HOW TO STYLE COLLARED SWEATERS

Layering is essential during the cooler months, making sweaters a perennial favorite. More than just a safeguard against frigid weather, well-styled knitwear is the perfect centerpiece of most winter wardrobes. 

A chunky knit or crewneck is perfect for casual ensembles, but certain occasions call for an elevated look. In those cases, nothing displays the sweaters' versatility quite like a collared sweater. Women’s collared sweaters make elegant styling easy, thanks to details such as dressed-up buttons, half-zips, and simple stitching. This refined twist on the traditional jumper comes in numerous designs and fabrics, adapting well to any style. Allow us to offer some insight on how to complete any sweater with a collar outfit.

TYPES OF WOMEN’S COLLARED SWEATERS

Like any longtime seasonal staple, there are countless takes on the sweater-with-collar style, ensuring there are plenty of options to fit any wardrobe.

Explore these collared sweater designs and the styles they best support:

Half-zip

Perhaps the most ubiquitous collared sweater style is the iconic half-zip. Also known as a sports sweater or quarter zip, this design boasts both subtle to bold hardware and a casual feel.  These zippered tops generally pair well with outdoorsy and athletic separates—think khakis, cargo pants, and leggings. Among the top brands for half-zip designs is Varley, which offers a gorgeous assortment of casual and sporty styles.

Collared cardigans

Buttons make any top a little more studious and sophisticated, and a collared cardigan is no exception. Wear it closed over a tank, or open it up for a layered look. This style provides balance in feminine ensembles, complementing any length skirt, a pair of elegant heels, and a handbag. Marni carries a range of charming wool cardigans that work well over skirts and dresses alike.

Polo sweater

V-neck collared sweaters are among the most comfortable and timeless designs, having stood the test of time in business-casual scenarios. Much like a collared dress shirt,a minimalist polo sweater reliably pairs with almost anything. Dress it up with a silk skirt, or evoke a rebellious vibe in leather pants. Theory and Vince create flattering polo sweaters in beautifully dyed wool and cashmere.

HOW TO WEAR A COLLARED SWEATER

Collared sweaters are an excellent foundation for any outfit, needing very little to appear elevated. They pair equally well with jeans, leather pants, skirts, and dresses. A cleverly styled sweater can recontextualize an outfit to embody refined business-casual or relaxed cozy-chic.

We’ve brainstormed nine styling ideas to inspire outfits and work this all-purpose garment into any context:

Match color tones

Monochromatic outfits are easy to put together but always appear well-thought-out and sophisticated. Ensure the sweater, pants, shoes, handbag, and jewelry fall within the same shade, reserving other hues for a highlighted accent piece. Stay cool with neutral earth tones, or go bold with a vibrant color.

Cashmere with satin

Cashmere and satin are a match made in heaven: two luxurious fabrics that offer the comfort of loungewear while remaining sophisticated. For this pairing, choose a lush cashmere collared sweater and pair it with either pants or a skirt in delicate satin. Stick to solid colors or a subtly printed bottom, and finish the look with a soft leather shoulder bag and mules.

Zip sweater and chains

Once you see it, there’s no denying the compatibility between a half-zip sweater and a chain necklace. The glint of these small metallic details creates a refined-yet-edgy combo that pairs well with rugged combat boots, cargo pants, and watches.

Half-buttoned bold print

Feeling nostalgic? An adventurous, vintage-inspired print boldly conveys retro vibes. Choose a rich, brightly patterned alpaca wool sweater, paired with understated white jeans and sneakers.

Layered over a turtleneck

For a layered sweater with a collar look, don a turtleneck base layer in a contrasting color. This combination is perfect for spring and fall, when fluctuating temperatures demand more insulation. Complete the look with wide-leg jeans or corduroy pants and classic sneakers.

Worn with biker shorts

Everyone needs a go-to smart and sporty outfit. Whether it’s for running errands or hitting up the gym, a half-zip collared sweater and biker shorts are effortlessly stylish with the right accessories. Emphasize “on the go” energy with designer streetwear sneakers, high socks, a tote bag, and sleek headphones.

Collared cardigan sweater + skirt

Collared cardigans strike the perfect balance between preppy and comfortable. For a modern yet modest look, pair a collared cardigan with a long maxi skirt in a piece of equally soft fabric or chic leather, and add loafers or sneakers.

Matching tailored look

Nothing compares to the refined composure of a well-tailored matching set. Whether the collared sweater and pants are coordinating in color or share a common embellishment, matching pieces need little assistance to appear exceptionally stylish. Add a pair of statement boots for a pop of color, or wear simple heels to underscore the look.

Slim-fit sweater + blue jeans

A slim-fit collared sweater always looks great with blue jeans, and it’s even better in a funky pattern. After comfortably tucking the sweater into wide-cut jeans—add a belt as a finishing touch. Top it off with sweet kitten heels and a structured handbag during sunny months, or layer on a down-filled puffer vest in cooler weather.

Collared knit + leather pants

Knits and leather make a surprisingly seamless pair that’s equal parts daring and inviting. To achieve this balancing act, wear a vibrantly colored knit over black or brown leather pants. And when the weather cools, a blazer will keep the fun going.

ALL ABOUT SWEATERS

No matter the occasion, sweaters are a key component of every wardrobe. For more inspiration, search our editorial archives, where Neiman Marcus offers advice on looking your best in all manner of styles. Now that we’ve explored how to style a collared sweater, learn what to wear with a crew-neck sweater or discover skirt and sweater outfit ideas. Our extensive catalog offers a range of topics to help you build the perfect wardrobe.  

For personalized styling tips and outfit recommendations, book a one-on-one in-store or virtual appointment with a Neiman Marcus style advisor.