Dressing for the office can be a tricky business, especially when the dress code leans towards the business casual side. You ladies are always on the lookout for outfit combinations that are both comfortable and professional. One item that will give you that perfect balance is the cable knit sweater.
Cable knit sweaters are a classic must-have that every woman should have in her wardrobe. They’re versatile, cozy, and can help you transition from an office setting to a casual dinner date with ease. Now, you might be wondering, how exactly do I style a cable knit sweater for a business casual environment? Well, fear not. We’re here to guide you through it.
The Classic Business Casual Look with Sweaters
The concept of business casual can sometimes seem contradictory. But all it really means is dressing professionally without being overly formal. For this, the cable knit sweater is the perfect option.
The classic business casual look can be achieved by pairing your cable knit sweater with a pair of well-fitted jeans. Dark-wash or black jeans are a great option as they give off a more formal vibe than their lighter counterparts. Add a pair of heels or ankle boots to elevate your outfit. A statement necklace or a pair of stud earrings can provide the finishing touch.
When choosing your sweater, it’s important to consider the color as well. Neutral shades like black, gray, and beige work well for the office, but don’t be afraid to go for bolder colors if that suits your personal style.
Incorporating Shirts into Your Outfit
Another way to style a cable knit sweater is by layering it with a shirt. This is a great option for days when the office is a bit chillier than usual.
Start with a crisp white shirt and layer it with your sweater. The collar and cuffs of the shirt peeking out from the sweater will give your outfit an added level of sophistication. You can pair this combination with a pair of dress pants for a more formal look or with jeans for a more casual take.
A black shirt under a beige or cream cable knit sweater is also a great option. The contrast between the two colours adds a visually appealing element to your outfit.
Sweater and Skirt – A Stylish Combo
Who said office wear has to be boring? Get creative with your cable knit sweater and style it with a skirt for a chic and stylish look.
A midi skirt works well with a cable knit sweater. Tuck in your sweater into the skirt for a cleaner, more polished look. Add a pair of ankle boots or pumps and you’re all set for a fashionable day at the office.
A pencil skirt is another great option. It adds a level of formality to your outfit, making it perfect for those important business meetings. Pair your sweater and pencil skirt with heels for a more business-oriented look or with flats for a relaxed, casual vibe.
Adding a Cardigan for Extra Warmth
Cardigans are another versatile piece that can be incorporated into your office wear. They add an extra layer of warmth and can be easily removed if the office heating gets cranked up.
Pair your shirt and jeans or dress pants outfit with a cable knit cardigan. Choose a cardigan in a contrasting color to your shirt for a playful, yet professional look. Make sure to keep your cardigan open to show off your shirt underneath.
You can also pair your cardigan with a dress. A simple black dress under a beige or grey cardigan makes for an effortlessly chic outfit. Add a chunky necklace and a pair of heeled boots to complete your look.
Shop Wisely for Your Cable Knit Sweater
When shopping for your cable knit sweater, it’s important to choose one that fits well. A well-fitted sweater will make you look more polished and put together.
Consider the neck style as well. A V-neck or scoop neck sweater can be more flattering and can make layering with a shirt easier. A turtle neck sweater, on the other hand, can provide more warmth and gives off a more formal vibe.
When it comes to the fabric, choose one that feels comfortable against your skin. Wool and cashmere are great options as they are both warm and soft. However, they can be a bit pricier than other fabrics. Cotton and acrylic are more affordable options and are still comfortable to wear.
And remember ladies, the cable knit sweater is a timeless piece that will always be in style. So don’t be afraid to invest in a good quality one. It’s an investment that will pay off in the long run.
Dynamic Duo: Cable Knit with Dress Shirt
Give your outfit an extra boost by pairing your cable knit sweater with a dress shirt. This combination is ideal for the business casual dress code and adds a touch of sophistication to your look.
Kick off your outfit with a crisp and clean dress shirt. Opt for a crew neck sweater to layer over your dress shirt, creating a stylish contrast and a cozy feel. The collar peeking out from the sweater injects a hint of professionalism in your casual attire.
Feel free to experiment with different color combinations. For instance, a white dress shirt under a navy blue cable knit provides a classic, timeless look. Alternatively, you can play with prints and patterns on your dress shirt for a fun and unique spin on the usual business casual outfits.
Next, think about the fit of your sweater. While an oversized sweater can be comfortable for lounging at home, it may not send the right message in an office setting. A well-fitted sweater, on the other hand, makes you appear more polished and professional.
Lastly, consider the shirt’s collar. A buttoned shirt with a collar provides a neat and formal look, whereas an open collared shirt gives off a more relaxed vibe. Remember, you can always alter your outfit to suit the day’s agenda or your mood.
The Versatile Shawl Collar and Sport Coat Combo
Your cable knit sweater doesn’t always have to be the main show. You can also incorporate it into your outfit as an accent piece. The shawl collar and sport coat combination offer a great way to do this.
Start by wearing your cable knit as a base layer. Try a crew neck sweater for a more classic look, or a V-neck sweater if you’re after something a little more modern. Layer your sport coat over the cable knit, ensuring it’s a contrasting color to add some visual interest.
This combination is perfect for when the office is cooler, and you need an additional layer while still maintaining a business casual dress code. Plus, the sport coat can be easily removed if the office heating suddenly ramps up.
For a more polished look, button the sport coat, but leave the top button undone. This gives off a more relaxed vibe, suitable for a business casual environment.
Pair your shawl collar and sport coat with a pair of dress pants or dark jeans. Complete your outfit with a pair of dress shoes or ankle boots. And remember, comfort is key when it comes to choosing your office wear!
Conclusion
Navigating the business casual dress code need not be a tedious task. Incorporating a cable knit sweater into your office wear can be a game-changer, providing both comfort and style in one fell swoop.
Whether you’re pairing it with jeans for a classic look, layering it with a dress shirt for added sophistication, or donning it under a sport coat for an extra layer of warmth, this versatile piece is sure to become your go-to for all your business casual needs.
Don’t forget to consider factors like fit, fabric, and color when shopping for your cable knit. A well-fitted merino wool cable knit in a neutral color is a wise investment that will serve you well in the long run.
At the end of the day, your comfort matters the most. It’s important to feel good in what you’re wearing as it can boost your productivity and confidence at work. So, embrace the cable knit trend and redefine your business casual attire, making every day an opportunity to look and feel your best. Your wardrobe (and your colleagues) will thank you!