The Sweater Wrapped Around the Shoulders Trick Is a Classic — And One Our Editors Wear Often

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Here at T&C, there are certain preppy style tricks that we employ more than others. Case in point: the oh so practical knit thrown around the shoulders. Jackie O, Slim Aarons, or Babe Paley—they all set the standard and the inspiration. Sure, a good knit draped around the shoulder adds texture and almost acts like an accessory, but it also has a functional purpose too... Whether the summer air conditioning is on full blast in the office or the undeniable chill in the air come Labor Day Weekend.

And thus we say, cold shoulder no more! A sweater tied around the shoulders is the perfect answer to shoulder season, with it's lower temps, but still pleasant climate. Pro-tip, using colors artfully can help keep an outfit neither too wintery, nor too summery, as can the heft of the knit. Given that we at T&C pretty much all employ this trick of the trade, from editors and designers alike, we all have our favorite pieces for the job.

Here, our editors have rounded up our essential pieces that will keep you cozy wrapped around your shoulder as we head into fall. Cold shoulders no more!

Cable-Knit Wool-Cashmere Sweater

“I love when a sweater is chunky enough to throw over your shoulder and almost function like a scarf, and this one does exactly that (also there is such a good array of sizes that anyone can size up and wear it to layer over a button down or even a fitted jacket). It also happens to be the perfect shade of camel, and the most classic of preppy classics.” —Stellene Volandes, Editor in Chief

Marsh Sweater

“Not for nothing but the French label Sezane is excellent on knitwear. I recently wrote about the various reasons for its success, including its celebrity fans, but you don't have to be Kate Middleton to appreciate Sezane's sweater swagger. I've been wearing the Marsh over my shoulders on gusty beach days or over a button-up during those occasional cool summer nights, and I'm planning on layering with it this fall. The cotton-linen blend makes it a solid anchor for a transitional season wardrobe.” —Erik Maza, Executive Style Director

Custom Womens Crewneck

“The two T&C rules to the essential sweater for slinging over your shoulder? Bespoke monogram & cashmere. I wear this one from Lingua Franca for anything and everything—from jeans to dresses. The irresistible soft cashmere keeps me warm in the office and when it gets cold in the fall, I keep it in my bag to combat the chilly weather.” —Dania Ortiz, Fashion and Accessories Director

Mae Sweater

“I am nothing if not an over-the-shoulder sweater enthusiast. It’s honestly something that I go very few days without and it’s my go-to styling hack when navigating the transitional dressing season (or the battle between the sweltering outdoors vs cold indoors). Catch me wearing this preppy staple with a black vest, wide legged pants and fun flats.” —Jaclyn Bloomfield, Fashion Editor

Cashmere Crewneck Sweater

“Yes, something chunky and cozy enough to throw effortlessly over your shoulders is important. But for days when I feel like tying a sweater around my waist instead, I like a knit that can cater to both sartorial moods—which is why my closet is full of men’s sweaters. This cashmere J.Crew version strikes the perfect balance: roomy enough for layering, soft enough to double as a scarf, and just the right thickness for a little je ne sais quoi wrap around the waist.” — Leena Kim, Editor

Chloe Crewneck

“You can never go wrong with a stripe sweater, especially if it’s from Jenni Kayne. Her stuff is high quality and the ivory/navy colorway layers fabulously over all kinds of outfits.” -—Sophie Dweck, Associate Shopping Editor

Wool and Cashmere Crewneck Sweater

“I tend to gravitate towards neutrals, so I like to have my shoulder sweater as an accent color to the rest of my outfit. The soft blue in this Prada knit is subtle but still adds a pop. I run cold typically so I always keep this slung over my shoulders no matter what I’m wearing.” —Hannah Morrolf, Fashion Assistant

Stripe Crew Sweater

“I am never one to stray away from stripes. Even more so now that ralphcore is here to stay for the brisk months ahead. With sweater weather just around the corner, why not invest in this cashmere one from Guest in Residence? It feels lusciously soft to the touch and it’s seamlessly easy to style. When I don’t have it draped over my shoulders, I like to layer it on over a pair of white trousers and my red Tabi's.” —Mayra Morales, Fashion Assistant

Tammy Cashmere Crewneck Sweater

“I have simply lived in this crewneck all summer and will surely continue to wear it through September. In fact, I love it so much, I have written about it extensively. To sum up: it is the perfect gauge knit to keep me warm, but not overly chunky, and it has held up after months of constant wear. I’ll be keeping it tied around my shoulders for a pop of color, even when unexpected, until I make the full transition to my fall color palette.” — Roxanne Adamiyatt, Deputy Digital Lifestyle Director

2-Ply Cashmere Zip-Up

“I love a quarter zip, especially for an airport look. My favorite styling trick? Wearing it like a really chunky scarf, instead of tying it in the front.” —Isiah Magsino, Style News Editor

Mini Marina Sweater

“After a few summer flings with La Ligne’s chunky cotton sweaters, this one has moved to the top of the roster: a cropped version of their Marina bestseller. With the same tight, long ribbed cuff and cozy roll neck that had me falling the first time, the shorter crop is perfect to wrap around bare shoulders or throw over a long dress to squeeze an extra month of wear in as the temps drop. Has been slung across many a carry-on in chilly airports across America this summer; no signs of slowing down.” —Claire Brito, Social Media Editor

Featherweight Cashmere Shrunken Cardigan Sweater

"I’m 100% a cardigan girl, especially when it comes to throwing a sweater over my shoulders. They’re such a versatile wardrobe staple. You can wear them normally, button one button at the top, wear it draped over your shoulders, the possibilities are endless (which is great for someone like me who gets bored of my outfits halfway through the day!). I’ve been loving navy blue for the transitional season right now, so this J Crew cardigan is a must-have for me. Plus it will look so cute paired with a pair of red flats!” —Tess Donlevie, Designer

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