We Asked a Stylist, How Do You Make a Sweater Vest Look Good

E! Illustration/Photo Credit: Taylor Doedtman

Top 3 Sweater Vest Styling Tips for Fall:

1. If the base layer is patterned, choose a solid vest: If the base layer is plain, let the vest carry the pattern.
2. Balance proportions: If the vest is roomy, add structure with tailored trousers or a fitted top beneath, like a turtleneck. 
3. Play with versatility: Dress down a tailored vest with casual jeans, or elevate the piece with a crisp button-down for the office.

The stylist likes a sweater vest for layering season, as it's good "for creating a very specific layered look," he says. 

"A vest provides some of the visual language of tailoring without requiring someone to commit to a full suit," Moussallam tells E! Insider in an exclusive interview. 

"The sweater vest is [good] as a styling piece for transitional layering," Sammie tells E!. Meaning we're approaching peak sweater season with autumn trends already arriving. So, don't delay, find out how to make the cozy trend your own.

How to Shop for Sweater Vests

"I’d shop for versatility first," says Sammie. He recommends "a slightly relaxed, not-too-long V-neck" that can easily layer over shirts and tees or under a jacket. 

Fabric type matters, too. "Wool or wool blends are the best for genuine fall warmth and a more elevated appearance. Merino is especially nice if you want something relatively lightweight."

Cotton is lighter while cashmere is warmer for the season, but usually pricier.

The trend doesn't have to be expensive. "Acrylic or synthetic blends are often more affordable and can hold bold colors and patterns well," says Sammie. "I'd prioritize the hand feel and construction over the fiber label alone."

Whatever your budget, prioritize quality. "For quality finishing, check the ribbing around the neckline and hem, whether the knit feels dense and resilient, and whether it loses its shape when stretched." 

Brands like Quince and Aritzia are known for affordable high-quality options. Or make the trend sustainable by shopping a vintage style—either way, money is no object with this trend.

Why Are Sweater Vests Trending for Fall?

"Fall may be one of the best seasons for a sweater vest because it solves the real layering problem of wanting more warmth without immediately jumping to a bulky sweater or coat," says Moussallam. 

According to the trusted stylist, the trend is as functional as fall trends can be. 

"A knit vest has a lot of practical benefits including how it adds an insulating layer around the torso while leaving your arms relatively unrestricted. That makes it easier to layer under a jacket or coat," Sammie told E!.

"It's also perfect for temperature swings, as early fall can mean chilly mornings, warm afternoons, and cool evenings. You can wear a vest over a shirt in the morning, take it off later, and put it back."

When to Wear a Sweater Vest

"A sweater vest is particularly useful for transitional fall weekends because it adds warmth without requiring a full sweater. It's easy to take the vest off if the afternoon warms up, which makes it practical for errands, brunch or walking around town."

The stylist says the trend works both casually as well as more polished for school or work. "A sweater vest can work almost anywhere," says Moussallam. "A chunky Fair Isle vest isn't going to replace a tuxedo, but a refined, fine-gauge vest can absolutely have a place at a creative-office event or relaxed dinner."

While a knit vest may not be black-tie appropriate, it is corporate. "Yes, a sweater vest over a button-down is probably the most foolproof version of the trend, and it feels particularly current for Fall 2026," says Sammie, as the staple has been spotted on several designer runways for the season. 

For an off-duty look, there's even more room to experiment. "A casual look is probably the easiest because this is where you can experiment with chunkier knits, graphic patterns, and oversized proportions. An oversized vest with baggy denim can give you a ’90s/Y2K feel, while a cable-knit vest with jeans leans more cozy and traditional."

What to Wear Under a Sweater Vest

"The best choice depends on whether you want the sweater vest to read classic, casual, sophisticated, or fashion-forward," he says.

A button-up shirt is a classic sweater vest pairing. "It’s probably the easiest and most universally flattering combination, a crisp white or blue shirt under a V-neck vest gives you instant prep/Ivy energy," says Moussallam. 

For a more contemporary look, let the shirt be oversized and leave the collar slightly relaxed.

A long-sleeve T-shirt is an easy everyday option. "A simple fitted or slightly relaxed long sleeve makes the vest feel less collegiate and more casual. White, cream, gray or black are especially easy," says Moussallam. "This is great with jeans, cargo pants, or relaxed trousers."

A turtleneck provides a sophisticated option. "A thin turtleneck underneath a vest creates a much sleeker, more fashion-forward silhouette. Tonal combinations, like a black turtleneck with a charcoal vest, are particularly effective," says Moussallam. "Keep the turtleneck relatively lightweight so you don't create too much bulk around the neck and shoulders."

Lastly, a T-shirt is the easiest transitional option. "This is ideal for early fall or warmer climates," says Moussallam. "A boxy tee under an oversized vest feels relaxed and slightly ’90s; a fitted tee under a cropped vest gives you a more Y2K-inspired look."

How to Layer a Sweater Vest Without Looking Bulky

"The trick is to create contrast rather than adding volume everywhere," says Moussallam. "A sweater vest can actually be one of the easiest layering pieces to style if you pay attention to proportion."

"If you pair a chunky vest with a slim base layer, a fitted tee, fine-gauge turtleneck or lightweight button-up, it keeps the upper half from becoming too thick.  

It is also crucial to pay attention to the armholes [to] accommodate a shirt without pulling or creating bunching around the shoulders. A vest that's too tight can make even a thin shirt look bulky. Don't be afraid of an oversized shirt underneath. The key is to make the volume look intentional." 

What Not to Wear Under a Sweater Vest

1. Chunky on chunky
"A heavy cable-knit vest over a thick sweatshirt, chunky turtleneck, or another substantial sweater can quickly become bulky around the shoulders and torso."

Instead, pair a chunky vest with a relatively thin shirt, tee, or fine-gauge turtleneck. And if you're adding outerwear, "make sure there's enough room" to avoid bunching at the shoulders and armholes.
2. Oversized everything
"An oversized vest + oversized shirt + oversized trousers can work as intentional fashion styling, but it's harder to pull off casually," says Sammie. "The silhouette can lose definition altogether."
If the vest is roomy, add structure elsewhere with straight-leg trousers, a fitted base layer, or defined waistband.
3. Too many competing patterns
"Pattern mixing isn't forbidden, but I'd make one piece the star," he advises, saying multiple prints at once can look chaotic surprisingly fast.

In summary, if the vest has a strong pattern, keep the base layer and bottoms relatively simple.

Which Sweater Vests Are Trending for Fall? 

For fall 2026, Moussallam points to classic patterns like argyle and Fair Isle, along with more dynamic designs like checks and stripes.

"Argyle is the obvious classic pattern, but it's not your only option. Fair Isle is more traditional and cozy, particularly for late fall. Color blocking can be good to bring in a modern and graphic touch, and novelty motifs are good for the playful/Y2K or eclectic crowd."

However, if you want maximum versatility or plan to wear the vest frequently, a solid color is a great choice in autumnal hues like neutral shades of brown. Or use the layering piece to incorporate some color. 

"A sweater vest is also a good place to experiment with color," says Moussallam. "Rust, mustard, forest green, cobalt, or deep red can make a simple outfit feel much more intentional."

How We Choose