Many of my clients have a new found love of frocks because they are a fast “pull on and go” and generally very comfortable. Sweater dresses are a fab Fall and Winter version of crisply woven Spring and Summer dresses. If you can find a style that works, here’s an easy, practical and on-trend way to update the sweater dress look this season.
Sweater Dress: Finding the right sweater dress can be tricky so refresh your memory about these tips. Personally, I like the option of a chunkier knit because it’s less clingy and more substantial. The length and style is to your taste.
Opaque Tights: I like a tonal look with this outfit combination. For example, a grey sweater dress looks amazing with grey opaque tights. You could also wear sheer or patterned tonal tights, but opaques provide excellent coverage for sweater dresses with exposure.
Scarf: An optional extra and an effective colour vehicle. Some sweater dresses have collars that are more scarf-friendly like V-nceks, scoops or crew-necks. Cowls are less easy to wear with a scarf, but it can be done.
Heeled Desert Booties: Super comfy low heeled versions in casual suedes and distressed leathers like Clarks’ Water Row Bootie and Report’s Judith Ankle Bootie refresh the sweater dress vibe. Heeled haute hiking boots are another option.
Faux Fur Coat: A faux fur coat is fun, retro and cozy. It’s also pretty stain and lint friendly. Several of my clients are wearing faux fur coats because they add instant drama to an outfit. Add a checked coat if animal print is not your thing. The idea here is to add a non-solid topper that contrasts with the rest of the low contrast items.
Handbag: Crossbody or shoulder bags are nice handsfree options. I chose a rich orange bag because I love this type of bright with an animal print. If you want to keep the outfit casual, choose a less structured bag in suede or distressed leather.
I’ve left out the jewelry, but by all means add a necklace instead of a scarf, or rings, bracelets and earrings. The point of these formulas is to plant the seed of an idea, the next step is to personalize the formula, silhouettes and colours to make it about YOU.
