wrote trend stories, product reviews and how-tos across beauty, cultures, fashion and entertainment
• Six years of experience as a Beauty Editor
• Studied journalism with a minor in creative writing at SUNY New Paltz

read full bioCompany

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