Growing up, most of us couldn’t stand the itchy sweater vests our parents gave us to wear for picture day. Today, we have a new appreciation for those now-vintage sweater vests: They’re trendy, cute, and go with everything in our closet.

While keeping up with fast fashion trends isn’t the most sustainable way to cultivate your wardrobe, you can still get your hands on a trendy sweater vest. How? Thrift it! Shopping for secondhand clothes is both budget-friendly and eco-friendly. From online thrift stores to your local Goodwill, you’re bound to find an old-school sweater vest that needs a new home.

Once you find your new favorite sweater vest, you’ll need to know what to pair it with. If you want to learn how to style a sweater vest like a pro, check out these fashionable ideas.

How to Style a Sweater Vest: 6 Must-Try Looks

1. Pair It With a Dress

Photo: Instagram/@kitkeenan

Whether you’re looking to dress up your cropped sweater vest or keep it casual, you can’t go wrong with layering it over a dress! You can wear sweater vests with a mini-dress, or layer them over maxi dresses. Either way, your sweater vest will liven up an old outfit.

2. Layer It Over a Blouse

Photo: Lady in Voilet

If your sweater vest has a pop of color, try layering it over a sheer white blouse. This look is both chic and professional, and it can be worn to the office, out to brunch, or to run errands. Try a blouse that has ruffles or wide sleeves for some added flair.

3. Pair It With a Skirt

Photo: Instagram/@lifeincurve

Skirts pair with sweater vests as flawlessly as dresses. Grab a flowy skirt for a dressed-up look, or a cute denim skirt for a casual look. Either way, a sweater vest is the perfect addition to your outfit.

4. Add a Pop of Color

Photo: Instagram/@NNENNAECHEM

Don’t be afraid to add a pop of color to your sweater vest ensemble. Whether your vest comes in a bright color or a loud print, you can pair it with subdued tones. Or if your vest is solid and neutral, pair it with a bright blouse or accessories that have a fun print. The options are endless!

5. Wear It as a Dress

Photo: Affordable by Amanda

If you found your dream sweater vest at a thrift store but it’s the wrong size, there’s a solution: wear it as a dress instead of over one. You can still layer it with a blouse or even a t-shirt for a more casual look. Pair it with some boots and your go-to bag.

6. Mix & Match

Photo: Instagram/@babba

Sweater vests are super easy to mix and match. You can layer them over almost any top you like, from turtlenecks to t-shirts. And you can even wear them with any bottoms of your choice!

If you’re not a fan of skirts or dresses, and if you’re looking for a warmer look, try pairing your sweater vest with your favorite sustainable jeans. You can choose flare jeans, wide-legged bottoms, or even colorful jeggings—the ball is in your court.

You can also tie in some of our previous tips. For example, try a sweater vest layered over a blouse with flare pants that have a funky print! You’re bound to find an ensemble you’ll want to wear on the regular.

Sustainable Fashion, Sustainable Shopping, Thrift, Thrifting