From Casual to Put-Together: A Guy’s Guide to Great Knitwear
The Sweater and Sweatshirt: A Silent Style Weapon
A well-chosen sweater or sweatshirt does more than keep you warm—it adds structure, texture, and personality to your outfit without screaming for attention. Worn correctly, it elevates your look for the office, a date, or a casual Sunday run.
Common Mistakes Men Make
Sweaters
Crewnecks over dress shirts? Skip it. Stick with a simple tee underneath.
V-necks over t-shirts or bare skin? Don’t. V-necks are for collared shirts only.
Fit issues: Too tight feels constricting; too loose looks sloppy. Aim for something that skims your body.
Worn-out fabrics: Pilling, thinning, or holes? Upgrade.
Cardigans
Bright colors: Stick to neutrals unless you’re Mister Rogers.
Shawl-collar under jackets: These are meant as outer layers, not undershirts.
Buttoned-up on broader builds: Leave them open. Let layers do the work.
Sweatshirts & Hoodies
Loud graphics or logos: Teenage vibes, not professional style.
Using bulk to hide your midsection: The opposite effect—keep it fitted.
Workout fabrics outside the gym: Shiny, clingy fabrics don’t read stylish.
Your Sweater & Sweatshirt Playbook
Here’s how to build a lineup that works every day:
Crewneck Sweaters – The ultimate go-to. Layer over a tee, under a jacket, or wear solo. Fit matters: snug without clinging.
V-Necks – Only over collared shirts. Sharp, professional, intentional.
Cardigans – Stick to neutral tones, worn open. Adds layers without bulk.
Sweatshirts & Hoodies – Minimal graphics, focus on fit, fabric, and versatility. Perfect for casual days that still require polish.
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Banana Republic
Soft Crew-Neck Sweater
A true essential. Throw it over a crewneck tee for casual days or under a jacket when you want to look more polished.
V-Neck Sweater
Proper Cloth
Merino and Silk V-Neck Sweater
This one leans dressier. Perfect for layering over a collared shirt—especially if you’re headed into the office or a meeting.
Cardigan
Quince
Mongolian Cashmere Cardigan
Like a casual blazer, but softer and more forgiving. Great for layering and for days when you want to look pulled together without going full button-down.
Shawl Collar Cardigan
Quince
100% Cotton Shaw Collar Cardigan
This is your cozy hero piece. Think of it as a knit jacket—something that looks great on its own, especially when worn open.
Sweatshirt
Billy Reid
Dover Sweatshirt
Soft, classic, unfussy. Ideal for everyday looks. Pair with jeans or joggers, and you’re set.
Hoodie
J Crew
Slub Jersey Hoodie
Final Thought
Sweaters and sweatshirts aren’t just about warmth—they’re about presence.
Worn correctly, they make you look intentional, polished, and confident without effort. Start with fit. Stick to quality fabrics. Choose versatile, neutral tones.
Suddenly, your casual layers are doing the heavy lifting while you focus on showing up as your best self.
Brandi is a personal stylist with over a decade of experience helping men show up with confidence and ease. She offers tailored style solutions that take the guesswork out of getting dressed—so you look sharp and feel great, no matter the occasion.