What sweater should you wear for the occasion?

Being from the Midwest, I am used to cold winters. But, I am not used to New England winters. They are a different type of cold, the kind in which you can feel the chilly air run through your bones. 

Nevertheless, I managed to find a silver lining: sweater season!

When it’s cold and gloomy outside, nothing excites me more than the thought of putting on a cozy sweater and sipping a latte. 

However, does anyone else get utterly overwhelmed at the thought of deciding which sweater to wear? If you’re anything like me and have accumulated quite a few sweaters over the years — it can be stressful to decide which one. Should I wear a chunky, oversized sweater or a more form-fitting style? Should I wear a bright color or go neutral? If these thoughts ever cross your mind when you’re getting ready in the morning, here is a guide to decide which sweater is best for the occasion.

The cable-knit sweater

This sweater is my go-to for when I want to feel put-together. There are some days I feel like I’m deep in the trenches with work or I’m struggling to find time for self-care, but wearing a cable-knit sweater is often a quick cure for this feeling. This classic, timeless piece goes well with any bottoms, from jeans to skirts, and it will instantly make you feel like you have your life under control and figured out. 

If you really want to elevate the outfit, I recommend pairing this top with a pair of pearl earrings and pulling your hair back in a slick-back bun or ponytail to really nail the polished look. 

The cardigan

After listening to Taylor Swift, I am never dissing the cardigan again. I never had anything against cardigans; I just never gravitated towards them. However, I’ve learned that they accomplish two things: coziness and comfort. If your plan for the day is to study at a cafe or perhaps curl up with a book on the sofa, then the cardigan is the way to go. 

For some reason, I don’t own any cardigans, but if I were to wear one, I think I would wear it with a pair of leggings and ugg boots and possibly throw my hair up into a messy bun.  

The v-neck or scoop-neck sweater

Let’s address the fact that most people don’t wear this type of sweater for the sweater itself. The only reason you will find someone wearing either of these styles is because the star of the show is their jewelry. The v-neck or scoop create the perfect alcove for a necklace to rest and demand someone’s attention. Because of this feature, this sweater is perfect for a nicer occasion, perhaps a night out with friends, where the jewelry can do all of the talking.

Besides a necklace — preferably one with a pendant — add a pair of hoop earrings and a stack of bracelets. I think a pair of loose-fitting jeans and fancy sneakers would be a nice addition to the look.

The crewneck sweatshirt

This one might be a little controversial. Some consider it a sweater, but I consider it a sweatshirt. Nevertheless, I think that’s part of the fun of this sweatshirt because it can be something that it’s not. The crewneck is perfect for when you want a casual fit. This top is great if you’re going to a sports game because most have graphics or designs repping different schools and teams. 

Since the goal is casual, I think there’s not much more you need to add to the look. Wear it with jeans, comfortable sneakers and a cute crossbody bag, and you’re ready to cheer on the Bulldogs at any event!

The off-the-shoulder sweater

This one sounds like an oxymoron to me. Sweaters are meant to keep you warm, so why leave your shoulders exposed to the chilly air? Anyways, I must admit, they are really cute. Since these sweaters don’t offer much coverage, I think they are best worn for an indoor event, such as a holiday party. So if you know you won’t be spending much time outdoors but still want to fit the winter vibe, this sweater is the way to go.

If we’re talking about a holiday party, then dress pants, a leather skirt or dressy jeans are great bottom options. Pair with some booties or ballerina flats to dress up the look even more.

The Y sweater

I don’t think I have to say anything further about this sweater. It’s a classic. You can’t go wrong with it. Dress it up or dress it down, it works for any occasion. There is something about this sweater that screams “school pride” but with an undertone of elegance and sophistication.

I’m not going to tell you how to wear this sweater. I’ve seen it worn with everything, from jeans to sweatpants to skirts. Like your Yale experience, this sweater is what you make of it.