How To Wear A Sweater Dress

Sweater dresses aren’t a new closet staple. I remember filling my closet with them about 10 years ago when all of my Gossip Girl style icons were wearing them. But how exactly do you wear a sweater dress without looking like you’re stuck in 2005? Or, even worse… like you threw on your mom’s old holiday sweater for an ugly Christmas sweater party? There are plenty of sweater dressed that I’ve thrown on that make me feel totally frumpy. The style, color, fabric, length & accessories all come into play when you’re trying to show of your shape and make a sweater look current & stylish.

How To Wear A Sweater Dress

I’m all about one and done outfits. I think that’s why I enjoy shopping for summer so much. It’s so easy to throw on a sun dress and look put together. Winter can be a little trickier. Generally there are layers and thicker fabrics coming into play. That’s why the sweater dress is perfect! It’s the easiest answer to your winter wardrobe slump!

I love that you easily dress up or down a sweater dress. There are tons of silhouettes and styling options. You can take any simple sweater dress and elevate it with heels, or opt for a more casual route with sneakers. You can even update an old sweater dress paired with current trends like fishnet tights, ankle boots or a bold animal print accessory.

Style It With This Not That

One of the most common misconceptions about sweater dresses is that they can’t fit or flatter every body type. Which is just untrue. They’re literally perfect for anyone. If you feel insecure about your body, there are also some tricks to accentuating your assets. It’s all about having the right mix of outfit ideas for your body type.

The main trick to focus on is balancing your figure. I recommend picking a sweater dress with a turtleneck, cowl neck or v-neck because they’ll elongate your future. Opt for sweater dresses that make you focus on the neckline or upper body to make your figure look longer.

If you’re on the petite side, it’s best to find a form fitting sweater dress. If you wear something too oversized, you’ll look like you’re swimming in bulky fabric. Also, if you can find a vertical stripe or vertically oriented pattern, it will make you look taller.

If you’ve got curves, I recommend finding a sweater dress that is a solid color and more light weight knit. Chunkier knits and busy (or horizontal patterns) should be avoided.

You can find sweater dresses that are mini, midi & knee length. Keep in mind that different lengths are more flattering for different heights & figures. And depending on the occasion, it’s good to keep the length in mind. For instance, an above the knee sweater dress is a fun option when you’re headed out for dinner or drinks, but something at the knee or below is better for work.

Looking to accentuate your shape?

Throw on a belt to create an hourglass. I love a simple black leather belt or even a fun leopard print belt. I love wearing control top tights for a little extra support and to hide lines (aka get rid of underwear lines).

One of my favorite ways to wear a mini sweater dress is with thigh high boots. It’s the perfect combination for just about every body type and size.

When in doubt, black is always a safe option. Adding a pair of black tights and stilettos or pumps instantly elevates the look and elongates the form.

The Best Shoes To Wear With A Sweater Dress

Alright, here’s where things start getting more specific & sometimes consuming. I think that the shoes you pair a sweater dress are a key element & can make or break the look. They’re key for accentuating your figure & making the ensemble feel current.

If you’re looking to elongate and slenderize, opt for thigh high / over the knee boots or stilettos. Depending on the weather & occasion, you can throw on a pair of tights.

Ballet flats are also a fairly universal shoe option.

I also love wearing sneakers with sweater dresses for a more casual option. If you’re on the shorter side, go for a low top. If you’re taller, high tops are also a fun option!

I love throwing on a pair of ankle boots because they’re kind of in between casual & dressy. If I’m wearing a printed sweater dress, I’ll opt for a plain black ankle boot. If I’m wearing simple, I’ll add an animal print bootie to spice things up.

Sweater Dresses I Love

 Perfect Sweater Dress Accessories