Especially for women over 50, looking modern is a big part of the style equation. When we make current choices in the way we put ourselves together, we signal that we’re still engaged, evolving, growing and showing up. That actually makes us look younger and more vibrant. I’m all for that. What about you? Today I’m sharing a current concept that most of us classic ladies should grasp with no problem. We’re talking about the modern winter sweater set.
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Most of us seasoned ladies know that the traditional sweater set typically includes a sweater shell topped by a cardigan sweater in the same color and fabrication. The reason this classic pairing packs such a punch is because anytime you double up the color up top in a base layer and a topper you create a powerful statement.
While the classic duo does have a degree of timelessness, it’s not especially current. And although traditional button-front cardigans are having a moment, it’s not modern to wear them unbuttoned over a shell. Instead, let me introduce you to a more modern option. And today I’ve created three outfits wearing it specifically for winter. This is the modern winter sweater set.
The Modern Winter Sweater Set
Like the shell and button-front cardigan duo, this modern winter sweater set is created with a base layer and a top layer in the same color…or close enough. In fact, maybe “close enough” is part of the charm that makes it look more interesting and of the moment.
You can create this modern sweater set with any type of sweater, but I’ve opted for that traditional button-front style worn in the most current way…buttoned up as a pullover. You could wear an unseen camisole underneath or have a t-shirt peaking out at the collar. But the key is to let that button-front cardigan serve as your top.
My inky burgundy cashmere cardigan sweater runs true to size; I’m wearing my usual medium for a modern slim fit.
I’m wearing the cardigan sweater over frosty olive cropped length, slim-wide corduroy pants. I love the combination of textures and jewel tones in this simple everyday outfit. The corduroy pants also run true to size; I’m wearing my usual Classic Fit size 30. They also come in petite and tall sizes, but sizes are selling out in this particular color.
I’ve completed the elevated casual outfit with cognac accessories. My Margaux boots are stunners. They come in other colors and some suede options, too. And they originally come in sizes US women’s 3.5 to 14 (wow!) and in narrow, medium and wide widths. However, as you might expect, some sizes are sold out.
So wait. What happened to the sweater set, you may ask. The modern winter sweater set is comprised of a pullover or cardigan sweater worn under a topper, specifically a coat, in the same or similar color. This combination is a contemporary way to achieve that same punch you used to get with the traditional shell and cardigan set.
In all three outfits I’m wearing that inky burgundy cashmere cardigan sweater with a beautiful Italian double face wool and cashmere blend topcoat in Wilshire red. This unlined coat has a lovely drape and fits true to size; I’m wearing a Classic 10, and it does come in petite and tall sizes as well as additional colors.
I created another modern winter sweater set outfit with the same sweater and coat, but this time I wore my black midnight wash full length slim wide jeans.
Honestly, this is not rocket science. And I didn’t change my outfits up that much for this post. But that’s actually on purpose. I wanted you to see that this modern winter sweater set is so easy to wear with many things in your closet. And simply wearing the combination over different styles of pants (or skirts) will give you big results.
My jeans are very comfortable and fit true to size; I’m wearing a Classic 30, and they come in petite and tall sizes. In fact, they may be a little roomy, but I rather like them like that. It’s more modern to wear your jeans a little roomy rather than skin tight these days. Yeah, I know. Modern, modern, modern. But really, making those contemporary choices is such an effortless way to look more stylish and youthful over 50. So they’re worth noting!
Don’t you just love how the inky burgundy cardigan sweater looks under the Wilshire red topcoat? PRO TIP: Whenever I purchase a coat or jacket I immediately purchase at least one, but usually several tops or sweaters in that same or very similar color to wear with it. And if I don’t do that, I always regret it.
For our final rendition of the modern winter sweater set took it all the way and created a tonal outfit. My Stella velvet pants are in that same inky burgundy as the sweater, but even they don’t look identical. That’s quite okay. The slight differences in the shade of these three garments just makes the tonal look more interesting and rich.
And any time you create a tonal outfit it’s smart to incorporate contrasting textures, too, layering in depth and visual interest.
My velvet pants run true to size; I’m wearing the Classic 10. They’re also available in other colors and petite and tall sizes. I completed the party ready outfit with a black satin clutch and gold slingback heels.
So what do you think? Maybe you already wear the modern winter sweater set. If you do, how do you create the magic? If you haven’t tried this contemporary pairing yet, can you think of ways that you could do it with the things already in your closet? And do you think you might look for matching sweaters to wear with any of the coats in your closet? I’d love to hear from you today.
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Blessed for My Day
Countless times each day we have the opportunity to make wise choices that will honor the Lord and benefit His Kingdom or foolish decisions that will hurt us and…and Him. Sometimes the good choices begin to feel burdensome. We may begin to feel like we’re constantly having to choose the high road while others are just carelessly drifting through their day…with no visible consequences.
But we can trust that those wise decisions do indeed pay off. The Bible teaches that we always reap what we sow…more than we sow…sometimes much later. Consequences follow our actions. And the Lord is faithful to bless us when we choose to live in obedience to Him and His Word. Persevere, dear friend. Your wise choices will pay off.
Blessed is the man who walks not in the counsel of the wicked, nor stands in the way of sinners, nor sits in the seat of scoffers; but his delight is in the law of the Lord, and on his law he meditates day and night. ~ Psalm 1:1-2
This was a great post. I am already thinking of what I already own to make up an outfit that emulates this style. I was already on the hunt for a red cardigan, but now plan to make it sure it matches my red winter coat. Thanks!
Really like all these outfits and the color combinations. I have at least 2 coatigans but have not worn them in a while because I thought they would be outdated a little I was wrong they look nice and put together. The only thing is I am 5’3″ and you are tall and looks great on you. I will have to pull them out of my closet and give them a try again.
Years ago I wore a lot of sweater sets, and I love this ! The colors of the coat and sweater look so rich. I am definitely going to look in my closet to see what I can put together! Thank you.
My PRO TIP is a twist on yours…instead of buying outerwear and then purchasing several matching tops, I only buy outerwear that goes with matching tops that I already own. That’s just how I’ve been building my wardrobe over the last few years. I haven’t tried the cardigan as a top look yet. I always feel like the collar area looks “naked” somehow if there’s no turtleneck under or shirt collar poking out. I might try it out though and see if I like it. I’m the same about crewneck sweaters…I always have to have a dickey, shirt or turtleneck under.
Tonal dressing is very stylish. May I offer a suggestion? Take into consideration the undertones of a colour, especially the very intense ones. For example, a shade of red with more orange undertones may not work with a red with blue undertones. They would clash rather than complement. Pastels are less tricky, but I still keep that approach in mind. ❤️🇨🇦
Great post. Love the sweater and coat in similar color. Burgundy is a favorite winter color so I love all of your outfits. Thank you for sharing and giving me ideas to try to find from my closet.
You look STUNNING in that raspberry-burgundy color! Great outfits!
I have a cardigan very similar, even in color, I’ve had in my closet but haven’t worn it all the way buttoned up so this gives me idea for it. I originally bought it to wear open with a dress but that’s dated to me now. It’s like brand new. I never could get myself to give it away as I’ve only worn it once. I’ll try it this way. If a no then will get rid of it.
I think all these looks are just fabulous – the beautiful colors really make this approach even more outstanding and so special!