Clothes vs. Outfits: Chunky Knits Conundrum

Base: Cable Cambridge Sweater ($98 + 25%-off) and AG Stilt Cigarette Jeans ($164)

Upper Left: J.Crew Boy Shirt ($78) // Zara Checkered Scarf ($30) // AEO Pull-On Boot ($80) // Mango Saffiano-Effect Tote ($60)

Middle: Maison Scotch Boucle Gilet ($235) // Nicole Miller Stretch Bracelet ($30) // Riley Hobo Bag ($278) // Stitch Detail Gloves ($69) // Madison Harding Steven Boot ($298)

Lower Left: J.Crew Schoolboy Blazer ($198) // Horsebit Ring ($14) // Carnelian Cushion Cut Ring ($77) // Furla Arianna Shopper ($298) // Stuart Weitzman Platswoon Pump ($325)

A sweater and jeans, a classic combination.  But even with a sweater as cozy and chic as this one from J.Crew, the pairing is not an outfit.  So let’s jazz it up a bit, shall we?

Upper Left. This preppy look was inspired by this photo found on Pinterest.  You can wear the button-up with the collar down or the collar up, peeking out of the sweater.  Add the stylish plaid scarf, a pair of riding boots, and a coordinating red bag, and the outfit is complete.

If you want to take it even further, add this navy, quilted jacket or this duffle coat.  I’d also add this silver dot ring from John Hardy.

Middle. For a look that’s more glam than American sportswear, I chose a tweed, long vest from Maison Scotch.  If you are looking for a less expensive vest, try this Sonya waistcoat from Need Supply.

I added a sleek leather glove, a pair of burgundy booties and a bracelet in a similar collar.  Wear the bracelet over the glove, it’s stretchy, so it should fit.  Want a cheaper pair of colored ankle boots?  Try this burgundy suede pair from Sam Edelman or these fashion-forward Tripplee heels from Steve Madden.

Lower Left.  This look mixes a tailored blazer with simple accents to create a great look for Sunday brunch or a casual dinner.  The pine green in the blazer looks lovely with the tortoise-shell pumps.  Looking for a pair of heels for less?  Try the Corso Como Del heels.

The Furla tote is a great casual/business casual bag.  If you’re looking for something similar, try this $45 vegan leather tote from Gal.  To complete the look, I added an inexpensive horsebit ring and a Carnelian ring for a bit of color.

Some carefully chosen layers can spruce up a simple sweater and jeans.  So try adding some pieces to your basic attire this season.