It goes without saying that sweaters are a great winter staple. And, while styles of sweaters for women tend to change only subtly from year to year, there are plenty of ways you can style your sweater to make countless different sweater outfits. In this article you’ll find the best winter sweaters for women as well as types of sweaters and how to wear them.
Types of sweaters for women
Before we talk about how to wear your sweater, how about what type of sweater to choose?
There are so many different sweater styles you can choose from, but below are the main ones to think about adding to your closet this winter.
As with all of your clothing, think about what is flattering for your body type.
V-neck sweaters for women
A V-neck sweater is the most universally flattering sweater style there is.
That’s because the V-neck naturally elongates the figure by drawing the eye up and down rather than across.
You could opt for a classic neutral shade, or something brighter to liven up your outfit.
The J.Crew sweater (below) will definitely brighten up any of your cold weather sweater outfits. Plus, it is cashmere, so it will feel lovely against your skin.
Or, for an everyday option, you could try this Amazon Essentials sweater. It comes in a huge range of colors, so you could choose a different one for each day of the week. Reviewers say it is a nice lightweight sweater to transition into colder weather.
J.Crew Cashmere Shrunken V-Neck Sweater
Round-neck sweaters for women
Another classic style when looking for winter sweaters for women, the round neck, or crew neck, tends to draw attention to your face, and can be a particularly flattering option to choose for your sweater outfits if you have a long neck.
Karen @styledbykaren above tucks her round neck sweater into her jeans.
Recreate her outfit with this similar sweater, jeans, boots and sunglasses.
Turtleneck sweaters
A great layering piece for winter, you can wear your turtleneck on its own, or layer a block color turtleneck under a dress.
The turtleneck (below) is made from cashmere, so is a great investment piece. As this is an oversized look, it will go best with slimline jeans, leggings or pants.
COS Pure Cashmere Turtleneck Sweater
funnel neck
In a similar style to the turtleneck, the funnel neck sweater (below) is a classic gray shade that will go with everything in your closet. It is a wool and cashmere blend, so it should have longevity.
Ramy Brook Brianna Funnel Neck Sweater
cable knit
Cable knit sweaters are on trend, and can add some lovely texture to your outfits. However, they can add bulk, so you will want to think about keeping the rest of your outfit streamlined.
The cable knit (below) comes in a soft caramel shade. Plus, because it is a shrunken fit, it will look good worn with wide-leg pants or jeans.
J.Crew Cashmere Shrunken Cable-Knit Sweater with Lurex Threads
Kimba @kimbalikes above chooses a sweater that features two trends in one – cable knit and balloon sleeves.
Check out this similar sweater (another option here), jeans, boots, handbag, scarf and belt.
Boatneck sweaters for women
A boatneck sweater can be a particularly flattering option for pear shapes as it helps to balance wider hips.
The boatneck sweater (below) comes in lots of shades so you should find your favorite, and reviewers say it is soft, flattering, versatile, and machine washable.
MAKARTHY Batwing Knitted Sweater
Winter sweaters for women: The cardigan
Cardigans can have an unfair reputation for being frumpy, but they really can be one of the most flattering knitwear options you can choose.
You can opt for a tie-waist to show off your figure, or choose a long option to look taller and slimmer.
The J.Crew sweater (below) has a pleasing preppy feel.
Also take a look at how to wear a cardigan without looking frumpy.
J.Crew Tipped V-Neck Cotton Cardigan Sweater
Off the shoulder sweater
An off-the-shoulder sweater can be the perfect way to add some subtle glamour to your jeans, or you could style one with a skirt for a night out.
Reiss Lorna Off The Shoulder Sweater
cashmere sweater
Any style of sweater will feel beautiful to wear in cashmere. Choosing a luxurious fabric will add a classy feel to even the simplest of outfits.
Also check out where to shop for the best cashmere sweaters.
J.Crew Cashmere Classic Fit Crewneck Sweater
Trendy winter sweaters for women
If you already have all of the sweater styles above in your closet, there’s always an on-trend style of sweater you can choose to update your sweater outfits.
This does, of course, incorporate lots of different styles, but every season you’ll find there’s a fresh twist on the sweater.
Trends this year include bell sleeves, cropped styles, fluffy or oversized sweaters, and one shoulder.
There are lots of other variations on these sweater styles, but hopefully that has got you thinking about what is most flattering for you.
Oversize sweater
A trend which is continuing this year when it comes to winter sweaters for women is the oversized sweater. To make sure you keep your outfit in balance, you could wear your oversized knitwear with slim pants or leggings.
The oversized turtleneck (below) comes in more than 30 different colors, so you’re sure to find your favorite, and wearers say it is comfy, soft and forgiving for anyone will a little bit of a tummy.
ANRABESS Turtleneck Oversized Sweater
BALLOON SLEEVE SWEATER
Voluminous sleeves have been on trend for a few seasons now, and are still very much in style this winter and fall.
The lantern sleeve sweater (below) comes in 30 shades and reviewers describe it as cute and comfy. They advise to stick to your usual size rather than sizing up as it has an oversized fit.
ZESICA Lantern Sleeve Ribbed Sweater
cropped
You could choose a cropped length sweater if you want to make your legs look longer in comparison to your torso (take a look at at how to determine your vertical body type if you aren’t sure if this is a good idea). One way to style the crop sweater (below) would be by wearing over a longer white shirt and your jeans.
Mango Puffed Sleeve Crop Sweater
polo neck
A variation on the v-neck is the polo neck, which features a v-neckline but with the addition of the collar. This is particularly on trend this season, and has a smart preppy feel to it.
J.Crew Collared V-Neck Sweater in Supersoft Yarn
Fonda @savvysouthernchic above opts for a nautical-style sweater with a zip neck.
Steal her look with this similar sweater, mock neck top, jeans and boots.
zip sweater
Choosing a zip sweater means you can alter where the neckline sits to flatter your figure.
sweater coat
One choice when the weather starts to turn cooler but it isn´t raining is a sweater coat; a long-length cardigan like the J.Crew sweater blazer (below).
J.Crew Juliette Collarless Sweater Blazer
sleeveless sweater
If you just want to add a little extra warmth, you could try a sleeveless sweater. The vest (below) would look good worn with your classic white shirt.
J.Crew Cashmere V-Neck Sweater Vest
hooded
For relaxed days, or when you want to be extra warm, you could wear a hooded sweater. The button neck sweater (below) comes in 30 colors and is perfect for weekends or travelling.
One reviewer said she picks her outfits based on softness and comfort and she loved this one so much she bought the same one again in a different color.
AlvaQ Oversized Hoodie Sweatshirt
colorblock
Colorblocking is a key trend for this fall. The Staud cardigan (below) would add interest to your winter and fall outfits. Perfect to wear with other neutrals or with red.
Staud Cargo Colorblock Cardigan
cut out sweater
The Karen Millen sweater (below) features subtle cut out details beside the buttons.
Karen Millen Viscose Blend Cut Out Detail Knit Jumper
wrap sweater
Wrap dresses and tops are always a glamorous option, and so is the wrap sweater. You can alter exactly where, and how tight, you tie it to suit your body shape.
Reviewers say the wrap sweater (below) is the perfect sweater for dressing up or casual days.
sweater dress
Of course, you don’t have to wear your sweater just as a sweater at all. You could look out for a sweater dress, and wear it with knee-high boots.
COS Power Shoulder Merino Wool Maxi Dress
Mel @curvycartel above opts for snake print boots with her sweater dress.
Recreate her outfit with this similar sweater dress and boots.
Winter sweater outfit ideas for this season
So, now that you have chosen your most flattering winter sweaters, how to you incorporate them into stylish winter outfits?
Below are 13 ideas for you. Don’t forget to let me know in the comments in you have a favorite way to wear your sweater.
1. outfits with sweaters: All neutrals
Who says you have to give up neutrals when colder weather sets in?
An all-neutral look can still look chic for winter. It tends to work best if you choose a creamier white rather than a shade which is too stark. Pr look out for soft grays and beiges.
While there are some beautiful richly-hued jewel colors among the fall color trends for 2023, whites, creams, camels and pale grays can also look stunning when looking at sweaters for women in stores, or shopping your closet. They can create real impact when worn together.
You could wear all neutrals and add a pop of color with your handbag. Or add glamour to your sweater look by teaming with metallics like silver or gold.
Ungaro Ariana Sequined Jacket – J.Crew Cashmere Classic Fit Crewneck Sweater – J.Crew Collection Wool Blend Pleated Wide Leg Pants – Naturalizer Vera Sandals – IXEBELLA Satin Pleated Clutch – J.Crew Oversized Faceted Crystal Drop Earrings
2. One color top to toe
Wearing one color from head to toe is very much on trend this season. Choose your favorite color and then wear it all the way down to your shoes. If you’d prefer, you could always add a small amount of a different color.
And, of course, you can split up your separates and wear them with neutrals if you want a different look.
JJ Perfection Open Front Long Cardigan – Karen Millen Viscose Blend Cut Out Detail Knit Jumper – J.Crew Kate Straight Leg Pants – DREAM PAIRS Low Heel Pump – COACH Soft Pebble Leather Cary Shoulder Bag – Anni Lu Iconic Pearl Drop Earrings
Natalia @odin.stylish.me above chooses an all blue outfit, and then tops with her red coat.
Check out this similar sweater (another option here), coat (another option here), pants, boots, handbag, necklace and sunglasses.
3. Over a white shirt
Wearing a sweater over any white shirt is a look that will never date. You could add a little bit of an edge by wearing leather pants or leggings.
Mango Puffed Sleeve Crop Sweater – COS Long Sleeve Shirt – AG Jeans Alexxis High Rise Leatherette Bootcut Jeans – Staud Wally Suede Ankle Boots – COACH Soft Pebble Leather Cary Shoulder Bag – J.Crew Oversized Faceted Crystal Drop Earrings
4. With your favorite jeans
It goes without saying that your sweaters are a fabulous pairing with your favorite jeans. Choose a sweater with an interesting neckline to add elegance to your everyday outfits.
J.Crew Collared V-Neck Sweater in Supersoft Yarn – Veronica Beard Taylor Wide Leg Pants – Tory Burch Clover Court Sneakers – Rebecca Minkoff Julian Leather Backpack – Jenny Bird Nouveaux Puff Earrings
5. Sweater With Wide-Legged Pants
Wide-legged pants are a stylish option no matter what the season. High-waisted styles can go beautifully with shorter, cropped sweater styles.
Ramy Brook Brianna Funnel Neck Sweater – Veronica Beard Dover Wide Leg Pants – Naturalizer Vera Sandals – IXEBELLA Satin Pleated Clutch – Jenny Bird Nouveaux Puff Earrings
Susanne @textelle above (read her style interview here) creates a half tuck with her stripe sweater, to make sure she is still showing off her waistline and her outfit doesn’t look too baggy.
Get her look with this similar sweater (another option here), wide pants, sneakers and handbag.
6. With your leggings
If you love the comfort of leggings, I’m sure you already wear yours with a tunic top.
You can continue to wear your leggings in the colder months by looking for a long jumper.
Wear an oversized or longer sweater with your leggings.
MAKARTHY Batwing Knitted Sweater – Vince Camuto Seamed Back Ponte Leggings – Cole Haan Clover Stretch Tall Boots – COACH Soft Pebble Leather Cary Shoulder Bag – Anni Lu Iconic Pearl Drop Earrings
There are plenty more tips in this extensive guide on how to wear leggings over 40 or beyond.
7. Cropped with a longer top underneath
To instantly add extra interest to your sweater outfits, you could layer a classic white shirt under your knitwear.
J.Crew Cashmere Shrunken Cable-Knit Sweater with Lurex Threads – J.Crew Thomas Mason® for J.Crew Slim Fit Shirt – Vince Camuto Seamed Back Ponte Leggings – Blondo Valen Waterproof Boots – COACH Soft Pebble Leather Cary Shoulder Bag – Anni Lu Iconic Pearl Drop Earrings
8. A Sweater With A Midi Skirt
A cozy sweater can be a soft, glamorous option with a midi skirt.
You could opt for a more casual sweater style like a turtleneck and sneakers for daywear, choose an off-the-shoulder number for an evening out, or wear a cardigan with a camisole underneath.
Staud Cargo Colorblock Cardigan – Reiss Elessia Pleated Houndstooth Wool-Blend Midi-Skirt – Cole Haan Clover Stretch Tall Boots – COACH Soft Pebble Leather Cary Shoulder Bag – Anni Lu Iconic Pearl Drop Earrings
Jamie @moreturquoise above (read her style interview here) adds different textures and prints to her cream sweater outfit.
Get her look with this similar sweater, skirt, boots, crossbody bag and sunglasses.
9. Layered with other knits
You could layer your sweater with other knits to stay warm and stylish. A turtleneck is a great layering option to wear under a poncho or long coatigan.
J.Crew Juliette Collarless Sweater Blazer – rag & bone Luca Knit Turtleneck Top – Veronica Beard Taylor Wide Leg Pants – Blondo Valen Waterproof Boots – Rebecca Minkoff Julian Leather Backpack – Jenny Bird Nouveaux Puff Earrings
10. sweater styles: As a dress
A sweater doesn’t have to end at your waist or hips. A sweater dress can be one of the easiest, most stylish outfits for winter and fall.
You don’t need to worry about matching separates. You can simply pop on your dress with tights and boots or pumps, and you’re ready to go.
COS Power Shoulder Merino Wool Maxi Dress – Staud Wally Suede Ankle Boots – Rebecca Minkoff Julian Leather Backpack – Jenny Bird Nouveaux Puff Earrings
11. sweater outfits: Layered under a dress
Again, a turtleneck is put to good use as a layering option.
Victoria Beckham has been layering hers under a shirt dress recently, but you can really layer under any dress with a lower neckline. It means you can continue wearing a thinner dress for fall and winter. Team yours with knee-high boots.
There are more tips on this in our article on how to wear a winter dress.
Theory Wool Jersey Turtleneck Top – Reiss Tabitha Belted Animal-Print Twist-Front Shirtdress – Staud Wally Suede Ankle Boots – Rebecca Minkoff Julian Leather Backpack – Jenny Bird Nouveaux Puff Earrings
Georgette @grownandcurvywoman above (read her style interview here) shows how you continue to wear your summer dresses with a sweater underneath.
Steal her look with this similar maxi dress, sweater, booties, handbag and earrings.
12. For the party season
Who doesn’t love a Christmas jumper as the festive season approaches, but that doesn’t mean that you have to adorn your sweater with reindeer and flashing baubles (unless you want to of course) when thinking about putting your party sweater outfits together.
A more subtle approach will keep you stylish for parties or Christmas morning. Mixing the textures of silk, satin, or sequins and a wool sweater or cardigan will make our outfit look chic and cozy.
Reiss Lorna Off The Shoulder Sweater – Alice + Olivia Elba Sequined Wide-Leg Pants – Naturalizer Vera Sandals – IXEBELLA Satin Pleated Clutch – Jenny Bird Nouveaux Puff Earrings
13. Matchy matchy loungewear
Coordinates continue to be on trend for the winter and fall season. For casual days, match your sweater with your pants. Barefoot Dreams is a good brand to choose for loungewear.
Barefoot Dreams CozyChic™ Ultra Lite Ribbed Cardigan – Barefoot Dreams CozyChic™ Ultra Lite® Colorblock Ribbed Lounge Pants – Tory Burch Clover Court Sneakers – Rebecca Minkoff Julian Leather Backpack – Anni Lu Iconic Pearl Drop Earrings
Winter sweaters together in one capsule
Below, you can see many of the sweaters used in this article, together in one capsule wardrobe for winter. You can see you could switch around the bottoms and tops to create many more outfits.
shop the winter sweaters for women below:
Read our ultimate guide to creating a capsule wardrobe that works best for you.
What is your favorite way to wear your winter sweaters?
Continue reading:
- The Best Winter Coats For Women This Season And How To Choose A Coat
- Where To Shop For The Best Cashmere Sweaters
- How To Fit A Blazer – A Comprehensive Guide On How To Select The Right Blazer
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Feature image by Jamie @moreturquoise
Sylvia is 40+style’s editor-in-chief and has been helping women find their unique style since 2011. An alumni of the School of Color and Design, she is devoted to empowering women of any age to look and feel their best. Read more about Sylvia and 40+style on this page.
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