Written by Tanya Zhang

Dress shirts are fine on their own for the office, but what are you supposed to do when the weather is freezing or your office doesn’t know how to turn down the air conditioning? You can wear the best blazers or suits, but maybe it just isn’t your style or perhaps you don’t want to look too “over the top.” 

For these occasions, consider wearing a crew neck sweater over your dress shirt. They are convenient, versatile, and easy to wear on their own. While this might give you college professor or even dad vibes, with the right items this can be a stylish and comfortable look. We want to walk you through how to wear a sweater over a dress shirt so you could look good and feel good. 

In this guide, we'll go over all your questions in regards to how and when to wear collared shirt under sweater.

When to Wear Collared Shirts Under Sweater

Wearing collared shirt under sweater can be a stylish and versatile option for various occasions. Here are some situations when wearing a sweater over a dress shirt is appropriate:

1. Casual or Smart Casual Events: Layering a sweater over a dress shirt is perfect for casual or smart casual occasions. It adds an extra layer of style and warmth while maintaining a polished appearance. This combination works well for outings with friends, dinner parties, or casual gatherings.
   
   
2. Business Casual Settings: Many workplaces have a business casual dress code that allows for more relaxed attire. Wearing a sweater over a dress shirt in these settings can help you achieve a professional yet comfortable look. It's suitable for office environments, meetings, or business conferences that don't require formal attire.
   
   
3. Cool or Transitional Weather: Collared shirts under sweaters are ideal for cool or transitional weather when you need extra warmth. They provide insulation while allowing you to maintain a refined and put-together outfit.
   
   
4. Semi-Formal Events: Depending on the level of formality, wearing a collar shirt under sweaters can be appropriate for certain semi-formal events. For example, a more formal sweater style, such as a cardigan or a shawl collar sweater, can be paired with a dress shirt for an elevated look at a semi-formal dress code. Try pairing with one of these best black dress shirts.
   
   
5. Layering for Style: Layering a sweater over a dress shirt can be a fashion-forward choice to enhance your overall outfit. It adds texture, depth, and visual interest.

It's important to consider the specific occasion, dress code, and weather conditions when deciding whether to wear a collar shirt under sweater. Always aim to strike a balance between style, appropriateness, and comfort for the given situation.

How to Layer a Sweater Over a Dress Shirt

Layering a sweater over a dress shirt is a classic, polished look that can be dressed up or down. While it may seem like multiple layers could feel bulky, the right fit and styling make it effortless. Here’s how to get it right:

• Tuck or Untuck? If your dress shirt is significantly longer than your sweater, tuck in your shirt to avoid a sloppy look. A small peek at the bottom is fine, but too much fabric can make it seem like your sweater has shrunk.
• Choose the Right Fit: Your sweater should be snug but not tight—too big looks sloppy, and too small creates awkward bunching. Aim for a slim fit that allows movement while maintaining a clean silhouette.
• Match the Occasion: For a formal or business-professional look, add a tie and blazer over your sweater. In more relaxed settings, try different sweater styles like crewneck, V-neck, or even cardigans for a laid-back yet refined appearance.
• Pick Quality Materials: Sweaters made from cashmere, cotton blends, or merino wool hold their shape better and look more polished compared to looser-knit or synthetic options.
• Stick to Versatile Colors: Neutral shades like beige, gray, navy, or black pair well with most dress shirts, making it easy to mix and match for different occasions. A crisp white or light blue dress shirt is always a safe choice underneath.
  

 

How to Match a Collared Shirt with a Sweater

Pairing a collared dress shirt with a sweater creates a refined and versatile look, but the right combination of colors, patterns, and textures is key to making it stylish. Here’s how to match them effectively:

• Stick to Classic Color Combinations: Neutral sweaters like navy, gray, black, or beige pair well with white, light blue, or pastel dress shirts. If you want contrast, a dark sweater over a light-colored shirt is a safe bet.
• Balance Patterns and Solids: If your dress shirt has a pattern (stripes, checks, or plaids), opt for a solid-colored sweater to avoid clashing. Conversely, if your sweater has a subtle texture or pattern, keep the dress shirt simple.
• Consider the Neckline: V-neck sweaters work well with ties and allow more of the collar to show, making them great for business settings. Crewneck sweaters create a cleaner, more casual look by letting just a hint of the collar peek out.
• Match Fabric Textures: Lightweight cotton or oxford shirts layer well under merino wool or cashmere sweaters for a sleek look. Avoid pairing thick flannel shirts with heavy knit sweaters, as the bulk can look unkempt.
• Experiment with Layering Styles: For a relaxed yet polished appearance, let the shirt collar peek out neatly over the sweater’s neckline. If you’re going for a preppy look, let the shirt cuffs extend slightly past the sweater’s sleeves.

By mixing the right colors, fabrics, and styles, you can create a polished, put-together outfit for any occasion.

How to Prevent Inside Shirt From Bunching Up

Preventing a collar shirt from bunching up under a sweater can help you maintain a neat and polished appearance. Here are some tips to avoid collared shirt under sweater bunching:

1. Proper Fit: Ensure that both the collar shirt and the sweater fit well. A well-fitted collar shirt will have a collar that sits comfortably around your neck without being too tight or too loose. Likewise, the sweater should have an appropriate fit that isn't too tight or too baggy, as excessive fabric can contribute to bunching.
   
   
2. Choose Thinner Fabrics: Opt for collar shirts made from thinner and smoother fabrics, such as poplin or broadcloth for a white dress shirt. These materials are less likely to create excess bulk or bunch up when layered under a sweater. 
   
   
3. Smooth Out the Collar: Before putting on the sweater, make sure the collar of the shirt is properly smoothed out. Use your hands to flatten any wrinkles or folds in the collar area to ensure a clean and even appearance. We also have a guide on how to fold shirts to prevent wrinkles for traveling.
   
   
4. Use Collar Stays: Collar stays are small, removable inserts that can be placed inside the collar of a dress shirt to help maintain its shape and prevent it from bunching up. They provide structure and stability to the collar, keeping it in place under the sweater. Nimble Made has these great metal and engraved collar stays. Make sure your dress shirt has collar stay slots for you to insert them into. If not, all of Nimble Made dress shirts do.
   
   
   
   
   
   
5. Layer with a Sweater Vest or Cardigan Sweater: If you find that collar shirt bunching is a persistent issue, consider layering with a sweater vest or a cardigan sweater instead of a full sweater. These garments often have a more open front, allowing for better visibility and control over the collar shirt. More about your sweater options below.
   
   
6. Adjust Throughout the Day: Check your collar periodically throughout the day and readjust if necessary. Sometimes, the collar may shift or fold slightly due to movement, and a quick readjustment can help maintain a clean appearance.

By paying attention to fit, fabric choices, and making minor adjustments, you can prevent or minimize collar shirt bunching when wearing a sweater!

Types of Sweaters to Wear Over a Dress Shirt

There are various sweater options that you can wear over a dress shirt, depending on your personal style and the desired look. Here are some common sweater options:

1. V-Neck Sweater: V neck sweaters are a popular choice for layering over dress shirts. A v neck sweater can create a classic and polished look, allowing the collar and tie of the dress shirt to be more visible.

2. Crew Neck Sweater: Crew neck sweaters are another versatile option that works well with dress shirts. They have a rounded neckline and provide a more casual and relaxed look compared to V-neck sweaters.

3. Cardigan Sweater: A cardigan is a button-up sweater that can be worn over a dress shirt for a more sophisticated and preppy style. It can be fully buttoned up or left open, depending on the desired look.

A turtleneck sweater wouldn't work in this case but there are another sweaters like a vest sweater that could also work.

 

The Best Collar Shirts Under Sweaters

Now that you have a better idea of how to style this, you may be thinking about where to buy nice collar shirts. Whether it's a long sleeve or short sleeve dress shirt, we recommend checking out Nimble Made.

You typically want to find a breathable material that keeps its shape while adjusting to your movements. 100% cotton or cotton-blend dress shirts will keep you cool and comfortable. Other materials include flannel and chambray, which are more casual but can still be dressed up or down depending on the situation. 

Besides cotton dress shirts, you can look into a oxford dress shirt for a different texture. We chose one budget-friendly store and one high-quality store. Our first pick is for those who don’t want to put a dent in their wallet.

 

Nimble Made is our go-to when it comes to putting together your dress shirt outfit. The quality, value, and missions are all things to admire when you look into this store. We founded the company with the mission of creating clothing for slimmer men who did not fit the typical standard of clothing for the “average” guy. We all know that the fashion scene shows off very tall men, but that is not how most guys look.  

Pros:

• High-quality clothing
• Fashionable ties and accessories 
• Slim fit and tailored feel makes it a great choice for slimmer men

 

FAQs about wearing a sweater over a dress shirt

How to Put a Sweater Over a Dress Shirt?

To wear a sweater over a dress shirt properly:

• Choose the Right Fit: Your sweater should be slim enough to layer smoothly over the shirt without excessive bulk.
• Tuck in the Shirt (Optional): If you want a polished look, tuck your dress shirt into your pants. For a more relaxed style, you can leave it untucked, but ensure it’s not too long.
• Adjust the Collar: Let the collar of your dress shirt sit neatly inside or slightly above the sweater’s neckline, depending on the sweater’s style.
• Smooth Out Wrinkles: Avoid bunched-up fabric underneath by pulling the dress shirt down and adjusting the sleeves properly.

Can You Wear a Sweater Under a Dress Shirt?

Wearing a sweater under a dress shirt is uncommon and not recommended because it creates unnecessary bulk and may appear unkempt. Instead, opt for a thin thermal undershirt or a lightweight base layer under your dress shirt for added warmth.

A dress shirt is designed to be the outer layer in most cases, and layering a bulky sweater underneath can make the outfit look awkward and uncomfortable.

Is a Sweater Over a Dress Shirt Business Casual?

Yes, wearing a sweater over a dress shirt is a classic business casual look. To maintain a professional appearance, choose neutral or dark-colored sweaters made from fine knit materials like merino wool, cashmere, or cotton.

Crewneck and V-neck sweaters work best, with the latter pairing well with a tie. Avoid oversized fits or bold patterns that may make the outfit look too casual.

How to Layer a Collared Shirt Under a Sweater?

Start by selecting a slim-fit, fine-knit sweater that complements your dress shirt. Either tuck the shirt fully into your pants for a polished look or opt for a French tuck for a more relaxed style.

Keep the collar inside the sweater for a sleek appearance, or let it peek out neatly for a preppy touch—just avoid button-down collars unless the sweater has a wider neckline.

If you need additional warmth, you can layer a blazer over the sweater for a refined business casual outfit.