How to style a white sweater?
Should you go for a more elegant or street-style look?
If you need a little inspiration, this article has 30 chic ideas on how you can style a white sweater and make it look amazing!
Below you will find our outfit inspiration divided by seasons – dive in!
The Timeless White Sweater
What has more timeless appeal than a crisp white sweater? Versatile, stylish, and flattering, a soft white sweater will serve you all year round.
As we leave summer behind, it’s time to start thinking about our autumn/winter closet essentials. Whether you live in chilly climes or a mild temperature, a chic white sweater is a must-have to complete your closet.
And for all you fashionistas out there, you’ll be happy to know that a white sweater perfectly fits the brief for Autumn/Winter this year. This year’s catwalks saw everyday clothes being elevated. Indeed, closet staples in high-quality fabrics were paired with classic white shirts, black coats, and shimmery metallics.
This article looks at how to style a white sweater for any season or event.
How to Style a White Sweater in Fall
Pumpkin spice lattes, cozy nights in, trips to the pumpkin patch with friends, we just love autumn. It also marks the start of sweater season.
Let’s face it, Autumn weather can be predictable. Sunny one minute and raining the next, it can be tough to dress right during this transition season. That’s exactly why layers are your best friend.
A white sweater is the perfect addition to your autumn capsule wardrobe because it works perfectly with a range of fabrics and textures.
Here’s how to style a white sweater for every occasion this Autumn.
1. Tucked into your favorite high-waisted jeans
It’s hard to beat a crisp white sweater tucked into a great pair of jeans. So, why not make it your go-to look this Autumn?
We recommend opting for high or mid-rise jeans in a light wash for the most chic look. Plus, don’t forget to accessorize with some cute ballet pumps, your fave kicks, or a chunky ankle boat.
2. Over a satin midi skirt
For those warmer Autumn days, a knitted sweater is the perfect way to dress down a dressy skirt. We love combining a colorful satin skirt with a neutral white knit for a fun look with plenty of texture.
3. Make it Monochrome
Take a leaf out of fashionistas like Sofia Richie and team your white sweater with a monochrome ensemble. When done right, monochrome is an impossibly chic way to wear white.
The key is texture. Pair your white or cream knit with cream, tailored trousers and pointed loafers. Throw on a camel coat or a classic trench coat to complete the look.
4. Layer with a Button Down Shirt
Go for a preppy look by layering your white sweater over a colorful button-down shirt. The neutral knit paired with the bright pop of color creates a fun Autumn vibe.
And the best part? You can dress this look up with some tailored trousers or make it more casual with your favourite pair of jeans.
If preppy isn’t your thing, try layering your white sweater over a plaid shirt. Then, throw on some black straight-leg jeans and chunky boots for a grungier look.
5. Go for Boho
Channel your inner Stevie Nicks by styling your white sweater with a flowing skirt, tights, a leather jacket, and a pair of cowboy boots. Of course, don’t forget to accessorize with some fringing to complete the look.
6. Under a Gilet
Autumn is that time of year when it’s sometimes too warm for a coat, but not warm enough for just a sweater. That’s where a stylish gilet comes in.
Throwing a gilet over your white sweater is a great way to stay cosy and look chic at the same time.
You can dress it up with a faux fur gilet, tailored trousers, and chunky boots. Or, you can go for a casual, puffer gilet with some leggings and trainers. What’s more, you can play with color or keep it simple with a monochromatic look. The possibilities are endless.
7. Play with Patterns
The great thing about a neutral white knit is how versatile it is. We love playing with bold prints and diverse textures for a fun Autumn look.
For instance, try tucking your sweater into a floral-printed skirt or some leopard-print pants for a show-stopping look.
8. Over a Midi Dress
Take your favorite midi or maxi dress from summer to autumn by pairing it with a white sweater. The light color of the sweater helps to balance the look and make it transitional.
We recommend pairing the dress with a belt and tucking the sweater in for a flattering look that accentuates your waist.
9. With a Mini Skirt
A neutral knit is perfect for dressing down a mini skirt for an everyday look. Simply tuck the sweater into your skirt (high-waisted is best) and pair it with tights and some knee boots.
10. Break up Double Denim
Dare to don the Canadian tuxedo this Autumn with some double denim. The trick is to choose the same wash (we love a light wash moment) and get your proportions right. Straight-leg or wide-leg denim jeans with an oversized denim jacket looks great on most frames.
Throwing on a white sweater neutralizes the look and doesn’t distract from the main event: all that denim.
How to Style a White Sweater in Winter
Chilly winter mornings call for a cozy sweater and a hot drink. Luckily, your white sweater will take you right through winter this year.
Forget the myth that you shouldn’t wear white in winter. After all, fashion rules are made to be broken, and winter whites done right are oh-so chic.
Here are 10 ideas on how to style a white sweater this winter.
1. White Sweater With Leather
A neutral white knit looks fantastic with a pair of leather trousers. Plus, it will keep you warm and dry on those cold winter nights.
We recommend tucking your knit into a straight-leg pair of leather trousers and some chunky pointed-toe boots. Throw over a coat and a bright scarf for a stylish look that can take you from the office to the pub.
2. White Sweater With Statement Coat
While black coats may be in this winter, that’s no reason to hang up your statement coat. A chunky white sweater perfectly balances a bright or patterned coat for an effortlessly chic look.
Pair with jeans, boots, and a neutral bag, and let your coat do the talking.
3. Cozy Neutrals
Embrace the winter vibes by teaming your white sweater with a camel coat, taupe scarf, suede ankle boots, and corduroy wide-legged pants. Textured neutrals…perfection.
4. Throw Back to Seventies
Give your neutral knit a retro feel by pairing it with a corduroy button-down skirt or flares, ankle boots, and a wide-brimmed hat. Add a mohair coat for proper Penny Lane vibes.
Oh, and don’t forget to finish the look with a scarf in an earthy tone and a leather bag.
5. Dress Down Sequins and Metallics
2023 catwalks were all about pared-down fashion. But that doesn’t mean you have to forgo the sparkles completely. Neutral classics like the white sweater were paired with metallics for a “too cool to care” vibe.
Adding a white knitted sweater over a sparkly sequined skirt is an ideal choice for this year’s Christmas party. Fashion-forward and comfy? Sign us up.
6. Under Denim Overalls
A great pair of denim overalls are perfect for those lazy weekends with friends. Whether you’re doing some DIY, headed to the farmer’s market, or catching a movie, overalls and a chunky knit are a match made in heaven.
Team with a pair of colorful Converse, a messy bun, and a warm coat.
7. Mix Velvet and Wool
Winter is the ideal time of year to pull out your trusty velvet pants. And if you want to create a casual day-to-night look, pair your velvet pants with a white sweater and some boots.
Slip on a coat to complete the ensemble.
8. Play Around with Patterned Tights
Statement tights are a fun (and cost-effective) way to revamp your closet and try something new. We especially love lace and patterned tights paired with a mini-skirt, your trusty white knit, and a neutral coat. Let your legs do the talking and keep the rest of the look understated.
9. White Sweater With a Pop of Color
If you’re opting for a winter white, monochrome look (and we really think you should), then try adding a color splash.
Fiery red is the color for AW 23, so try finishing your look with a red bag, shoe, or accessory. Oh, and don’t forget a bright lipstick to match.
10. White Sweater With Textures
You don’t have to opt for bright colors and crazy patterns to make a statement this winter. In fact, combining interesting textures is one of the best ways to make a fashion impact.
For instance, try pairing a fuzzy white sweater with structured bottoms (high-waisted tailored pants, a leather skirt, a tweed skirt, or wide-leg jeans). Then, complete the look with a leather belt, or suede or crocodile skin boots.
Textured accessories are a must. Think velvet scarves, statement earrings, and snakeskin.
How to Style a White Sweater in Spring
Spring is all about new beginnings. The days are getting brighter, and the layers of clothing are getting lighter. It’s a great time to experiment with new ways to style your white sweater.
Here are ten ideas on how to style a white sweater for Spring 2024.
1. With a floaty patterned skirt
When we think of Spring, floaty patterned skirts come to mind. And runways for Spring 2024 look set to be filled with petal prints.
Whether you prefer a flirty mini or a flowing maxi skirt, a white sweater will tie your look together.
2. White Sweater with Pastels
Baby blue is one of the top fashion trends for Spring 2024. And the good news is that your white sweater is the perfect partner.
Tuck a white cable-knit sweater into pastel-colored, fitted trousers or a structured skirt for a fresh and fun Spring look. Alternatively, break up a matching pastel set with a neutral white knit. Polish the look with nude accessories.
3. White Sweater with Shorts
Spring is here, which means it’s time to show off your legs again. Create a chic Spring look by teaming a white cable knit sweater with a pair of high-waisted tailored shorts and ballet pumps.
Alternatively, team your sweater with a pair of silk shorts in an earthy tone (earthy brown is a big trend in 2024). The mix of textures and neutral colors creates an effortless, polished look.
4. Layer over a Tea Dress
A well-fitting tea dress is another essential item in anyone’s closet. But, with Spring’s unpredictable weather, you don’t want to get caught short.
A white sweater is a great way to make sure your tea dress is warm enough for crisp Spring evenings. Add a pair of chunky combat boots and a leather jacket for a timeless look.
5. Tie Around Your Shoulders
Channel your inner preppy girl by loosely tying a white sweater around your shoulders. This works great with a pair of tailored navy pants, a striped boat neck top, and some pumps.
6. White Sweater with Pleaded Skirt
A pleated maxi skirt is flattering and never goes out of style. Whether you opt for a mini, midi, or maxi skirt, a crisp white sweater is the perfect companion.
Play with color for a vibrant Spring look, or stick to monochromatic colors for a chic finish.
7. Over a Satin Slip Dress
Another closet staple, the satin slip dress is a must-have garment. It can be dressed up with a clutch bag, heals, and statement jewelry for an evening on the town or dressed down.
Throwing a chunky oversized white knit over your slip dress makes it comfy and casual enough for day time wear. We recommend pairing with chunky ankle boots to complete the look.
8. Oversize it
Oversized outfits are a big trend for 2024. So, style an oversized white sweater with your baggiest pair of jeans for a fashion-forward look.
9. Under a Bomber Jacket
Bomber jackets are big news in the fashion industry. They also happen to be one of the most versatile and wearable trends to try out.
Layer your bomber over a chic white sweater for a cool street-style look.
10. With Skirt over Pants
Remember the early 2000s when wearing a skirt over your favorite jeans was the pinnacle of fashion? Well, we’re back.
This time, skirts are paired over matching pants for a more cohesive look. What’s more, designers are playing around with patterned denim, interesting cuts, and textures for a modern take. Complete your look with a white sweater in a fuzzy mohair finish.
Choosing the Right White Sweater
The key to finding the right sweater is choosing the right shade for your skin tone. While warm skin tones look stunning in cream undertones, cooler tones should opt for a brighter ivory shade or a slightly blueish hue.
Going for a soft white is the safest option, as it compliments most skin tones.
Fabric is another important consideration. If you can, choose a high-quality wool that will last. That said, you can find plenty of affordable options on the high street, which will work well.
Another factor is the occasion. Think about your closet and personal style; how do you plan to wear the sweater? Understanding this will help you choose the right fabric.
Here are a few examples to inspire you:
- Everyday casual – Go for a cotton or lightweight knit that you can layer. Oversized styles work great.
- Elegant workwear – Choose cashmere or merino wool for a more luxurious, dressier look. Opt for a more structured fit for a clean silhouette.
- Statement style – Try a chunky weave or cable knit sweater to play around with texture and create a standout piece. For even more of a statement, look for sweaters with detailing like beading, lace, or accents.
The next factor to consider is your body shape. Choosing the right silhouette is essential, especially for a staple item such as this. Here’s the best fit for different body types.
- Petite: Avoid oversized styles, and go for fitted, cropped sweaters that will elongate your legs and flatter your small frame.
- Pear-shaped: Boat neck or cowl neck sweaters look best on pear shapes as they balance your proportions. Ideally, opt for an A-line fit that doesn’t cling around the hips.
- Apple-shaped: Empire waist, tunic styles, asymmetrical, and wrap sweaters flatter apple shapes. Choosing a sweater with embellishments on the upper body emphasises your best parts and distracts from the mid-section.
- Hourglass: V-neck or scoop-neck sweaters complement an hourglass figure’s curves. Always try to cinch in the waist by popping a belt over your sweater or choosing a fitted style.
Ultimately, choosing the right white sweater depends on your personal style, coloring, body type, and how you plan to wear it. As such, take your time to find the perfect match.
After all, it will be a staple in your closet for years to come.
Accessories to Elevate Your Look
Accessories can make or break your look, especially with a neutral piece like a white sweater. Too simple and your ‘fit can come off as boring, too much and you’ll distract from the focal point of your look.
In this section, we look at how to use accessories to elevate your look and compliment your white sweater.
1. Play with Colors
We already waxed lyrical about the wonders of adding pops of color to your outfit with your shoes, bag, or accessories.
Not only does it give you a chance to do something unexpected and jazz up your neutral staple items, but it also allows you to jump on trends. Updating your outfit with the latest trending colors and prints is expensive (not to mention wasteful). As every fashion diva knows, investing in quality staple items is the key to being stylish.
That doesn’t mean we don’t like to give a nod to the season’s IT colors, though. That’s where color pop accessories come in. You can reference the newest catwalk trends without splurging on a whole new wardrobe.
2. Mixing Complementary or Contrasting Shades
Another way to play with color is to experiment with colors. Get your hands on a color wheel or color theory guide to discover fresh new combinations to play with.
You can decide if you want to experiment with complementary or contrasting shades, depending on your look.
3. Combine Texture and Patterns
Incorporating a range of textures adds depth, dimension, and visual appeal to your outfits. Plus, it creates the illusion of luxury for an expensive feel.
Don’t know where to start? Play around with textured accessories in your outfits, ensuring that you incorporate three different textures in your look.
For the more adventurous, style your basics (like a white sweater) with patterned bottoms to create an interesting visual contrast that’s not overwhelming.
Alternatively, you could keep it monochromatic and add dimension with textures.
Pro tip: beads and pearls are set to be big in 2024, so why not incorporate them into your look as a nod to this trend?
Dressing Up or Down: Versatility Explored
A white sweater is one of the most versatile pieces in your closet. Here are a few ways to transform your outfit from a daytime to an evening look.
- Swap casual footwear for a pair of heels or elegant boots. This will immediately elevate your look for a dressier event.
- Wear statement jewely to take your brunch-with-the-girls look to a date night outfit. Simply swap out your fine daytime jewelery for a pair of statement earrings and a necklace. Or, try stacking rings for a dramatic look.
- Add an embellished belt to nip in your waist, create a more defined silhouette and make your outfit suitable for a formal gathering
- Throw on a stylish blazer to give your white sweater a dressier feel.
- Swap your daytime handbag for a dressier clutch bag to complete your look.
Care and Maintenance
Your white sweater will be a staple item for years to come. Provided you take proper care of it, that is.
To keep your sweater from staining or discoloration, follow these tips:
- Avoid jewelry snags by removing accessories (earrings, rings, and necklaces) before taking off your knitwear.
- Wear light-colored clothes underneath your sweater to prevent dye from transferring and staining it.
- Avoid makeup marks by spraying the collar of your white sweater with hairspray before putting it on and taking it off.
- Wash your sweater in a cool wash and follow the proper drying instructions to stop it from losing its shape. Usually, laying the sweater flat to air dry works best.
If you do get stains on your white sweater, gently blot the area with a clean cloth (running can make things worse). Then, wash the sweater using a mild detergent specifically designed for wool or delicate fabrics.
Finally, try not to dry your white sweater in direct sunlight. This can cause yellowing and alter the overall look of the garment.
Conclusion
A white sweater is one of the most versatile and timeless items in your closet. Ideal for dressing up or down, it adds a touch of elegance to any outfit.
When it comes to styling a white sweater, we invite you to get creative.
Try out surprising combinations of textures, colors, and silhouettes to find a signature style that works for you. Of course, remember to choose a sweater that flatters your body shape, skin tone, and existing wardrobe.
More Fashion Ideas
17 Best Kate Spade Bags for Work [2023]
Is Lacoste a Luxury Brand? Review & Good Alternatives [2023]
30 Best Brands Similar to Kate Spade for Affordable Chic Handbags
