Style Buzz: How to Elevate a Sweatshirt + April Style Events
- Eugene Stylist
- Apr 3
- 4 min read
Ideas to Inspire Your Head-to-Toe Style
QUOTE OF THE WEEK
"Ever since I told people I've hired a stylist, they're all saying, 'You'll change! We won't recognize you!'"
I was chatting with a client about her upcoming appointment and was really looking forward to working with her, even more after she continued her thought: "Well, maybe I want that. Maybe that's part of my rut. But I'm just changing one thing on the outside, why do they fear the inside will be unrecognizable?" I loved that she understood that she needed a change and that life is not a RomCom: just because you get a new wardrobe, what makes you you doesn't suddenly disappear. Style just brings out a hidden part of you or helps you shed a past version of yourself. Which sounds like a happily ever after!
xxx rachel
HOW TO ELEVATE A SWEATSHIRT
I went to college at UC Santa Barbara, best known for its beaches and beach-cruiser bicycles, and my standard uniform was shorts and a UCSB sweatshirt. It was appropriate for the climate and culture down there, but once you get out of college, it's really time to retire sweatshirts from your daily rotation.
I mean, every once in a while is fine, but not as a default for whatever reason (top of the pile, time crunch, laziness...) and definitely not if you're attending an event that might appreciate a little more effort. (*cough* The Symphony cough)
Ever since the pandemic, we've all pivoted toward comfort over polish. But what if there were a happy middle ground? Is it possible for a sweatshirt to look like anything other than sleepwear or gardening grubbies? Happily, yes! But it's conditional.
You can elevate a sweatshirt as long as you obey these rules, my darlings:
1. No logos or graphics. Nothing that shows support for a team, a business other than one you own or work for, or your cat.
2. No stains or tears, it must be in good condition and not look like a used rag.
3. It must fit properly. Oversized is not your friend here.
Start with fit and fabric because that does most of the heavy lifting. A slightly structured sweatshirt - clean neckline, intentional drape, not overly bulky - immediately feels more considered. Heavier cotton, brushed fleece, or even a subtle knit texture will always look more elevated than anything thin and clingy. And try a color other than grey!
Then, give it something sharper to play against. A sweatshirt with tailored trousers or a clean, straight-leg jean creates that lovely tension between relaxed and polished. Even better with a front crease or a darker wash and suddenly the sweatshirt looks like a choice, not a default.
Layering is where it becomes interesting. Try it over a crisp button-down so the collar and cuffs peek out, or under a structured coat. A trench, wool coat, or even a blazer will pull it together without trying too hard.
Footwear matters so swap tennies for loafers, ankle boots, or a sleek leather sneaker. It shifts the entire tone in seconds. Accessories are your finishing touch, not an afterthought. A proper bag (structured leather rather than a tote that’s seen better days), statement jewelry, or even just a tidy hairstyle can make the whole look feel intentional.
And finally, keep it clean and pressed. A slightly rumpled sweatshirt reads as lounge. A neat one reads as style. It’s less about dressing it up, and more about giving it a bit of backbone.
Three ways I wore a tan sweatshirt from Loft while traveling, casual but polished enough to not look like a tourist. I love throwing it over my shoulders when it's too warm rather than tying it around my waist. Instead of knotting the sleeves, I match the ends together then fold them up. Nice and tidy. |
ANATOMY OF AN OUTFIT
This is a peek into my favorite outfit of the week where I break it down for you: why I've put it together and why it works, what elements could be swapped out, things to consider, etc.
This week's favorite outfit - no surprise - included a sweatshirt! I found this one at Gilt + Gossamer last Fall and it's been a lovely addition to my wardrobe. It's comfy (obviously!), perfect to travel in and works well with a capsule wardrobe as the color plays well with a lot of others. I love the 1/4 zip funnel neck, which lets me get a V-neck if I want or zip it all the way up for warmth. Plus the white detail at the zipper gives it a little bit of visual interest. For this outfit, I paired it with a cream and black patterned blouse that has a softer collar than the white button front in the pics above. The black jeans and high black boots let the burgundy really hold center stage against a fairly neutral palette but give a seriousness to the casualness of the sweatshirt, elevating it to a piece I can wear outside of the house. I finished it off with some pearl earrings and double strand necklace. Sporty & sorted!
Blouse: Marks & Spencer
Sweatshirt: Perfect White Tee
Jeans: St John's Bay
Boots: Pikolinos
SAVE THE DATES!
Two fun events in April for you to pop on your calendar:
I'm presenting at the Downtown Athletic Club on "Dressed for Life: Style Outside the Gym" (aka Life beyond Lycra) on Tuesday, April 14 from 5:30-6:30pm. Tickets are free for members, $15 for guests. Click here for more info.
The annual Sip & Seams pop-up consignment shop is happening for two weekends again! There's a ticketed VIP Pre-Sale on April 9, and the free public sale is April 10-12 & 17-19. I'll be there off an on to help style, but if you're looking for some amazing deals on clothes, shoes, accessories, bags or just about anything else home related, come by!
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