As a Los Angeles gal, I have to say that I got a little excited by the burst of sunshine this past week. Not only did I toss on my favorite denim shorts and uber-buckle birkies, but I also rushed to place an order for swimsuits less my favorites sell out before spring break. But, before you decide I'm bonkers, let me disclose that I do know this fresh heatwave is only a taste of what's to come. Half the country is still covered in snow, and we have a long way to go before the warm weather sticks.
Now is that time of year when trying to dress stylishly gets a bit trickier. One moment it can be sunny, and the next raining or freezing cold depending on how the day's weather flips. I find myself standing in front of my closet wondering whether to show off some leg or cover up my gams simply because I'm a chicken for the cold and want to be as warm as possible. In my eyes, that's why a sweater dress is the perfect one-and-done style solution. It's chic, practical, and I love that this dress does all the work for me. It's so versatile for styling up different ways. Literally, you can take it from the office to cocktail hour, toss on sneakers with it for a weekend brunch or even wear it for lounging at home. It's kind of that hidden hero you hesitate even to buy, but once it earns a place in your closet, you'll never go back to saying, I have nothing to wear!
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How to wear it? Sweater dresses come in many different silhouettes and lengths. Whether you reach for a shift silhouette or statement style, there is a design for every girl. Some of my favorites are a tube-shaped dress like I'm wearing in these photos, an a-line ribbed knit, a shorter shape to pair with booties, and a statement dress with cut-out detailing.
Remember, to avoid fashion roadkill by sweater dress; you next need to find one that plays to your strengths. Be extra-conscious of your body shape and chose what's most flattering to your figure. For instance, a lady who is taller and has a boyish figure can easily rock turtleneck styles, longer lengths and vertical knitting. In contrast, a heart-shaped lady is going to skip this in favor of round neck styles with modified sleeves that de-emphasize the top half of the body as well as ruching or a flare to the skirt. Balance out a pear shape with top-focused bold detailing and a non-clingy or flare skirt. Petites will look best in a fitted dress that hits above the knees, but if you want to wear a longer length then balance this with very high-heeled boots. If you are an hourglass lady then you are truly lucky because you can wear whatever lightly fitted sweater dress you want, but maximize this by picking a single focal point, such as a chunky knit or a more whimsical neckline.
What goes with a sweater dress? It's easier to style than you might think. Make the most of your favorite sweater dress by focusing on layering and creating unexpected combinations. This will keep your looks fresh and transition your dress into multiple seasons.
Start at the bottom. Colored heels like this pair and weaving in patterns like this are ideal ways to reinvent your look. I'm also a tremendous fan of boots. I love a tall boot like this, but booties like this and this can be so stylish too.
Accessories are so much fun to weave into an outfit, and I always say the bolder, the better for a sweater dress. Chains are a huge trend right now so dress your look with a chain belt, a chunky necklace or a pair of striking hoops.
Layer up buttercup. A jacket or sweater is an easy go-to but get creative with hats and patterned tights too. Also, think of layering in reverse. Unexpected details like a striped-T, a removable bib collar or a top with dramatic long sleeves can look so extra.
Right now, the sneaker trend is so on point too for a more playful look. Pair your dress with white kicks, a cool pair of high tops or a chunky pair of trainers that also give you bonus height. For more fresh styling inspiration, be sure to sign up for my weekly newsletter that offers extra exclusive ideas to subscribers.
Photo Credits: Leah Jonas
