As a mother of two working in NYC, here are the sweater styles I choose to look stylish at the office and beyond…
Tessa Faye O'Connell is a contributor recognized for her work with various fashion brands, focusing on media and public relations, and currently serves as the global PR director at Coach. As a mother of two, she strives to enhance her presence in the fashion industry through styling, all while managing to leave the house on time. With winter upon us, dressing for work in the city presents a fresh challenge: balancing warmth with a polished appearance. Fortunately, I have a collection of sweaters. Over the years, I've built quite an assortment, and as I've made it a point to curate a wardrobe filled with pieces I love and that can be easily mixed and matched, I've started to favor certain styles.
Each fall, as I anticipate the upcoming months, I assess my wardrobe, discard items that no longer suit me, and compile a list of what I need to ensure I always have versatile options. The beauty of sweaters lies in their variety — there are styles to match any mood, whether polished, relaxed, elevated, neutral, or adorned with prints, making winter dressing enjoyable. Paired with jeans, trousers, skirts, or casual silk pants, there's something for everyone.
Currently, here are my favorite picks, but as the snow continues to fall, there may be new items I'll want to incorporate.
The Cotton Sweater
A cotton sweater is lighter than wool or cashmere yet incredibly comfortable to layer over a T-shirt for the day ahead. My current favorite is Honest Cotton's white pullover, but I appreciate the range of neutral-toned cotton sweaters that can serve as everyday staples.
Travel Sweater by Honest Cotton
Janet Sweater by perfectwhitetee
2025 Rollneck Sweater by J.Crew
Solid Marina Sweater by La Ligne
Cotton Fisherman Sweater by Jenni Kayne
The Cardigan
I was hesitant about cardigans for a long time until I discovered how to wear them as tops. Unlike other sweaters that require layering, certain cardigans can offer a sophisticated look while keeping you warm at the office.
Classic Crew Wool Cardigan by almina concept
Cardigan by American Vintage
The V-Neck Sweater
I had sworn off V-necks until I figured out that all I needed was to layer a T-shirt underneath. It's the perfect piece for feeling cozy or elevated with the right trousers. I’ve lost count of how many times I've grabbed this Jenni Kayne sweater for a pulled-together look.
Flynn Cashmere Sweater by Jenni Kayne
Jesse V Neck Pullover by Leset
Soft Knit V-Neck Sweater by ZARA
Super Luxe Cashmere V-Neck Sweater by Naadam
The Cashmere V-Neck by Everlane
The Fair Isle Sweater
My favorite persona is the one where I imagine being snowed in at a cabin, making the incorporation of Fair Isle sweaters into my daily wardrobe a definite win. They are both cozy and chic.
The Wells Fair Isle Sweater by joe's jeans
The Nordic Sweater by The Great
Fair Isle Lace-Up Sweater by Polo Ralph Lauren
Ella Fairisle Merino Sweater by A.L.C.
Fairisle Oversized Crewneck in Dark Natural Multi by &Daughter
The Brown Sweater
A textured brown sweater is always a reliable choice.
Askew Pullover by lauren manoogian
Mohair Super Soft Hairy Knit Sweater by & Other Stories
Marled Trail Seastack Wool Tweed Crewneck by Buck Mason
Cashmere Crew-Neck Sweater by COS
Ribbed Cotton-Blend Sweater by Madewell
The Striped Sweater
When I aim to make a statement without going overboard, I opt for stripes. Whether cropped or button-down, they add that little something extra to complete an outfit.
Cooper Cardigan by Jenni Kayne
Cashmere Boyfriend Sweater by Reformation
Mini Marin Sweater by La Ligne
Taylor Striped Cardigan in Cotton Cashmere by alex mill
The Plaid Sweater
What could be better than a plaid shirt? A plaid cashmere shirt. Need I say more?
Plaid Work Shirt by guest in residence
Checked Plaid Cashmere Polo Cardigan by Vince
Cashmere Luxe Button Down Shacket in Dark Umber Combo by White & Warren
Plaid Big Shirt by The Elder Statesman
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As a mother of two working in NYC, here are the sweater styles I choose to look stylish at the office and beyond…
Adaptable and contemporary selections.
