How To Style A Sweatshirt (6 Outfit Ideas)

The inspiration for this post came from a recent search on Pinterest I did – ‘how to style a sweatshirt’ and ‘sweatshirt outfit ideas’ – when trying to decide what to wear to an event.

After recently updating my non-lycra wardrobe, I’ve realised that it will need some adapting for when the colder weather sets in. However, my day to day personal style is still a sporty look which can be easily switched up to smart casual. 

So as much as you can take the girl out of lycra, I’m still gonna be a fan of an oversized sweatshirt (especially with a hood and kangaroo pocket) or a simple crewneck sweatshirt.  

I feel like a decent sweatshirt is the unsung hero of any wardrobe. They’re so much more than just a cosy layer. They’re super versatile, blending fashion and function; the ultimate win, no?! 

Sweatshirt Outfit Ideas

I basically wrote this post to save me having to go to Pinterest everytime I’m looking for a sweatshirt outfit idea. There are so many different ways you can style your sweatshirt, but I’m gonna share some of my favourites covering looks from relaxed to smart casual. 

Choose the Right Sweatshirt 

There are many different styles of sweatshirts you can get but my advice is to opt for a clean, simple classic sweatshirt. You certainly can’t beat a black sweatshirt. For the pictures in this post, I used my favourite adidas sweater in black and could easily be swapped out with pink (as above) for a pop of colour. 

All items featured are from my wardrobe. The sweater is an old adidas favourite whilst some products have been gifted through the adidas Blogger Community. Hit up the adidas website to check out both women’s and mens tracksuits, which of course, you can style the tops as per the outfit ideas in this post.

How To Style A Sweatshirt For Winter Outfits 

As it’s basically Autumn/Winter when I’m writing this, I’m gonna start the outfit inspiration with warmer outfit ideas, both casual outfits and a couple more dressy options. 

Sweatshirt, Skinny Jeans and Collared Shirt 

I feel like the sweatshirt and jeans combination is a real classic. I went for skinny jeans and a white short which in my opinion, elevates the outfit from casual to smart casual. You can then choose your footwear – chunky trainers like I’ve gone for, or maybe a pair of ankle boots? 

This is a super easy way to style a sweatshirt with a pair of jeans you’ve already got in your wardrobe, ready for those days when you’ve “got nothing to wear”. 

Layering Option: Bomber Jacket 

If it’s a bit colder and you need another layer over your sweatshirt, then enter the bomber jacket. I legitimately remember when I was in secondary / high school and bomber jackets were all the rage. It’s always kinda weird when fashions come back full circle. 

Size up 1 or 2 sizes for a more oversized look and choose an autumnal colour (I’ve got burgundy and black). 

Oversized Denim Jacket 

Another great way to layer your sweater for the cold weather is with an oversized denim jacket; yet another throwback to my youth. I love customising my denim jacket with pins and I keep the sleeves slightly rolled up. I do prefer wearing the denim jacket with regular hoodies, but a sweatshirt will work just as well too. 

Maxi Denim Skirt 

My latest favourite outfit idea is teaming a cosy sweatshirt with a maxi denim shirt for a laid back look. This skirt has been my favourite purchase, like, ever. I’m certain it’s gonna transition through the seasons well… with long boots when it gets super cold in the winter months for example. 

But for now, I’m teaming it with my favourite adidas trainers, a simple sweatshirt tucked in at the front and I’m good to go. What do we think about adding a belt??

Black Leather Jacket 

I bought myself a biker jacket in leather after wearing out my ‘plastic’ one through heavy use. I figured it’ll last me a lifetime, especially if I take care of it. It’s a stylish way to add an additional layer for a trendy look. 

I think fitted sweatshirts are better options, as my jacket for example, doesn’t have a massive amount of space for any extra thick layers. So maybe even a knit sweater? I’ve got some nice ‘thinner’, slim fit sweaters from lululemon a few years back. 

How To Style A Sweatshirt For Summer Seasons 

When Spring arrives and there are spells of warm weather, a sweater makes the perfect extra layer for the cooler mornings and evenings. 

Biker Shorts 

Pair a comfy sweatshirt with biker shorts aka cycling shorts for the perfect transitional outfit. It’ll also make for a good travel outfit, especially if you’re flying somewhere warmer from a cold location. 

Leave home and travel in leggings then swap to shorts before you land. Pop a short sleeved top under your sweater and simply drape your sweater over your shoulders or wrap it around your waist when you need to take it off. 

Who knew that a sweatshirt could be such a versatile piece of clothing? Hopefully you’ve been inspired to put together the perfect outfit whether you’re looking for a more casual look or a smart-casual look. 

Got another way to style a sweatshirt you wanna share?! 

Elle