How to style a Sweatshirt

The sweatshirt is now a wardrobe essential, which can be styled for virtually any occasion, even those at the more formal end of the spectrum. Whether you're dressing for a casual Friday at the office, a weekend trip into town with friends, or just out walking the dog, the right sweatshirt offers comfort and style. This guide looks at ways to make this casual staple into something a little more stylish. 

sweatshirt styles

A sweatshirt is a sweatshirt, right? Well, almost. But before diving into styling options, it's worth familiarising yourself with the different types of sweatshirts available. The classic crew neck remains the most traditional and popular option, offering a silhouette that suits most body types. Its simple, round neckline makes it incredibly versatile for layering, too. Hooded sweatshirts (or hoodies) bring a more casual street-inspired edge to your look. Available in pullover or zip-up variations, they offer additional warmth and a more relaxed vibe.

V-neck sweatshirts create a more elongated silhouette and can appear a bit dressier than the crew neck versions, making them suitable for smart-casual settings. Oversized sweatshirts match the trend towards roomier silhouettes, offering both comfort and a contemporary feel, especially when paired with slimmer trousers or leggings. Quarter-zip or half-zip sweatshirts bridge the gap between casual and smart, and let you choose the neckline.

LAYERING PROPERLY

Sweatshirts work great as layering pieces, particularly during the UK's changeable weather. Try wearing a shirt beneath a crew neck sweatshirt for cooler autumn and spring days, allowing the collar and hem to peek out for a preppy, layered look. This combination works perfectly with chinos or dark jeans for a smart-casual office environment. During dry winter days, you can even layer a lightweight roll-neck jumper under an oversized hoodie for a cool alternative to a coat or jacket. A sweatshirt also makes a comfy mid-layer between a t-shirt and a blazer or light jacket for an effortlessly stylish appearance.

For changeable weather, wear your sweatshirt under a leather jacket, denim jacket, or lightweight mac, creating a look prepared for whatever the British weather has in store. Women can experiment with layering sweatshirts over summer dresses with tights for an unusual autumn look that balances femininity and casual elements.

colour considerations

While grey, navy and black sweatshirts offer maximum versatility, don't shy away from incorporating colour! For a bold statement, consider bright hues like mustard yellow or royal blue, which can lift everyone's mood during dreary winter days. When wearing vibrant sweatshirts, balancing the look by keeping the rest of your outfit relatively subdued is a good idea. Pastels work wonderfully during spring and summer - think mint green, lavender, and pale pink for a fresh alternative to traditional neutrals. 

If you're committed to neutral tones, you can still introduce a bit of colour through oatmeal, forest green or burgundy. They function almost like neutrals, and work particularly well during autumn and winter, complementing the seasonal palette. Colour-blocking (pairing complementary or contrasting colours) always creates interesting outfits. Try a mustard sweatshirt with navy trousers, or a pale blue sweatshirt with deeper blue jeans, for example. You get a coordinated look that's quite bold and looks pleasantly unfussy. 

styling for different occasions

The versatility of sweatshirts allows them to work across various settings with the right styling approach. For everyday casual, pair a classic grey crew neck with slim jeans or joggers and white trainers for a simple, cool weekend look. Add a beanie and puffer jacket during colder months. Dial up the smartness with a well-fitted sweatshirt, worn with tailored trousers or a pleated skirt, ankle boots and a smattering of minimalistic jewellery. The juxtaposition of casual and formal elements can balance a contemporary outfit.

The "athleisure" look continues to be in vogue. It's about recognising the sweatshirt's sporty origins by pairing it with leggings, track pants, and clean, minimalist trainers. Add a crossbody bag and sunglasses for an outfit transitioning from workouts to weekends. Finally, don't dismiss sweatshirts for social occasions. A black crew neck sweatshirt paired with a leather skirt or trousers, statement jewellery, and heeled boots creates an unexpected yet fashionable evening look for ladies. Guys can achieve a bohemian cool with a pair of narrow black jeans and Chelsea boots worn with a black sweatshirt.

FINISHING TOUCHES

Accessories can transform a simple sweatshirt into a considered outfit. For women, statement necklaces worn over a crew-neck sweatshirt add a touch of polish, while a light scarf introduces texture and warmth to hoodies. Men can add a watch, subtle bracelets, or a good-quality leather belt to accessorise even the most basic sweatshirt. Footwear impacts the overall feel of your outfit, too. Most boots create a sophisticated look, while trainers maintain casual coolness - just avoid dress shoes if possible; something about them doesn't work with a sweatshirt. Loafers are about as casual as you can go with shoes; worn with a sweatshirt and chinos, you'll hit the smart-casual sweet spot perfectly!

The sweatshirt's journey from sportswear staple to fashion essential is now complete. By considering style, fit, colour and pairings, this comfort piece can become one of the hardest-working items in your wardrobe. Whether you're dressed up with tailored garments or embracing its casual glory, the sweatshirt offers endless styling possibilities.