Sports Couture: The Fashion Sweatshirt

When we think fashion at Suite 203, a sweatshirt rarely comes to mind. Typically, sweatshirts conjure up images of frumpy ladies in mom jeans, gym rats and our kids’ wardrobe staples. But not anymore! The fashion sweatshirt was spotted strutting down the runways of Karen Walker, Rebecca Minkoff, Milly, and, of course, Kenzo to name a few.

But before you dig up your old Beaver Canoe garb, it must be said, that the new “fashion” sweatshirts are cheeky, chic and have price tags to match. From mixed materials (leather, lace, knits…), embellishments (studs, tassels, and appliqués…), and animal prints galore (Mee-oow!) these are not your basic fleece pullovers.

Where would you wear such a fancy sweatshirt? This season, it replaces a blouse in most circumstances. We are taking our styling cues from Ostwald Helgason and Philip Lim who have incorporated the fancy sweatshirt into their latest fall collections. They show us below how to rock a fashion sweatshirt in a more casual and dressed up way. The first rule to remember when incorporating a fashion sweatshirt into your office look is to keep it appropriate. A lot of these sweatshirts tend to have some offensive graphics on them so it is important to keep it clean, simple and chic at work. The second is knowing how to pair your sweatshirt with the right bottom. In both collections, the sweatshirts are coupled with bold skirts, dress pants and shorts to give the outfit the right amount of flare.

You can also pair your fancy sweatshirt with jeans and heels for a fun take that is sure to get you noticed. The key to this look lies in the accessories.The combination of the two offers all the comfort of loungewear with all the style and flare that studs, leather details and shiny embellishments bring out in a well-polished look for the day.

The concept of the sweatshirt has turned a new leaf. Women no longer have to choose between being comfortable and fashionable. Here’s to the fashion sweatshirt!