How to style a shirt under a jumper or pullover, and which colour combinations work best?
Shirts are often worn with a jumper, and then the colour of the shirt is key. If it has a pattern with other colours in it, it works well to let one of those colours return in your pullover. This creates a stylish shirt-and-jumper combination.
An important general rule is to make sure there’s enough contrast between the colours. Dark and light combinations often work well, as does a white shirt, which pairs easily with almost any colour jumper. Common colour combinations include:
- White shirt with a dark jumper (blue, grey, green or red)
- Black shirt with a yellow jumper
- Light blue shirt with a dark blue jumper
Are all shirt collars suitable to pair with a sweater?
Yes—generally, you can wear almost any shirt collar under a pullover or zip sweater. Want your collar to stay neatly in place? Go for Hidden Button Down (HBD). As the name suggests, it features a hidden button on the inside of the collar, keeping the collar looking crisp and secure. The Cut Away and Widespread are also great options. These collars are reinforced and cut in a way that leaves little room for the collar to shift.
Do you wear your shirt collar inside or outside your pullover?
Both work perfectly, but for a cleaner, more formal look you’ll usually wear the collar tucked into your knit. For a more casual, laid-back style, you can just as easily wear the collar over your pullover.
When to choose which neckline on a sweater?
That’s a very personal choice and can also differ by industry or profession. Some prefer a sweater with a V-neck. A V-neck looks a little more laid-back and feels more open around the neck. For instance, you can also choose to undo an extra button. Others find it more appropriate to wear a sweater with a crew neck. A crew neck often sits a bit higher, keeping the collar neatly in place, with only the top button left undone. This creates a more understated look. Both neckline options work well when paired with a shirt.
When should you choose a patterned shirt and when a plain one?
This is very personal. Consider the occasion and the industry you work in. A pullover can tone down a bold, statement print, because the patterned shirt will only be visible at the collar and cuffs. If the occasion is formal, we recommend a micro pattern or no pattern at all. A busy print can distract from the moment and may be inappropriate. When the occasion is informal and/or there are no specific requirements, it’s a great time to choose patterns where shapes and colours really stand out.
How to style a shirt with a zip-neck sweater?
When wearing a zip-neck sweater, it’s good to know that the collar is often designed to stand upright. You’ll also often see subtle details added to give the zip sweater a sporty twist. Think of a colour nuance around the zip, or a zip in a contrasting colour so it really stands out. So, try this as a shirt-and-sweater combination too.
Which sweater material works best over a shirt?
Sweaters come in lambswool, merino wool and cotton. We recommend trying them all on at least once. That way, you’ll really feel the difference and can decide what suits you best. Below is a quick overview:
- Lambswool: Comes from the first shearing of young lambs. If you have sensitive skin, this type of wool can feel itchy when worn directly on the skin. You may find you simply can’t tolerate it. Lambswool is also very warm.
- Merino: Comes from the merino sheep and is known for its high-quality wool. It feels lightweight, while regulating temperature better. This option often has a slimmer fit and delivers a modern look.
- Cotton: More hard-wearing, easier to wash and gentle on the skin. It’s common for a sweater to feel a bit roomier after you’ve worn it for a while compared to the first time. Once washed, it will fit closer to the body again.
What’s the ultimate layering combination?
Once the colours are well coordinated and the fit suits the person wearing it, you’ve got the ultimate layering combination. Our tip: look for the right material—cotton or merino wool—and most importantly, make sure you feel good in it. Then check the size and be critical: will you always wear a shirt underneath? If so, try this sweater on with a shirt underneath. It might be better to go one size up from your usual.
How do you style layering further?
You could opt for a well-matched cardigan. We also offer vests in a range of materials and with different collar styles. A great wardrobe addition, as a cardigan is much easier to put on and take off. Another good look is a fine-knit pullover layered over a shirt, finished with a blazer. Just make sure not to wear a chunky knit or an overly thick jumper underneath.
