There have been numerous trends this fall that have made big statements: barrel leg jeans, metallic ballet flats, chunky loafers, and barn jackets to name a few. However, one piece that wasn’t on my “trending item” Bingo card? A sweater vest.
I’ll be the first to admit that I have been quite timid when it comes to this look. I initially was not a fan of the vest vibe, but after seeing the variety of ways they’ve been styled, I’ve officially changed my tune on the top.
Sweater vests make a great addition to your closet during the transitional seasons. They’re versatile because they pair well with several bottoms and shoes, and they have the added benefit of being easy to layer underneath jackets and coats. Another bonus: Because they are such an “it girl” piece right now, there are tons of options out there to accommodate different styles and price points.
If you’re tempted to dip your toes into the trend but you’re not sure where to start, well, 1) I feel your pain, but 2) You’re in luck! I went to Pinterest to source some sweater vest outfit ideas and decided to put together this guide to wearing the top throughout this season.
How to Style a Sweater Vest
What to Wear with a Sweater Vest
Sweater Vest with a Button Down Shirt and Trousers (Workwear)
One simple way to incorporate a sweater vest into your outfits is by layering it over other closet staples. For example, you could add a vest on top of a button down shirt for a work-appropriate look. Add trousers and heels or flats on the bottom and you’ll be ready to go from the office to happy hour!
Sweater Vest with Jeans (Parisian-Inspired)
Keep things basic (yet chic) by styling a sweater vest with a pair of straight leg jeans. This is a fool-proof combo for everyday wear regardless of the season. You could add a long cardigan or coat during the winter and wear the duo on its own during the warmer months. Ballet flats would be my preferred shoe choice here.
Sweater Vest with a Satin Midi Skirt and Heels (Date Night Outfit)
One of my favorite occasions to dress for is a date night, and a sweater vest can add a surprisingly feminine and flirty feel to a night out look. Style one with a midi slip skirt and a pair of pumps for an easy to put together yet elevated outfit. Adding accessories, like dangly gold earrings and a cute handbag, can really level things up.
Sweater Vest with a Denim Skirt and Boots (Western-Inspired)
Feeling more bold? Try a combo of a denim skirt, western boots, and a sweater vest. This outfit is totally on-theme for the fall and summer months. Plus, I love that it offers a more laid-back feel.
Sweater Vest Outfits
Sweater Vest with a Button Down Shirt
Like I mentioned above, a sweater vest can make for a great office staple. It’s work-appropriate yet offers a much different look than your typical corporate wear. You could style one on its own or layer it on top of a button down shirt. This $50 Abercrombie find would work both ways!
For bottoms, these trousers are one of the brand’s bestsellers and they come in multiple colors and patterns. Suede details, like this purse and these heels, can make for an unexpected yet chic touch.
Sweater Vest with Jeans
Consider this the ideal “starter” sweater vest outfit. You could easily recreate this look with pieces you likely have in your closet already (with the addition of maybe having to purchase a vest.) I’d wear this for outings like brunch with friends, coffee runs, work meetings, or even a night out.
I adore the gold button detailing on this top and think it provides a more girly look than many other sweater vests on the market.
Long Sweater Vest with Satin Midi Skirt
Flirty, feminine, and fun — at first glance this outfit might seem basic, but in reality, it showcases such a pretty blend of textures. The soft knit fabric of the top is a cozy complement to the more cool and crisp look of the silk skirt. Bonus: Both of these base layers could be mixed and matched with other pieces in your wardrobe as well!
Tip: To provide a pop of color to this neutral look, consider wearing a pretty lip liner (this one is a fave) or even some moody makeup.
Sweater Vest with a Denim Skirt
Similarly to sweater vests, denim skirts are having their turn in the fashion spotlight right now. Make a nod to both trends by styling the two pieces together. Adding western boots gives this look a very specific vibe, but you could swap them for sandals or plain ankle booties if that’s more your thing!
p.s. If you’re looking for a sweater vest that’s budget-friendly, this Amazon pick is under $35.
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