How to Style: 12 Sweater-Vest Outfits
12 Ways to Wear the '90s-Inspired Sweater-Vest Trend
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Sweatervests have re-emerged as a standby for fashionistas everywhere. The origins of the sweater vest date back to the 1880s, but they've experienced popularity surges over the decades. The1990swas an era when they were especially ubiquitous, spotted on the likes ofAlicia Silverstonein "Clueless" and Princess Diana in her day-to-day life. For the 2020s, rather than a simple design in a neutral colorway (such as black with buttons down the front), an array of cute, cropped versions have become the favorite. Additionally, oversize iterations pair well with baggy jeans,Doc Martens, rimless sunglasses, and bucket hats, altogether making for an aestheticBillie Eilish would approve of.
In their most functional sense, these knits are ideal for layering in the winter or snuggling up in at home. Another styling option? Throw a sweater vest over comfortable athleisure wear, like baggy sweats and crisp white sneakers. If you favor preppy influences, opt for a classic design, coordinated with a classic white button-down. If you're intokidcore, search for bright, cheery colors; kitschy prints and patterns; and visually intriguing finishes, like fuzzy cotton or an open weave. Once you have your base down — with the sweater vest du jour acting as a foundation — build up your outfit from there. Ahead, find 12 sweater vest outfit ideas for this season. Then, shop our favorite sweater vest styles from the likes of Urban Outfitters, Ganni, Reformation, Acne Studios, Rag & Bone, Lisa Says Gah, The Frankie Shop, and more.
—Additional reporting by Nikita Charuza
How to Style a Sweater Vest: With Denim and Platforms
Style a printed sweater vest with asymmetrical denim and cap off your look with a shoulder bag and Dr. Martens.
How to Style a Sweater Vest: Colorblock
Wear a colorblock sweater vest under a loose, live-in cardigan. Complete the retro-inspired outfit with tall boots, whether you're pulling them over tights, denim, or bare legs.
How to Style a Sweater Vest: Mixed Prints
Mix and match two opposing patterns with a similar color scheme by styling a thin sweater vest over a fitted turtleneck. Finish the outfit with corduroys for a warm, cozy look.
How to Style a Sweater Vest: Over a Button-Down
For a preppy look, layer your sleeveless knit over a white button-down shirt, fashioned so the collar peeks out. On a cooler day, add a colorful cardigan on top for a pop of brightness.
How to Style a Sweater Vest: With a Pussy-Bow
Use a cropped sweater vest to play up the frilly collar on your pussy-bow blouse. Contrast the Victorian-inspired look with shorts and tough, rugged boots.
How to Style a Sweater Vest: '90s Style
Wear an oversize striped sweater vest with baggy jeans, rimless sunglasses, and a shoulder bag to achieve the ultimate '90s aesthetic.
How to Style a Sweater Vest: Contrasting Colors
Wear your cropped sweater vest over a long-sleeved shirt in a contrasting color or print that breaks up an otherwise monochrome outfit from head-to-toe. These vibrant elements make for an interesting, eye-catching 'fit.
How to Style a Sweater Vest: With a Casual Tee
Style a cable knit sweater vest over a white T-shirt with a chainlink choker. For additional accessories, consider a pair of black sunglasses and a coordinating black purse.
How to Style a Sweater Vest: With Neutrals
A sweater vest creates dimension to an entirely neutral outfit by bringing in an alternative fabric, and providing a slightly different shade. A simple gold bracelet tops off the classic ensemble.
How to Style a Sweater Vest: With Statement Leather
Throwing on a sweater vest over colorful statement leather or a croc-effect piece is completely unexpected, and also softens your look a bit for daytime vibes. Black leather boots offer a punk-inspired feel.
How to Style a Sweater Vest: Classic Patterns
结合两个典型的模式,如条纹和argyle, and make sure your sweater vest has the most intriguing texture, like a fuzzy finish. This combination works well with your go-to denim.
How to Style a Sweater Vest: With Bare Arms
Go bare underneath and forgo a long-sleeved shirt to play up your sweater vest. To achieve peak '90s vibes, finish the ensemble with a bucket hat and corduroy pants.
Sweater Vest Outfit: Cecilie Bahnsen White Sweater Vest
Cecilie Bahnsen Hannah Cable-Knit White Sweater Vest($169, originally $420)
