We are currently in a fashion transition period. It’s not fall yet but it doesn’t feel like summer either (Sufall?). Not quite time to bring out the cold weather clothing, but we are all so excited about the fall we can’t wait for sweater weather. I think it’s a perfect time to figure out how to find the right combination for the transition from summer to fall. One of the best ways to approach this, is to stick with one of your warm weather staples, like a dress, and pair it with a cool weather favorite, like a sweater. The sweater over dress combination is perfect for the late summer and is a great trend to try regardless of your style, geographic location, or age. So, I wanted to show some great options of this trend, many which are perfect for women over 50.

How to Wear A Sweater Over Dress Combination

 

Tone-On-Tone Sweater Over Dress

I love monochromatic and tone-on-tone looks. They can be super slimming and (if you go with a beautiful, bright color) fashion-forward and edgy. This look works for women over 50 because pulling it together takes little effort and almost always comes out looking thoughtful and on-trend. If you want to try the dress/sweater combination with a tone-on-tone look, I found this satin midi length slip dress in a rich tan that can be paired with this color block sweater. One unexpected twist about this look is the color-block combination of the sweater is that it gives the whole  look a little richness and dimension.

Comfy And Casual

This dress/sweater combination is one of my favorites. I like the tailored fit of this denim dress from Nordstrom. This dress can be dressed up or down, wear it with sneakers or your most luxurious pair of leather boots. For the sweater option, this pattern button up cardigan will look fabulous. Adding this piece as a finishing touch to the denim dress adds an extra layer of interest to the outfit and will keep you nice and warm in chilly weather. I also like this look because you can wear each piece separately. The sweater will go with pretty much anything you already have in your closet.

Sleek And Sexy

If you have curves and want to show them off, I would suggest this bodycon dress from Amazon. The price is unbelievable so pick up a couple in assorted colors. The reviews on this dress are also good, stating it hugs your curves and contours your body in all of the right ways. I think a dress like this is best paired with a cropped sweater. This still allows for you to show off some curves, but also conceals your top half, giving you some modesty (and warmth). This crop sweater from ASOS is perfect and also affordable option to try for this dress/sweater combination.

Mix-And-Match

This final sweater over dress combination may not be for everyone. However, I love the idea of an unexpected twist on an outfit pairing. You can try a simple silhouette print dress like this Balance Dress from Athleta, I really like that the print is subtle but still interesting. Now, add the twist to this outfit and pair it with this color block sweater on top. This mix-and-match combination works because of the overall neutral color palette of the black and white. The warm tan in the sweater brings some color and further interest to the look without overwhelming it. 

Sweater Over Dress Style Tips

1. Mixing textures keeps things interesting. Combining textures like leather, suede, silk and satin in your dresses with different types of knits in your sweater options will make your outfit look high-end and well -styled. Even unexpected details like elbow patches, pockets or collar details in your sweaters will add depth and dimension to your look.
2. This trend extends your summer wardrobe year-round. Adding a warm, knit sweater to your favorite summer dress will allow you to find new and interesting ways to keep that dress in your regular rotation. One simple silhouette satin dress can be paired with various types of sweaters and shoe combinations regardless of the weather. You can add tights or leggings and wear it in the coolest summer months or wear a lightweight cardigan for the transitional periods of late summer and early spring.
3. Make any sweater and dress combination work for you. I’ve highlighted above some of my favorite combinations and what I think will work best for women over 50, but there are so many other options for you to create a look that will work with your personal style. Go sexy, casual, masculine, feminine, office-ready or work-from-home comfortable!

Shop Sweaters And Dresses

Pictured above from left to right:

TONE-ON-TONE

Satin High Neck Slip Midi Dress, $88

By Anthropologie Colorblock Shrug Sweater, $98

COMFY AND CASUAL

Wash Lab Denim Piece Dyed Denim Dress, $168

Zaful Women’s Button Down V Neck Long Sleeve Ribbed Knit Trim Cropped Cardigan Sweater, $35.99

SLEEK AND SEXY

ASOS Miss Selfridge Wrap Top in Cream, $48

Amazon Spaghetti Strap Bodycon Maxi Dress, $20.88

MIX-AND-MATCH

Laundry By Shelli Segal Colorblock Print Blouson Sleeve Sweater, 34.99

Athleta Balance Dress, $99

Are you going to try the sweater over dress combination this season? How will you style it?

– Carmen Turner

You may like to read more of Carmen’s trends posts like The Best Cocktail Dresses For Women Over 50 To Wear Right Now and The Non-Fall Color Trend For Autumn 2022 for Women Over 50.

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