Style Sweaters Over the Shoulders for an Effortless Look

It’s chic, refined, and oh-so versatile — the preppy casual, over-the-shoulder sweater look has proved itself time and time again one of the most functional trends used by all style enthusiasts. Any fashion editor is sure to acknowledge its role in everyday wardrobe. Whether seen on the streets in new york city in stylish corporate offices, the pullover style of draping a simple sweater over the shoulders is a go-to.

The benefits of utilizing this trend beyond the winter season are endless. For one, dressing for the chillier weather is always a struggle. It becomes the norm to layer up on sweaters, coats, long sleeve tops, jackets, and inevitably, we can’t help but look like we’re wearing our entire winter wardrobe even when we’re just running out for one ‘quick’ errand. So if there’s any way we can avoid carrying all those layers as we run in and out of places, we’re all for it. And if there’s a way that’ll make us look effortlessly styled with minimal effort — all the better.

The perfect solution? Effortlessly draping a high quality sweater over the shoulders is an easy way to add another layer that can take on the role of an accessory as well. Preppy casual, quiet luxury, effortlessly chic — however you want to call the look, there’s no denying how smart and composed it makes you appear even with the least amount of effort. But how does one execute such an effortlessly refined look?

How to Style the Over-the-Shoulder Sweater Look:

Choose a sweater with a medium knit
Avoid a bulkier, heavier sweater
Avoid thin, crepey sweater
Select an average, true-to-size sweater
Avoid oversized sweaters
Heaver, long sleeves can work as well

The key is to choose a sweater that’s actually not too thick. A sweater that’s somewhere between a medium knit and an average size will do. If the sweater is too thick, the knot will appear too bulky and even have a hard time actually staying on your shoulders. However, if the sweater is too thin, the look may appear skimpy and overall may not deliver.

Take a look at these over-the-shoulder sweater street style outfits for inspiration to strategize on how you’d like to master this perfect year-long trend to keep you stylish through the chillier, more unpredictable weather days.