How to style a jumper: outfits and ideas

A wardrobe staple, jumpers can be styled for any occasion. From casual outfit ideas to more formal, here’s how to style them with expert tips from WYSE London. First off, a jumper is your best friend all year round. Whether you want something slouchy yet stylish to work from home in, or are looking for a piece you can instantly elevate to wear in the evening (or ideally, both), a jumper outfit really should be your go-to. Did we mention cardigans too? At WYSE, we aim to cater for all your knitwear whims and fancies, but because we believe the proof of a good purchase is in the cost-per-wear, here are some styling ideas to help you get the most out of your wardrobe.

How to style a jumper

Let us count the ways! You can go oversized or keep it streamlined, dress your knit up, or make it more casual – the choice is yours, just think about proportions. If you’re going bigger on top, the bottom half of your outfit should be slimmer fit and vice versa. So, wear a slouchy jumper or chunky knit cardigan with slim jeans, or pair a skinny merino polo-neck or cashmere jumper with wide-leg flares or a tiered skirt. Also, the details make the difference – push up your sleeves to show off shirt cuffs underneath, or the stripes of a Breton. Tuck a fine knit into high-waisted trousers or try the ‘French tuck’ (tucking just the front of your jumper into your waistband) with a bigger knit to create more definition at your waist. Add chandelier earrings or red lipstick to transform a simple marl grey jumper. A belt over a cardigan instantly gives it shape. Tuck longer hair into a funnel neck jumper for effortless Parisian girl chic. Look for jumpers that start a conversation (sequins, stripes, prints) as well as those that quietly do all the hard work in the background. Explore our jumpers

How to style a cashmere jumper

WYSE is synonymous with cashmere (we’ve never met a knit we didn’t love), but we love it for its versatility as much as its quality. Cashmere comes in all shapes and sizes, so you can wear it for any occasion. Instead of saving it for best, pair your cashmere jumper with sweatpants and sliders to make it laid-back. At the weekends, layer an oversized striped knit over a denim shirt, and in the evening, tuck it into a satin skirt with heels. Colour is key – black, grey, navy and tan work as neutral shades to mix with prints, while rainbow stripes and sequins feel playful. A cream cashmere jumper with cream jeans always feels pulled-together. Cashmere used to feel a bit too serious, but at WYSE we add print and stripes to make ours modern. Finally, remember it’s never one size fits all. The same cashmere jumper can do different jobs depending on the fit – go smaller for a neater, more polished look, and buy one or two sizes up for a relaxed vibe.

How to style a knitted Tanks

The season’s hit knit has to be a knitted tank. It’s a useful extra layer to keep out the chill (try layering under a quilted jacket for warmth without bulk), but it’s also perfect for adding interest to a simple outfit. A knitted vest complements jeans and a long-sleeve shirt beautifully, especially with puff shoulders, high necklines or ruffle cuffs. Choose a neutral shade and let your shirt stand out, or use it as a pop of colour in an otherwise simple look. Tanks also work over long-sleeve dresses – a slimmer fit knit creates a more streamlined shape and looks best if it stops at your natural waist. Play around with prints and colours – we love a bright knit with a chambray or striped shirt, and a patterned sweater tanks over a printed dress feels modern and fresh.

How to style a roll neck jumper

If you don’t yet own a roll neck, now’s the time. The question is whether to go big or small? A slim-fit roll neck is super useful – layer under your dresses for an instant refresh. Navy and grey are classics, but ivory lifts the complexion beautifully. Skinny rib jumpers also work under dungarees, tucked into cords or layered under a blazer. Talking of blazers, a chunkier funnel neck also looks brilliant under tailored jackets. That oversized funnel neck provides a cool contrast to a sequin skirt, too, so consider it for a night out. If in doubt, buy both – a slim fit and a chunky knit – and cover all bases.

How to style a jumper over a dress

Jumpers and dresses are a surprising match made in heaven – one becomes more elevated, the other less formal. Wear an oversized jumper over a satin slip dress for the evening or belt a cardigan over a dress instead of a coat – then just add heels. A chunky roll neck belted over a midi dress with knee-high boots brings effortless 70s vibes.Colour and shape are key – layering tonal shades helps you look pulled together, or choose a knit with several colours so you can style it with different pieces you already own.