How to Style a Hoodie in an Elevated Way

If there’s one thing I’ve learned over years of styling various outfits, it’s that you don’t have to sacrifice comfort in order to look chic. One wardrobe staple that is proof of this concept? A basic hoodie.

Hoodies are undeniably cozy and they offer you an instant “cool chick” vibe if you know how to style them just right. However, it can be tricky to put together hoodie outfits when you’re not used to wearing them on more “formal” occasions.

You heard that right—there’s no need to reserve wearing a hoodie for the days you spend lounging around the house (although that works too.) I think they can look really cute—and even elevated—if you pair them with the right pieces.

Here, I’m sharing a handful of tips for how to style a hoodie, along with photos of some outfits I’d recommend playing around with.

p.s. My hoodie of choice is this one from H&M. It runs TTS, so if you want an oversized feel, I’d suggest sizing up. It’s fully stocked and it retails for just $20 (can’t beat that!) I also think it looks much more expensive than it is, it’s high quality, comes in a variety of colors, and goes with so many looks!

How to Style a Hoodie

Office Edgy

You guys know I have always been one to push the envelope when it comes to workwear. I just can’t do boring friends, sorry! With that being said, I can name dozens of fields that leather pants and a hoodie would be appropriate to wear to—as long as you strike the right balance. If it’s not the case of your office, trade the bottoms for a high waist crepe trouser (see work-ready pants) or even a pencil skirt.

Modern Day Out

When styling a hoodie, try not to overthink things. Just two staples paired together, like white jeans and a basic hoodie, can look quite chic. I added a cute bag and dressier sneakers for a polished yet casual outfit for a day filled with errands. I love the fit of these white jeans, but any pair would do.

Sharp Casual

You might think Bermuda long jeans are out of style, but I happen to think they’re a great piece that you can style multiple ways—including with a hoodie. This is one of the more casual hoodie outfits on my list, but it’s easy to throw together and is comfortable to wear on a busy day. You could really go with any type of shoe, whether you’re into white sneakers, chunky loafers, or mules.

Spring or Summer Night Out

You could always throw a hoodie over a cute ruffle mini skirt or dress to add a little bit of a cool vibe. This one is sold out but you can find lots of ideas here. Try tying your hoodie around your waist to dress down the look and make it even more casual. I’m also loving these low heel sandals, which would look adorable with this outfit for a date night.

Elegant and Laid Back

A little black blazer over anything automatically takes an outfit up a notch. If you want to be daring, go for a blazer in a bold color or design. In this case, I went neutral with a classic black option paired with high waisted jeans, flats, and a top handle bag.

Sporty Chic

Another must-have I recently found but it’s nothing new are this ultra high rise longer shorts. Stay with your true size or go down a size if you’re in between. The fit is insane—I feel so good in them! Just add a pair of chunky white sneakers and a fun belt bag complete this sporty-chic look!

Cool Chick Look

Let me introduce you to the cutest transitional weather uniform: a mini leather skirt, sherpa jean jacket, and combat boots. I added my Chanel bag because it’s totally unexpected—and that’s how I like to put my outfits together—but any crossbody bag would work.

Which outfit is your favorite? Let me know in the comment section below!