Jul 16, 2014 11:57
by Natasha Saroca

We’re pretty much smack bang in the middle of the season, which means chances are you’re probably getting sick of wearing the same old outfits that have been on regular rotation since we welcomed winter with not-so-open arms. Are we right, or are we right?

So, what’s the solution to your mid-winter wardrobe funk? Well, if you’re ready to ditch your standard uniform of a warm winter dress or top-and-skinny-jeans combo (both paired with an oversized coat and leather boots, of course), in favour of a new look, we suggest you try teaming your fave skirts and sweaters together.

If you’ve been rocking this look for a while now, props to you – you’re onto a winner here! And if you haven’t? Then it’s time to try this enduring trend; after all, skirt-and-sweater combos are fresh, cool and chic, plus you can continue wearing the transseasonal look once winter is long over – simply swap your cosy, woolly sweater for a lighter knit as the temperature warms up.

From sophisticated outfits for the office to edgy ensembles for the weekend and nights out on the town, here are seven skirt-and-sweater pairings – yes, a whole week’s worth! – we give you permission to steal...or, at the very least, we hope they inspire you to try the look before the season is out!

1. Pretty warm

Chunky, oversized knits work a treat with figure-hugging pencil skirts. Opt for a longer hemline – either just above the knee or a midi length – for a ladylike look.

Get the look:

H&M Cropped Jumper, $59.95; Ted Baker Amarant Skirt, $239 (1300 786 896); Mimco Talitha Sandal, $249; Rachael Ruddick Soho Cross Body Bag in Dust Pink, $450; Marc by Marc Jacobs Baker, Watch in Silver/Hazy Rose, $193.43 from Shopbop; Mimco Jewel Stud, $79.95.

2. Edgy attitude

Pleated skirts tend to be associated with classic, preppy or ladylike styles, but this too-cool-for-school faux leather number oozes attitude. The bright green sweater adds a fun, playful touch, while the silver statement necklace cuts through the edgy palette and lends a hint of grown-up sophistication.

Get the look:

H&M Jumper in a Textured Knit, $69.95; H&M Pleated Skirt, $29.95; New Look Danger Black Chunky Boots from ASOS, $54.88; Country Road Naomi Bucket Bag, $279; Amber Sceats Oracle Necklace, $399; Mimco Large Round Glimmer Watch in Jet, $249.

3. Statement print

If you want a patterned skirt or sweater to be the hero of your outfit, pair it with a top or bottom that’s simple in colour and design, like this oversized monochrome knit. Opt for pieces in clashing prints if you desire a look that’s loud and will make a lasting impression.

Get the look:

Country Road Ovoid Knit, $129; Ginger & Smart Precious Venom Skirt, $399; Spurr Cassidy Platform Heels in Orchid, $49.95; Oroton Baux Flapover Bag in Rose, USD$470; Mimco Jewel Stud in Turquoise, $79.95.

4. Bright spark

Want to team a skirt and sweater in bright, contrasting shades together? Choose accessories that will tie the look together. Here, a candy-coloured necklace picks up the tones of the skirt and sweater, while the neutral heels and handbag balance the lively palette.

Get the look:

Bardot Honeycomb Sweater, $79.95; Warehouse Pastel Animal Print Skirt, $75; Mimco Red Carpet Pump, $199; Topshop Mini Tara Holdall, £38.00; BaubleBar Neon Zenon Bib, USD$46; Amber Sceats Petite Bow Bangle, $189.

5. Power dressing

Soften a sculptural skirt with a sweater that features feminine detailing. Layer with a mix of modern and whimsical accessories to complete the look.

Get the look:

Markus Lupfer Crystal-Embellished Merino Wool Sweater from NET-A-PORTER, $357.29; by johnny Tricolour Sculpt Skirt, $250; Diavolina Ava Heels from Wanted, $159.95; Quay Eyewear Frankie Sunglasses, $45; Swarovski Halley Ring Set, $305; Revlon Matt Lipstick in Really Red from Myer, $21.95.

6. Think pink

Have a flirty pink skirt but don’t want your outfit to look too pretty? Pair it with a warm, loose-fitting knit in a heavier, moody tone (like this charcoal grey geometric-print sweater) and sleek, masculine-style accessories.

Get the look:

Chic Nova Geometric Patterns Contrast Color Pullover, $27.18; by johnny Future Flair Midi Skirt, $180; Country Road Nora Derby Shoes in Dove Grey, $149; Asya Malbershtein Little Beige Leather Backpack from Boticca, $316; Forever New Evette Mirror Watch, $29.99.

7. Night life

Want to wear a skirt-and-sweater combo out on the town? You can’t go wrong with an ensemble that features these three things: black, gold and leopard print.

Get the look:

Chic Nova Leopard Long-Sleeve Round Collar Sweater, $43.04; SHEIKE Hearts Desire Skirt, $99.95; The Mode Collective Ankle Strap Bootie in Black Croc/Black Leather, $299; Olga Berg Glitter Box Style Clutch, $79.95; BaubleBar Cosmic Dust Galactic Drops, USD$40; push BY PUSHMATAaHA Shard Ring from Shopbop, $276.33.