If you've fallen into the same pandemic-induced style rut that we have, you are likely confined to a few hero items: sweatshirts, sweatpants, leggings, etc. When you wear them all together, the combination is dripping in informality. Luckily, you won't have to stop wearing said items post-pandemic, you simply have to change
how
you wear them. A quick switch-up of the styling allows the wearer to extend the life of these seemingly mundane items by donning them outside the context of loungewear.
For the purpose of today's styling exercise, we are specifically examining a crewneck sweatshirt, which we all have in our closets. Though you may be wearing yours with coordinating track pants these days, the comfy classic does not necessarily have to be relegated to a sweat suit. As the sweatshirt is such a casual item, you'll notice each of the looks we've rounded up has counteracted its relaxed nature with a more polished element. Whether that's in the form of a handbag, a pleated skirt, a loafer, etc., this contrast is key in dressing up the item in question. Continue scrolling to discover how you can work a sweatshirt into your ensembles outside the context of loungewear.
Pleated Mini Skirt + Loafers
Right photo: Courtesy of Instagram/@chrissyfordEmbrace your inner high-school student and opt for a pleated skirt with a mini hemline. The addition of the loafer adds the perfect amount of polish to this youthful ensemble.
Mock Neck Sweatshirt
Pleated Mini Skirt
Cotton Socks
Button-Down + Jeans
Right photo: Courtesy of Instagram/@shotfromthestreetContinuing on our preppy path, we can't get enough of this polished layering. The button-down-sweatshirt-combo is a timeless combination and the tonal denim keeps the look subtle.
Rustic Cotton Sweatshirt
501 Skinny Jeans
Slim Baird McNutt Irish Linen Shirt
The Frances Loafer
Clubmaster 52mm Rectangular Sunglasses
Bike Shorts + Sneakers
Right photo: Courtesy of Instagram/@ladydirevengelooksNo matter how many years we put between ourselves and these looks, they never get old. Whether you're heading to the gym or not, this sporty pairing is timelessly chic.
Grateful Dead Los Angeles Crew Neck Sweatshirt
High Waist Biker Short
Originals Rec Sock
White T-Shirt + White Jeans
Right photo: Courtesy of Instagram/@jessalizziA nontraditional styling trick, your sweatshirt can actually act as an accessory instead of a top. Opt for a monochromatic white look then drape a sweatshirt in a contrasting color over your shoulders.
Brushed Back Cotton Blend Velour Sweatshirt
U Crew Neck Long Sleeve T-Shirt
Le Jane Straight Leg Jeans
Wide-Leg Jeans + Sneakers
Right photo: Courtesy of Instagram/@_jeanettemadsen_Yes, the goal of these looks is to polish your sweatshirt up a bit but you never want to cross the line into too formal. A relaxed pair of white leg jeans and a pair of sneakers keeps the overall ensemble looking relaxed.
The Crew
Wide Leg High Waisted Jeans
Ava Leather Micro Bag
Coordinating Midi Skirt + Sneakers
Right photo: Courtesy of Instagram/@amysmilovicPlay with your proportions by contrasting a boxy sweatshirt with a skirt cut in a slim silhouette. Keep it tonal to make sure your eyes focus on the shapes.
Crossed Pencil Skirt
Wreath Logo Embroidered Sweatshirt
Marble Run Star Hike High Sneakers
Tonal Denim + Handbag
Right photo: Courtesy of Instagram/@lisafolawiyoIf you’re ready to experiment with color, this purple tonal look is bursting with sartorially induced happiness. We love the addition of the polished handbag in a slightly darker shade to intensify the color combination.
Heavyweight Recycled Cotton Sweatshirt
For You Embroidered Jeans
Albane Cross-body Bag
Top photo: Courtesy of Instagram/@lisafolawiyo
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