Preppy Sweater Vests Are Fashion Girls' Go-To Winter Styling Piece
The layering piece is having a moment, but its timeless appeal makes it a wardrobe staple.
As a fashion editor who has a deep appreciation for versatility, I’ve deliberately stocked my winter capsule wardrobe with sweater vests. From oversized designs covered in subdued shades to cropped versions stitched with Fair Isle prints, the enduring style can work well with a ton of other cold-weather separates. Just look towards some of the best-dressed celebrities who have recently put this theory to the test.
Not too long ago, Katie Holmes teamed a black sweater vest with a sharp button-down shirt and proceeded to give her look an elevated twist with a lustrous leather maxi skirt and a pair of pointy kitten heels. Camila Cabello, on the other hand, took a preppy approach while wearing a sweater vest plastered in an eye-catching Argyle pattern. Similar to Holmes, she coupled her pullover with a buttoned shirt, but leaned into a more casual look below the waist by way of corduroy pants and lug sole loafers.
A-listers aside, the street style scene is also peppered with plenty of sweater vests. I’ve spotted It girls showcasing sleeveless knits with winter basics like luxe wool-blend coats, wide-leg jeans, and knee-high boots.
If you’re interested in taking a sweater vest for a spin, I’ve curated a list of 30 coveted pieces to help you do that. Ahead, shop a variety of silhouettes, shades, and textures from brands like J.Crew, Guest in Residence, Madewell, and more. Plus, I’ve shared a few of my professional styling tips you can add to your moodboard.
Oversized Sweater Vests
Prepare to wear this streamlined look on repeat.
A roomy sweater vest will fit right into your collection of layering outfits. There are plenty of ways to rock this oversized top, but my go-to formula involves a button-down, a pair of tailored trousers, and sleek ankle boots. For extra warmth, I’ll often slip into a double-breasted coat that sweeps the floor. It’s a polished outfit that will lend itself to numerous occasions, from days in the office to nights on the town.
Cropped Sweater Vests
As contradictory as it sounds, cropped sweater vests can actually feel quite corporate.
For a trendy look, opt for a sweater vest that has a shorter hemline. Although crop tops tend to have a relaxed reputation, there are ways to make them feel more sophisticated. Take notes from the fashion week show goer pictured above who embraced the viral office-siren aesthetic with a structured shirt and a pencil skirt.
V-Neck Sweater Vests
Double up on knit layers with a V-neck sweater vest and a buttoned cardigan.
No collection of sweater vests is complete without a timeless V-neck style. Stick with neutral designs that you can have on rotation or make a statement with saturated shades and playful prints.
Crew Neck Sweater Vests
This schoolgirl-coded outfit gives a not-so-subtle nod to preppy style.
Although V-neck sweater vests are cherished among the fashion set, crew neck alternatives deserve just as much love too. The curved neckline of this style looks especially great beside crisp collars, so go ahead and wear it over your favorite button-down. If you’re willing to take on the preppy outfits trend, slip into a midi skirt and champion the loafers with socks look.
Turtleneck Sweater Vests
Bundle up in a snug turtleneck sweater vest for an undeniably comfy feel.
Combat frigid temperature dips with a turtleneck sweater vest that offers more coverage. Wear this style over a long-sleeved T-shirt to stay toasty, and when the weather begins to warm up, ditch your tee completely.
