How to wear a sweatshirt dress | 9 styling ideas

Have you seen the sweatshirt dress fashion trends popping up recently as the winter months are getting near? Well, here is the ultimate guide for how to wear a sweatshirt dress – add this wardrobe staple to your cold weather wardrobe today using these style tips.

What is a sweatshirt dress?

A sweatshirt dress is a casual, comfortable piece of clothing that combines the cozy, relaxed fit of a sweatshirt with the length of a dress. Typically made from soft, stretchy fabrics like cotton or fleece, sweatshirt dresses have the same features as traditional sweatshirts, such as long sleeves and ribbed cuffs or hems, but they are designed to be longer, often hitting at or just above the knee.

Types of sweatshirt dresses

Sweatshirt dresses come in various styles and designs, allowing for different looks and levels of comfort. Here are some of the different types:

1. Oversized Sweatshirt Dress

• Description: A loose, relaxed fit that drapes comfortably over the body.
• Style: Usually slouchy with dropped shoulders, creating a casual and laid-back look.
• Pairing: Often worn with leggings, tights, or sneakers for a comfortable, everyday outfit.

2. Fitted Sweatshirt Dress

• Description: A more tailored style that hugs the body, offering a streamlined silhouette.
• Style: Can have a slight taper at the waist or be form-fitting throughout.
• Pairing: Looks great with boots or heels for a more polished look while maintaining comfort.

3. Hoodie Sweatshirt Dress

• Description: A sweatshirt dress with a built-in hood, similar to a hoodie.
• Style: Adds an extra casual, sporty element to the dress.
• Pairing: Perfect outfit with sneakers, beanies, or casual jackets for an athleisure-inspired outfit.

4. Sweatshirt Dress with Pockets

• Description: A sweatshirt dress that includes functional pockets, either on the sides or in a kangaroo-style front.
• Style: A practical, casual option for those who want extra comfort and utility.
• Pairing: Pairs well with casual footwear like sneakers or slides.

5. Maxi Sweatshirt Dress

• Description: A long, floor-length version of the sweatshirt dress.
• Style: Ideal for cooler weather or when you want a more dramatic, cozy look.
• Pairing: Works with boots or even ankle-high sneakers to balance the length.

6. Sweatshirt Dress with a Zip or Button Detail or collared neck

• Description: A sweatshirt dress that features a zipper, buttons, or other fastenings, or collar as part of the design.
• Style: Can be functional (e.g., for adjusting the fit) or decorative, adding an extra layer of detail.
• Pairing: Pairs well with chunky shoes or ankle boots for a fashionable edge on a chilly day.

These different styles of sweatshirt dresses are a great option for a wardrobe staple that can be styled for different occasions, from casual days to special occasions to slightly more polished overall looks, depending on the fit and accessories.

How to wear a sweatshirt dress

I love the versatility of this garment. Styling a casual sweatshirt dress outfit can be done so many different ways, there are sure to be a few that fit with your personal style and create a fashion-forward look.

Pair with Statement Footwear

Sweatshirt dresses can be dressed up or down in different ways by varying your footwear. For example:

• Sneakers: For a laid-back, sporty vibe, pair your sweatshirt dress with a clean white sneaker, or different colors of slip-on sneakers.
• Boots: Knee boots, ankle boots, or combat boots can add edge and warmth to your look, especially for colder months.
• Heels: If you want to elevate the dress for a more polished appearance, try pairing it with heeled boots, ankle boots, or block heels. They are a great way to give the dress a more structured and dressed-up feel.

Styling option 1 – leopard booties

Styling option 2 – Combat Style Boots

Layer with Outerwear

Add an extra layer over sweatshirt dresses for an easy way to create dimension.

• Denim Jacket: A classic denim jacket over a sweatshirt dress creates a cool, effortless look. You can also opt for a cropped denim jacket to emphasize the dress’s silhouette. This is one of my favorite ways to style a sweatshirt dress – whether it be with a classic blue denim jacket or another color option.
• Leather Jacket: A sleek leather jacket can add an element of toughness and sophistication, perfect for colder weather.
• Trench Coat: For more refined & chic looks, layer a trench coat over your sweatshirt dress. The contrast between the structured coat and the relaxed dress makes for a balanced look.
• Puffer Coat: A long puffer coat can work perfectly with an oversized sweatshirt dress, especially during colder months. Pair it with boots for maximum warmth and style.

Styling option 3 – Denim jacket

3. Add Accessories for Extra Style

best thing, variety of ways, versatile pieces, collared shirt

• Scarves: A chunky knit scarf or a lightweight, patterned scarf can make a sweatshirt dress look more layered and stylish.
• Belts: If your sweatshirt dress is oversized or loose, cinching it with a belt at the waist can add shape and definition. A wide belt, leather belt, or even a statement buckle can make a big difference.
• Hats: A beanie, fedora, baseball cap, or wide-brim hat can add an element of personal style and keep you cozy in cooler weather.
• Jewelry: A statement necklace, chunky bracelets, or bold earrings can help elevate your sweatshirt dress for a more trendy or sophisticated look.

Styling option 4 – a beanie and flannel vest

Styling option 5 – statement earrings and bracelet

4. Play with Layers

• Tights or Leggings: For colder months, layer your sweatshirt dress with tights or leggings for added warmth. Black tights are always a classic choice, but you can also experiment with patterned or colored tights.
• Knee-High Socks: Pair your dress with knee-high socks and boots for a playful, schoolgirl-inspired look.
• Shirts or Tees Underneath or over the top: For a more layered look, try wearing a long-sleeve shirt or a graphic tee underneath your sweatshirt dress. This adds an extra dimension to your outfit. Alternately, wear a flannel shirt unbuttoned, but knotted at your waist, or even just wear the flannel shirt tied around your waist using the sleeves.

Styling option 6 – dressed up look with Tights

6. Choose the Right Accessories for the Occasion

• Casual Look: Pair your dress with sneakers, a beanie, and a backpack for a cool, street-style-inspired outfit. Opt for minimal jewelry to keep the vibe relaxed.
• Evening Look: To dress it up for a night out, choose sleek ankle boots, add a statement necklace, and layer with a leather jacket or tailored blazer. You can also add a clutch for a more polished appearance.
• Work Look: If your sweatshirt dress is more fitted, try pairing it with ankle boots or flats and a structured blazer. Keep accessories simple and elegant for a professional look.

Styling option 7 – a dressed-up look with leopard

Go Monochrome

• Match Your Dress: Keep the whole outfit in a similar color family for a streamlined, fashionable monochromatic look. For example, pair a grey sweatshirt dress with gray boots and a matching gray coat. Monochromatic outfits look sophisticated and are easy to pull off.

styling option 8 – grays and silvers

8. Add a Pop of Color

• Vibrant Accessories: Use accessories like a colorful scarf, shoes, or bag to add contrast and life to a neutral sweatshirt dress. This can bring a playful, fun twist to an otherwise simple outfit.
• Bright Shoes: Neon sneakers or boots can instantly make a sweatshirt dress stand out.

styling option 9 – a pop of pink

Consider the Length of the Dress

• Mini Sweatshirt Dress: For a more playful and casual vibe, wear a mini dress with tights or leggings, and opt for knee-high boots or sneakers.
• Midi or Maxi Sweatshirt Dress: These longer dresses look great with ankle boots, or you can pair them with a statement belt to define your waist. For colder weather, add a long coat or a chunky cardigan on top.

Styling option 10 – maxi with layers and a statement belt

By mixing and matching these elements, you can create a wide variety of looks with your sweatshirt dress, whether you’re going for a comfortable look, a sporty look, chic, or even something for a more formal occasion. The key is to balance comfort with style, making the sweatshirt dress as versatile as possible!

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