It’s no secret that we love sweaters- turtlenecks, v-necks, cashmere, wool, you name it, we love them all. Can you blame us? There is no better feeling than snuggling up in a cozy sweater, a hot cup of coffee in hand, watching the rain come down from the window of your favorite coffee shop. 

As cozy and warm and comfortable as they may be, they are not the most flattering. That’s because that isn’t really their function. However, there are some tips and tricks to help make your basic sweater look more stylish.  

Pay Attention to Neckline

A v-neckline will elongate the torso whereas a scoop neckline will do the opposite. Another way to play with the neckline is to add jewelry. For example, a long necklace will draw the eye down whereas a short necklace will bring the eye up. 

Flattering Bottoms

A good rule of thumb is to pair an oversize sweater with some form fitting bottoms. A stylish go-to is a pair of leather leggings underneath your sweater to elevate a comfy/casual look.  

Pro Tip: Combine loose fit clothing with form fitting items to help enhance shape. 

Cropped Sweaters

It is all about finding the right length when shopping for a sweater. A cropped knit is an effortless way to look stylish and it pairs perfectly with either a high-waisted skirt or pair of pants. 

Pro Tip: Stay away from sweaters that hit below the hip- they tend to widen the frame. 

Elongate the Bottom

Another way to help with shape is to make your bottom half appear longer. There are a few tricks to do this: pairing a sweater with a short skirt is one way and another is to add a pair of heels to the ensemble. 

I know these options aren’t exactly Portland friendly so here are some tweaks: 

• Replace heels with a pair of wedges or platforms. Take these Eileen Fisher platforms for example. 
• Throw on some thick tights or leggings underneath the skirt. I’ve done this with a pair of high waisted shorts and was perfectly warm.  

Play with Materials and Symmetry

You want to mix textures in your outfits to create contrast. Mixing materials is a great way to enhance the look of a sweater outfit. I personally like mixing velvet and sequins.  

Besides mixing textures, you may also want to play with lengths. An easy way to incorporate this trick into your wardrobe is to wear your summer dresses underneath your sweaters. It’s a quick, chic look that also extends the lifecycle of your clothing. 

When in Doubt, Belt it

This will add shape to any sweater. Just make sure to belt at your smallest point! 

Contrasting Colors

Oh the power of color! Place color where you want the focus to go. Want to wear all black? Fine, but now imagine the whole look with a bright pop of red lipstick. It changes the whole look from expected to chic. Don’t be afraid to add color into your wardrobe. It helps elevate a whole outfit and may even improve your mood on those cold, gray Portland days.  

It’s All in the Tuck

This is probably the easiest way to alter the look of your sweater. There are a few ways to do this: 

• The French Tuck

Tucking in the front section of your sweater and leaving it loose in the back. You could also move the tuck to the side to create contrast.  

• The Belt Tuck

Put on a thin belt over your sweater, then adjust the sweater so the edge is just under the belt and let the excess fall over. 

• The Bra Tuck

Flip the hemline of your sweater inward and secure it underneath your bra. 

And with that my friends, I hope this post was helpful in all your sweater adventures. If you have any other tips you would like to add please put them in the comment section below! 

Till next week, 

Dre