Simple Yet Stylish: Outfit Ideas for Sweater and Jeans
Well, as they say in show biz, “that’s a wrap” on 2024. I took a bit more time off than I’d planned, but it was nice to relax and be able to visit with my sister, and some other family and friends. Tonight I’m looking forward to a quiet New Year’s Eve with a couple more episodes of my latest Scandinavian police/murder mystery series. This time of year, I’m always in a mood to simplify, including my outfits, and sweaters and jeans combos will be in heavy rotation.
Earlier this year, I wrote about re-defining wardrobe “basics,” moving away from generic styles, and leaning more into more interesting pieces that expressed more of my individual style and personality. I’m still wary of pieces or outfits that feel too contrived or forced, so look for ways to add some visual zing without pattern or superfluous details. Ease and comfort are still top priorities!
Zhuzhing up my default setting…
This outfit follows the simple sweater-jeans-and-sneakers formula that’s my default setting during the cooler months. But it doesn’t feel generic or basic. The color and texture of the sweater, and leopard print sneakers liven things up and add a bit of playfulness.
My sizes: Sweater – Small, Tee – Petite S, Jeans – 28
The sweater color is listed as “Turmeric,” and it’s a good one for Springs and Autumns on the warmer end of their respective palettes. It’s also available in Black. Here’s one from Everlane in a similar color. For more sweaters with interesting texture (not bulk), check out this one from Madewell, or this mockneck from Lands’ End. This ribbed “cotton fluff” sweater from Eileen Fisher has a slightly scooped neck that hits just below the collarbone.
(Yes, I’m wearing socks for warmth! 😉)
I fell hard for these leopard print sneakers the moment I saw them on the shelf. They’re from Paul Green, so I knew they’d be comfortable and supportive. I love the elasticized laces for slip-on ease! Yes, they’re spendy; here are a few similar styles that ring up at more budget-friendly prices:
Dolce Vita | Cole Haan | Spring Step | Vince | Vionic | Rockport Works
Basic-not-boring sweater, jeans, and sneakers outfits
After the rush and jangle of the holidays, there’s something so appealing about simplifying and getting back to basics. But wardrobe basics don’t have to be generic. Color, texture and details can all add interest to simple outfits without sacrificing comfort or functionality. Here are a couple of ideas for simple sweater, jeans, and sneakers outfits that won’t fade into the background.
Lipstick color shown is “Moabi.”
Here’s one for you Summers. Soft blues and off-white get a boost from texture. The pointelle sweater is available in four colors, sizes XXS-XXL.
Autumns, here’s one for you. (Springs, you can try this look with the Irish Chocolate or Antique white jacket…) This “confetti” sweater is a cotton blend, available in sizes XXS-XXL. I’ve always loved these confetti/Donegal patterns, and have been hoping to add one this season. Here are a few more that are on my radar:
Lands’ End (in Misses & Plus sizes | Desigual | Faherty (v-neck) | Tibi | Loft
It’s hard to beat a sweater and jeans outfit combo for a casual but put-together look. Adding color, texture, and/or an interesting detail will dial up the chic without fuss or formality. If your wardrobe essentials could use a refresh or upgrade, be sure you’ve subscribed to my newsletter for updates; I’ll be focusing on basics and capsule wardrobes in the coming weeks!
And I wish you and your loved ones a healthy and Happy New Year! 🎉
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Wishing you a Happy 2025 – good health, time for friends and family, travel, continued business development… whatever you wish for. I have enjoyed your posts for a few years now, so thank you for your content. Love the Leopard sneakers. I’ve been on a Converse platform sole sneaker ‘kick’ – they are funky and comfy, come in so many colors, reasonably priced (especially with sales) and I feel happy in them!
Hi Brenda, thank you so much! I think the Converse platforms are so cute.
Hi Susan,
A Happy, quiet and cozy New Year to you ! We have a trip to the Netherlands in Spring and due to some shoulder issues will be checking my carry on bag as I don’t wish to lift it over my head. I use a backpack as my under seat item. For the above mentioned reason, wondering if you know a bag that I could take that WILL fit under my seat that I wouldn’t have to schlepp around airport etc on my shoulder (preferably with wheels ?). Any ideas ?
Hi Nancy, thanks so much! You might consider a wheeled cabin bag like this one: https://bit.ly/4fH7Mc7 which has an ingenious mechanism on the back to secure to a larger wheeled bag.
Hi Nancy. I have seen numerous YouTube videos with underseat backpacks. Try googling for them. And happy travels!
I see that mystery is set in Malmo. That’s where the “Bonus Family” ex-husband “Martin” of “Lisa” is supposed to move with his new girlfriend.
After years of coveting sequins but not being comfortable with being so obvious (sequins stand out), I bought a black sequined bomber jacket this year which gets compliments every time I wear it. I am 84 and decided, to quote Hillel (I believe), “if not now, when?” If I don’t start to wear what I enjoy now, when will I? So Happy New Year and here is to wearing what one loves and being who one is.
Good for you, Lee, and I agree, “if not now, when?”
Really great sweater choices Susan! Thank you! I’m curious what size you took in the Frank & Eileen Mini Belfast jacket. I’m definitely into sweaters and jeans right now and wearing my Paul Green lug sole boots from 2-3 years ago. I love them. I loved that puffy messenger bag (Vee?) at Nordstroms but balked at the price! Have a wonderful evening and a healthy and joyous New Year.
Hi Sally, thanks! I take an XS in the jacket.
Love the looks you share! I have become a devotee of Paul Green sneakers (esp the Hadley model); despite their cost, which makes me gulp, they are the most comfortable shoe I’ve ever owned. If I didn’t already own two pair of leopard shoes (Birdies, M Gemi) I might spring for the Paul Greens you show here!
As for the jeans you’re wearing, I love them on you but just can’t get onboard with the raw edge look on me.
I’m waiting for this trend to pass…
Meanwhile, happy New Year and thanks for the work you do. Your blog brightens my day and enlightens my outlook on fashion and travel.
Thanks so much, Elizabeth! Aren’t Paul Greens just the best?
I love sweaters, but the drop shoulder trend is killing me. So many manufacturers are producing this type of garment, rather than set in sleeves. I’m guessing it’s cheaper to create garments with drop shoulders. But that silhouette does me no favors. Happy New Year, Susan!
Hi Carolyn, thanks, and yes, I’ll be glad for more options without dropped shoulders. I am beginning to see more raglan sleeve styles, which have a less boxy look.
Susan, I LOVE raglan sleeves. I have strong shoulders. Most women with broad shoulders shy away from raglan. Not me! I consider my shoulders one of my best assets, and that style emphasizes them. 🙂
Happy New Year Susan! Wishing you great health and happiness in 2025!
Thanks, Francesca! Wishing you the same!
Jeans and a sweater is my go-to outfit too, but I am a bit ashamed showing nothing but that on my blog. I feel it is getting boring no matter how I am zhuzhing it up LOL. So I throw in a skirt or a dress now and then, which is about the hardest thing for me to style.
Greetje
Your blog is a gem that I’ve appreciated for many years, so the beginning of a new one is a good time to say thanks – for the style, color, point of view, wisdom, and encouragement. It’s been a pleasure and positive example to watch you model learning and growing unapologetically. And of course, look great doing it. I look forward to more of the journey.
Thanks so much, Wendyloch! Happy New Year to you!