Ask Harry: How Do I Style Sweaters?
Many men aren't wearing sweaters to their full stylish potential. Here’s how to change that.
By: Harry Rosen Staff
Sweaters and knits are some of the most versatile items in a man’s wardrobe — and somehow, still one of the most under-utilized. The mistake most men make isn't necessarily with styling sweaters; it's treating them all the same.
The key to building a knitwear wardrobe that actually works is understanding weight, and the different jobs each weight is designed to do. Here's how we like to break it down.
A well-chosen heavyweight knit adds visual presence and effortlessly bridges the gap between knitwear and outerwear — aka, your best alternative to a light jacket.
Whether it’s a chunky cardigan, crewneck, V-neck, or turtleneck, think of it as your anchor piece. This is the kind of item that can carry an outfit on its own without anything underneath, or serve as a considered base layer beneath a coat or overshirt.
Harry’s Styling Notes:
It’s always best to fold, not hang, your knitwear — especially the heavyweight stuff. Over time, gravity pulls knitwear’s fibres out of shape around a hanger’s hard edges, leaving noticeable bumps and grooves.
Next, the fine sweater — where knitwear gets refined.
We like to think of thin or fine-gauge knits as a cleaner, sleeker alternative to a base layer like a dress shirt or woven T-shirt. Adding little-to-no bulk, they’re year-round perfect underpinnings and are endlessly versatile for a number of different looks and occasions.
In the warmer months, fine knits can be worn on their own, while in the cooler months, we might wear ours like this:
- Find your favourite fine knit
- Tuck it into a pair of tailored trousers or dark jeans
- Layer over a sport jacket or suede bomber
- Finish with leather derbies or lace-up boots
A rollneck or turtleneck is the most versatile of the three necklines. It replaces both a shirt and a tie, works perfectly under a sport jacket, and adds elegance to even the simplest outfit.
Lastly, we need to talk about statement knits. Think: bold colours, eye-catching patterns and prints, and interesting textures — something with real personality.
When a knit has genuine presence, the rest of your outfit should step aside and let it say its piece. One focal point is always stronger than two competing ones, and a great statement knit needs nothing more than confidence and a great supporting cast to pull off. In this case, less really is more.
- Start with a statement sweater
- Add a plain white tee base layer
- Pair with neutral pants, like white jeans or charcoal grey dress pants
- Finish with white sneakers or black loafers
Keep your bottoms in a neutral — white, stone, navy, grey, or black — and let the statement knit carry the outfit. Resist the temptation to match or contrast with another bold piece.
Heavyweight for presence and warmth. Fine knit for refinement and versatility. Statement knit for personality and expression. Build your knitwear wardrobe around these three categories and you'll always have the right sweater for the occasion — whatever it calls for.
Not sure where to get started? with one of our expert Style Advisors in-store and let us help you build a knitwear wardrobe you can rely on all season long.
Have a men’s style question? Reach out to us on Instagram @harryroseninc and we’ll answer it next time.