How to Style a Sweater Vest

Sweater vests are still a big trend for Fall/Winter. I have to admit, this is one trend I never saw myself wearing. I think of prep school uniforms when I think of vests. Mostly argyle and not too stylish. However, I think I’ve found a few sweater vests that have swayed my opinion. The trick to styling is to keep it modern and fun. Here are my tips for how to style a sweater vest for the modern woman!

How to Style a Sweater Vest

There are a few tips I think about when styling a sweater vest. First, is choosing one that’s flattering and timeless. I’m all about having classics in your wardrobe, as it keeps the lifecycle of your clothing going longer. This is why I lean towards plain sweater vests, however finding a beautiful printed vest can be fun too! Second is deciding on layering. Sweater vests are super effortless when worn on their own, but by layering with a top underneath, you can really elevate the look. And last is deciding which bottoms to pair your sweater vest with. Let’s get into the details.

Sweater vest: Plain or Patterned

The first rule for how to style a sweater vest, is to choose plain or patterned. Choosing a sweater vest now is easy! There are so many options available at just about every price point. That’s what happens when a trend takes over.

Choosing a plain style vest gives you endless options. You can wear this with jeans, pants, a skirt, even over a dress. But we will talk more about layering soon. This can easily be dressed up or down. I love a plain sweater vest with a slip skirt!

If you decide you want a fun printed sweater vest, keep your accessories neutral or pull out a color from the vest. This will ensure that your look is pulled together, effortless, and most of all stylish.

Here are my favorite sweater vests available now:

 

 

While both styles can be worn on their own, here are my tips for layering.

Layering

My second rule for how to style a sweater vest is to add a beautiful layer underneath. Choosing a what to wear underneath, depends on your choice of vest. Adding a blouse or a tee can really make your look more personal and interesting.

I love to wear a plain vest with a patterned long sleeve shirt underneath. Although you can wear a white tee or a classic white shirt, choosing a patterned shirt is fun. When choosing a patterned top for your first layer, stick with the same color family for your vest, or choose to pull out one of your favorite colors in the pattern. It will look like it was made to be worn together.

When choosing a patterned sweater vest, stick with a simple top in a solid color. That’s always a smart option.

Here are my top layering picks:

 

 

Bottoms

The third rule to styling a sweater vest, is to choose your bottoms wisely. A short skirt can give school girls vibes which is not what I’m looking for. I’m aiming for a cool-mom aesthetic that feels both pulled together and comfortable. My days are filled with work-from-home meetings, grocery runs, school pick-ups, and after-school activities, so I need outfits that feel effortless but look intentional. Here’s how you can achieve that.

Style a Sweater Vest with Straight-leg Jeans

Jeans are my go-to choice for styling a sweater vest. They keep the outfit casual and easy, yet polished. To keep this look modern, I opt for high-waisted straight leg jeans. They are super flattering on everyone. Plus they have achieved classic style status and can be worn with so many different shoes. For an effortless casual vibe, try wearing them with loafers or these ballet pumps. You just want to make sure the jean length is not puddling on the floor.

How to Wear a  Sweater Vest with Wide-leg Jeans

Wide-leg or flare-leg jeans are another chic option for styling a sweater vest. The combo creates a balanced silhouette that’s both chic and comfortable. The key is to keep the proportions in mind. A slightly fitted or cropped sweater vest complements the volume of the jeans without overwhelming your frame. You can also tuck your vest in for a more tailored look or leave it out for a relaxed vibe. Pairing this outfit with ankle boots adds a sleek finishing touch. To dress it up, add a tailored blazer over your vest for a more structured, sophisticated feel. Whether you’re keeping it casual or aiming for something a little more polished, this combo is so versatile!

For tips on styling jeans, check out my post on how to style wide-leg jeans.

 

How to Wear a  Sweater Vest Casually

Jeans are the obvious choice when dressing casually. But you can also wear cargo or twill pants for a polished but casual look. I love this outfit option for casual lunches with friends. To keep the outfit looking elevated, style it with ballet flats or loafers. For a true laid-back feel, low-profile sneakers work just as well!

Here are some great vest and bottom pairings:

 

 

Layer It Over a Dress

Layering a sweater vest over a dress is a great way to change the vibe of an outfit. It also helps to expand your closet by giving you more outfit options. Choose a neutral vest color like navy, camel, beige, or ivory so it goes with more things in your closet.

What Shoes to Wear With a Sweater Vest

Choosing what shoes to wear with your sweater dress depends on your overall vibe, the occasion, season, and what you’re wearing on the bottom. Right now socks with loafers are trending big! You could wear combo this with a skirt or pants.

Some of the best options include stylish boots, chic ballet flats, and elegant Mary Jane shoes. Each of these offers a casual yet elevated vibe, perfect for any occasion.

For the fall and winter season be sure to check out my Best Fall Shoes post for some inspiration. If you’re on the hunt for great heels, take a look at my Inez Shoes Review (use code TARAFHM15 for 15% off). Also, don’t miss my Margaux Shoes Review for more on chic flats and boots that elevate any outfit.

I hope you find this guide helpful when deciding how to style your sweater vest. I would love to hear if you have tried this trend and what you are pairing with your vests!

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