Sweaters are a wardrobe essential. They’re cozy, yet chic. They go with work outfits, travel day looks, and weekend outfits. An additional layer under your sweaters can bring even more versatility to your wardrobe. Tank tops, button ups, fitted tees, and blouses are all key to layering with sweaters. It’s possible to avoid bulkiness, awkward necklines, and overheating when you use the right layers, and you can transform your outfits.
A Few Tips On What To Wear Under A Sweater
Intentional layering is important when you’re wearing a sweater! Choosing the right layer helps keep you warm, improve comfort, and keep your outfit polished. Your sweater fabric and neckline are important when it comes to choosing what to wear under a sweater.
Different Types Of Sweater Styles And Materials To Consider
Cashmere sweaters
Cashmere sweaters is a broad category as they come in all different styles. Some are lightweight and some are thick. I typically find fitted tees, tank tops, a sleeveless button up, or a lightweight blouse fits best under any type of cashmere sweater though. My favorite cashmere sweater to layer is actually this sleeveless sweater. It looks gorgeous with this silk blouse underneath!
Crew neck sweaters
Crew neck sweaters are perfect for layering for warmth. You can also use layers under crew neck sweaters to make your outfit look casual or professional. My sweater is easy to wear casually with a t-shirt like below, but you can also add a button up to it for a work outfit. I love the same silk blouse that I mentioned above to wear with crewnecks because you can style it so the lace collar pops out of the top of your crewneck sweater. Trust me on this, ha!
Turtlenecks or mock neck sweaters are another option to wear under a crewneck sweater when you’re looking to add warmth. A slim fit or lightweight turtleneck in cotton or wool will add a little dimension to your outfit with different fabrics, and it will also help keep you warm.
V-neck sweaters
Similar to a crew neck sweater, v-neck sweaters are also easy to layer. You can wear a button up or a blouse under a v-neck for work. It looks nice styled buttoned up or with the top button or two open.
I love a high neck tank top or fitted crewneck tee under a v-neck for a casual, effortless look! Necklaces also stand out when you wear a t-shirt or tank top under a v-neck.
Wool sweaters and what to wear under wool sweaters
People have different and strong opinions on wool, as it can feel itchy to some and totally fine to others. I’m never really bothered by wool or wool blend sweaters. So, if you are trying to style a wool sweater and want to make sure it isn’t itchy, a fitted tee or lightweight turtleneck layer is an easy solution for comfort and warmth. Again, you can make your layer known or hidden.
Cotton cardigans, cotton sweaters, and open-knit or crochet sweaters
A cotton sweater or open-knit sweater might seem tricky to layer under, but a fitted cotton tank top is the perfect solution. Cotton is breathable, so it’s always a good choice. You can also go with a linen tank top – this is perfect for the beach!
Why Layering Under a Sweater Matters
Layering a sweater is a great way to feel warm and look polished at the same time. You can also improve versatility from season to season by wearing different layers under your sweaters. Let’s discuss what to wear under your sweater!
Tees, Blouse, And Tank Tops: What To Wear Under Sweaters
You’ll want your layer to feel comfortable, breathable, and warm without adding bulk. There’s nothing worse than feeling like you can’t move your arms properly because of a bulky layer.
Fitted T-Shirts & Tees
A fitted tee is one my favorite things to wear under a crewneck sweater, cardigan, or even a v-neck sweater. I rely on this one time and again to layer under all of my sweaters because it’s the perfect close fit and never bunches. I always go for a crewneck tee that’s either cotton or a blend of cotton and something a little stretchy. While they’re best for casual and everyday wear, they’re also a good option for work when you want to wear a v-neck sweater. They’ll make any v-neck sweater outfit work appropriate.
I’m wearing the first tee linked below. I also own it in black and wear that one under my black and navy sweaters. I love the pointelle tees – you can see the beautiful design on the navy t-shirt. It will add such a cute neckline to any sweater. All of these come in other colors!
I prefer short sleeve tees, but a long sleeve top is also a good option for more warmth.
Button-Down Shirts or A Blouse
If you’re looking for a preppy vibe or something that is guaranteed to be appropriate for work, a button up is the extra layer you’re looking for. I’ve also worn this silk button up to dinner under this sleeveless cashmere sweater!
If you’re wondering about styling a button up collar or any collared shirt under a crewneck or v-neck sweater, there are a few ways you can do it! The classic way is to simply fold the collar over the sweater, but you can also leave the tips of the collar tucked into the sweater if you’re wearing a crewneck. It gives an effortless vibe.
Tank Tops & Camisoles
Tank tops are another go-to layer for me when it comes to avoiding bulk. I love how they fit seamlessly under fitted sweaters, wrap sweaters, v-neck sweaters, or a crewneck. A tank top is a great option to wear under a cotton sweater because it won’t add too much heat. But, it also works with warmer materials, including wool, merino wool, and cashmere. This is honestly just an easy way to get dressed! Click here for my favorite tank top I wear under sweaters. You can see it on me below.
Okay, I clearly styled the tank top above to be shown intentionally, but there are definitely instances when you don’t want your tank top to show. If you just want an extra layer, then you should consider the neckline of your tank top and how it will work under your sweater. For example, I wanted a lightweight, scoopneck or v-neck tank top to wear under this short sleeve cashmere sweater, and it worked out perfectly. My tank top isn’t drawing any attention, but it’s also okay if you see it!
A solid colored tank top is my preference because it won’t show through when you’re wearing a lighter color sweater like I am above. You can also read my blog post on how to style short sleeve sweaters.
Turtlenecks & Mock Necks
You might not always consider wearing a sweater under a sweater. However, let turtlenecks and mockneck sweaters be the exception. These are great options to wear under cardigans or an oversized crewneck sweater to add more warmth. You can also add visual interest to your outfit with these pieces, or let them be the simple layer while your oversized sweater or cardigan is the focus point.
Outfit Styling Tips Based on Sweater Fit
Oversized sweaters
A layer with a close fit is perfect to wear under your oversized sweaters. You won’t feel bulky, and you can even tuck it into your pants or skirt for comfort.
Fitted sweaters
Seamless layers are a go-to when you need something to wear under a fitted sweater!
If you’re looking for specific sweater outfit ideas, check out my blog post on sweater and skirt outfits. I hope you’ve found some help with styling sweaters. Be sure to sign up for my Substack email list below!
