While we certainly don’t see as extreme shifts in weather come wintertime in California, there are still plenty of chilly days that call for bundling up. The mornings and evenings here in wine country can get quite cool and crisp, and I personally love bringing out all of my cozy wardrobe staples during this time of year.
One must-have that I find myself consistently reaching for? A simple sweater.
Sure, a sweater is fairly straightforward to style, but knowing what to pair it with so it doesn’t get bland can be a whole other challenge. Since this will be my go-to top choice for the unforeseeable future (aka late spring), I thought I’d round up a handful of cozy sweater outfit ideas.
Whether you’re looking for a winter date night outfit or something easy yet elevated to throw on during the weekends, you’ll find inspo here!
Cozy Sweater Outfit Ideas
Satin Slip Skirt and Ballet Flats
Who said a sweater can’t be dressed up? I know that knitwear is generally reserved for more casual days and cozy outings, but this outfit idea proves that sweaters can be highly versatile. The key is to opt for a piece that’s made with good quality (no pilling or stretched out fabric!)
This burgundy pick is perfect for the winter season and it matches seamlessly with this satin slip skirt. Add ballet flats for a practical yet upscale touch or go with heels for more formal occasions. This would be a cute option to wear to a holiday party, special event, or work meeting.
Sweater, Jeans, and Kitten Heels
When dressing for a particularly chilly day, my best advice is to opt for a turtleneck sweater. There are so many cute styles out there now that have a more young and trendy feel (aka not a tight and streamlined fit.) I love the cable knit detailing on this pick and appreciate that it’s under $100. The ivory color also ensures you could pair this top with tons of bottoms, shoes, and accessories.
Make it date night-ready by styling it with some jeans, kitten heels, and a cute belt. Adding gold earrings might seem like a small detail but it can really pull the whole look together.
Sweater Set and a Warm Coat
A matching knit set? Say no more. You would truly have to convince me to get out of this ultra-comfy duo, which is honestly a great choice to throw on before doing school pick-ups or Target drive-up runs.
The turtleneck style sweater is meant to fit slightly oversized, and it would pair well with basic black leggings or straight leg jeans and some white sneakers. The pants are arguably an even more enticing “add to cart” choice, with a thick ribbed waistband that is comfy to wear yet will actually hold you in. Throw on a wool coat and slip into some UGGs or Birkenstock clogs and you’ll be set!
Sweater, Slacks, and Sneakers
A sweater and jeans make for an obvious combo, but when you don’t really feel like wearing denim, opt for some trousers instead. This pair from Target has such a cute fit (and they’re under $35, which you just can’t beat.) I’d add some white sneakers and a tote bag to make this look ideal for wearing out and about. It’s also a good option for WFH days when you want to look put together without sacrificing comfort.
Sweater, Jeans, and Ballet Flats
For a more elevated and feminine vibe, opt for a button up cardigan rather than a loose or oversized sweater. A basic gray cardi is a great piece to have in your wardrobe for year-round wear. It’s easy to layer over tanks and t-shirts and it also can be worn underneath bulky jackets and coats.
This cardigan is another great Target find that’s under $20 and comes in a ton of colors (as well as some prints.) Button it up and wear it on its own or leave it unbuttoned with a tee underneath. Either way, I’d highly suggest going with these pocketed jeans as your bottom of choice — they have such fun detailing that really adds to this otherwise simple look!
I hope this post left you with some new sweater outfit ideas. Let me know which look is your favorite in the comment section below!
