The Art of the Evening Sweater: 5 Silhouettes to Wear All Winter Long

While I love nothing more than burrowing into my most oversized, shapeless cashmere pullover during the colder months, I admit that it doesn’t feel like the most appropriate sartorial choice for a night out. When I want to feel sexy without spending the whole night shivering, I reach for the unsung hero of my winter wardrobe: the evening sweater.

This season, we’ve seen sexy knitwear in the form of cutout cable knits at Schiaparelli and see-through cardigans at Tom Ford—and the trend translates seamlessly off the runway, too. For the most wearable option, look for a knit with a single element that leans more sultry: a draped neckline that falls off the shoulder, a wrap silhouette that hugs the waist, or a deep plunge that shows off some décolletage. Ahead, see the evening sweater trends to shop for the colder days ahead.

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The Wrap Sweater

With its ballerina-inspired silhouette, a wrap sweater offers timeless appeal. Alaïa’s and & Other Stories’s takes on the style offer an adjustable wrap design, while Naked Cashmere’s rendition adds a gold-toned pin closure for an elevated touch.

The Off-the-Shoulder Sweater

There’s something undeniably sensual about a top that exposes your collarbone, especially in the form of plush cashmere and merino wool knitwear. Whether you prefer Staud’s slouchy one-shoulder pick or Simkhai’s halter straps, these styles have a come-hither effect without trying too hard.

The U-Neck Sweater

A daring neckline is a surefire way to heat up your cold-weather ensembles, and we saw down-to-there sweaters dominate the runways at Zimmermann and Prada. From Reformation’s chunky pullover to Same’s barrel silhouette, these knits pair nicely with your laciest bra.

The Open-Back Sweater

Backless sweaters are an unexpected pick for date nights, especially when contrasted with a higher neckline. Standout picks from Lisa Yang, Aritzia, and Tove appear deceptively demure from the front for maximum impact.

The Sleeveless Sweater

For a less bundled-up option, reach for a sleeveless sweater. A halterneck silhouette offers an unexpected take on fall’s most ubiquitous layer while still fitting comfortably beneath a leather jacket, and Ossou’s slinky Halo Top is a perfect match for low-rise denim and a faux fur coat.

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