What do you envision when I tell you to picture a sweater vest? Your grandma on Christmas Eve? The pastel yellow nightmare you’re forced to wear for family pictures? Maybe you’re going a more traditional route and sticking to stereotypes: the class valedictorians and Steve Urkels of the world. No matter where your brain goes, you’re probably not imagining the most fashion-forward people in your life.
Sure, a few iconic characters like Chandler Bing or Cher Horowitz have managed to pull them off without a problem, but it’s safe to say most of us didn’t feel too eager to crowd our closets with them.
That was until 2020 came along.
Mhm, you heard right. After last year, sweaters vests are now one of the most valuable items you can have in your closet. If you have no idea how that could be, don’t worry, I was right there with you until a few weeks ago.
Thanks to the influx of influencers and celebs who have proven these pieces can be styled in a variety of ways we’ve never seen before, I can guarantee after this read you’ll never think of them the same way. Maybe you’ll even have to go out and thrift one yourself.
One of the first figures to normalize this little sweater vest number is none other than mega-influencer, Emma Chamberlain. Known for her love of all things oversized and her knack for thrifting, Chamberlain proved the sweater vest mixed with street style was a combo that was sure to stay. By styling this oversized, striped vest with a short-sleeve mock neck and army green cargo pants, the look is strikingly unique without needing to be in your face (who said muted colors can’t make a statement?). Add in her braided pigtails, sunnies, and mini-hoops and there’s no denying how fun this look is.
Looking to go the more pastel, preppy look when styling your sweater vest? We’ve got you covered. Fashion influencer Lindy Goodson’s look is practically screaming spring between the colors and patterns she’s showing off. Her floral lavender blouse couldn’t be a better companion for her vibrant coral sweater vest, and her accessory choices act as the cherries on top of this flavorful fit. Pairing her statement tops with a simple black pant and shoe make the colorful pieces pop even more, and the delicate jewelry and stand-out sunnies just reinforce the idea that this knock-out look is sure to put some “prep” in your step.
Who even likes pants anyway? Fashion and lifestyle influencer Ashley Jones is a pro at pushing boundaries and setting trends, and the way she chooses to sport this sweater vest is just one of many sparkling examples. By pairing the vest with a classic white button-up, this look wouldn’t have been anything special if paired with a khaki skirt or slacks. Though, that obviously wasn’t the plan. Taking oversized chic to a new level, the classic collared shirt/sweater vest duo takes on a dynamic new look when worn as a dress. You’ll have to be daring to test out this look, but if it turns out anything like this your efforts will be well worth it.
Wanting to dress down an outfit originally suited for a night out to something appropriate for a daytime walk on the beach? Looks like you’re in the right place. Passionate about all things hair, beauty, and style, influencer Haley Odegard is no stranger to testing out a variety of looks (this one just may be one of my favs). Though a seemingly unlikely pair, this olive green satin skirt and cream sweater vest somehow come together like a match made in heaven. The satin ensures the look stays sophisticated, while the knit vest gives the fit a comfy, cozy feel. Like the others so far, Odegard also expertly accessorizes to transform a simple look into a trendsetting standout.
Last on our list, influencer Olivia Rouyre serves as a phenomenal model of how questionable thrift finds can be turned into fun fashion. Serving up looks in a sweater vest similar to one your grandpa probably owns, Rouyre’s choice to pair this with an over-sized tee and high-waisted jeans leads to a fit that would make any thrift lover’s jaw drop. As a wise man once said, “I wear your granddad’s clothes, I look incredible,” and it’s safe to say Rouyre is doing just that (Macklemore would be proud).
The Beat @APU 