Styling a Jumper Under a Suit

When you conjure up the image of a gentleman wearing a well-fitted suit, you probably automatically picture him wearing a shirt and tie. That’s not surprising, of course – in the majority of cases, that’s exactly how suits are worn. But there are exceptions. Suits work really well with less formal underlayers, too, such as T-shirts, sweatshirts, and the garments we’re looking at today – jumpers. It’s a growing trend that shows no sign of abating, so we thought we’d give the lowdown on choosing a suitable sweater, and how to wear it.

What’s The Attraction?

Why has the jumper under a suit been embraced with such enthusiasm? The answer probably lies both in its functionality and its aesthetic versatility. As temperatures fall, there’s the obvious benefit of giving that little extra insulation. And since the jumper is just a layer, it can be removed and put on as you move from place to place.

But it’s not merely about keeping warm – it’s a style statement in itself. It works in the office, on Zoom calls, and entertaining clients at the restaurant, making it a versatile item that softens the formal edge while suit keeps things businesslike.

Throw in the fact that it’s a demonstrably good look in the right hands, and the final piece of the jigsaw slots into place. You need look no further than one of the coolest men on the planet, Pep Guardiola, for a live demonstration of touchline chic, and the jumper/jacket combo is most definitely part of his repertoire.

All in all, the jumper-and-suit combination is incredibly versatile, and you’ll find it’s suitable for a range of occasions. In a business setting, it conveys professionalism but also gives off a slight hint of creativity. In social environments, it’s perfect if you want to project the self-assured, laid-back you. 

Choosing The Right Jumper

To select the best jumper, you need to focus on the material. Cotton, cashmere and wool blends are top contenders. Each brings its own texture and level of warmth, but they all offer comfort without sacrificing style and smartness. The key is in the thickness. It’s always best to opt for a slimmer fit to ensure your silhouette remains sharp rather than cushioned.

Remember – you’ve probably got a T-shirt or vest on, plus the jacket, making a minimum of three layers. You definitely don’t need a fisherman’s jumper to stay warm, and since a lighter knit is closer to the bulk of a shirt, you’ll find it fits perfectly without creasing and bulking up. Going for a sleeveless jumper can be the perfect compromise, especially if you’re planning to leave your suit jacket on.

Colour coordination is another key aspect. While classic neutrals such as grey, navy or black can blend seamlessly with most suits, don’t shy away from injecting a bit of personality with a bold hue. A deep burgundy or forest green can add a layer of interest without overwhelming the overall look.

Pay attention to the neck, too. A crew neck gives a smart, finished appearance, while a V-neck can be worn over a shirt and tie, giving a functional fashion vibe. You can also opt for a polo or turtleneck, which can emit a laid-back Beatnik look, especially if it’s all in black.

Selecting0 The Right Suit

Your choice of suit is just as essential. Basically, the suit is there to complement the jumper, not compete with it. Single-breasted suits often work better from a practical standpoint, as their looser, more streamlined design accommodates the extra layer more comfortably. Fabric matters too. Think wool blend or a subtle tweed for colder months, as they harmonise well with jumper textures.

Colour-wise, you can’t go wrong with a classic navy or charcoal grey as they are endlessly adaptable, giving you plenty of experimentation options when it comes to jumper shades.

Layering Up

Layering a jumper under a suit is an art, not a science, so a little time in front of the mirror goes a long way. Start with fit; ensure that the jumper isn’t bunching at the sleeves or shoulders, as that would disrupt the suit’s tailored silhouette.

The collar is another focal point. If you want to maintain formal undertones by wearing a visible shirt, you can simply opt for a crew neck and let the collars sit on the jumper, or you can choose a V-neck and wear your usual shirt and tie beneath it.

Avoid These Pitfalls

While the jumper-under-suit look is generally forgiving, some potential mistakes should be taken into account if you don’t want to ruin the look. Mismatched textures or clashing colours are easy to stumble into if you’re not paying attention. All that does is disrupts the intended harmony. Similarly, the overall silhouette should remain streamlined.

Avoid overly thick jumpers at all costs. They distort the suit’s natural lines and cause bunching and folds that will be plain to see through almost any suit.

And finally, make sure your jumper is immaculate, with no bobbles or pulls. You’ve got to treat it like high quality business wear – you wouldn’t wear a shirt with frayed collars or a tea-stained tie, after all.

Pull off The Pullover Look

Styling a jumper under a suit is primarily about knowing the occasion and gauging the level of formality it demands. A jumper might not always be appropriate at the glitzier end of the social spectrum, but for business and pleasure, it’s a look that can help you stand out from the crowd. The practical considerations – i.e. staying warm – should probably take a back seat if you’re wearing a suit. If you’re worried about freezing out in the cold, a good overcoat or under-layering are usually better options.