What to Wear With a Black and White Striped Sweater

Neil P. Mockford/Getty Images Entertainment/Getty Images

A white sweater goes with everything and the black variety is undeniably chic; but combine black and white into a flattering stripe and you’ve got a sweater that packs a powerful fashion punch. Simultaneously classic and free-spirited, neutral stripes can be mixed and matched with a myriad of colors and styles to fit nearly any setting. Break out of the solid-colored sweater rut with a black and white pullover or cardigan, and enjoy the stylish options that await you.

Professional Polish

Make your black and white striped sweater workplace appropriate by keeping the color palette neutral and your clothing pieces streamlined. Black and white are obvious choices for your other separates -- wear a fitted, black pencil skirt with your striped sweater, or try white trousers and a black blazer to appear boardroom ready. Complete either look with black pumps, simple silver jewelry and a patent-leather bag. You can also combine your sweater with other neutrals like beige or gray; top a simple, charcoal shift dress with a white and black cardigan for both warmth and style interest.

Casual Cute

Thin, horizontal, black and white stripes can function like a neutral, similar to a leopard-print pattern, making them an ideal match for vivid hues. For a day of shopping or a leisurely lunch with friends, team a doman-style, black and white sweater with bright cobalt skinny jeans or fuchsia cut-off shorts. If you’re feeling especially free-spirited, rock your stripes with another pattern; for instance, top a black, white, pink and green floral sundress with a cropped, striped cardigan that has a three-quarter-length sleeve. Top off the look with neutral T-strap sandals and colorful bangle bracelets.

Extra Edge

Mix a black and white sweater with a variety of textures and roughed-up styles for an edgy, rocker vibe. Start with frayed, denim cut-off shorts, and top your fitted black and white sweater with a studded, leather moto-style jacket. Finish with lace-up biker boots. Glam up the look just a bit with a pair of skinny leather pants and suede booties in a contrasting color -- think burgundy or mustard -- and finish with metallic hoops and a chunky watch.

Resort Ready

Use your black and white striped sweater as the basis for a breezy nautical look. Pair a boat-neck, thin-knit sweater with red crop pants and neutral espadrilles. Complete the ensemble with a gold and red, anchor-motif charm bracelet. Mix up your maritime vibe by wearing crisp, white shorts and a chambray button-down; top the shirt with your black and white sweater and let the collar peek out. Finish with neutral canvas slip-ons, and slide your arm through a yellow or red oversize tote for a cheeky pop of color.