One sweater, six ways

8 styling formulas for a colourful striped sweater — featuring only garments I already own

I’m back with the second round of One Garment, X Ways! I feel like I need to come up with a better title for the series, but whatever. I’m sure it’ll randomly come to me at some point.

The first edition of this series was really well-received, which was fantastic to see. And not just because it was my most popular post to date and brought The Pastel Minimalist several new followers — hi, I appreciate you, and I hope you’re ok with the non-fashion content too ♡

Those numbers show that people really are looking for a change when it comes to fashion consumption. It’s so heartening to see that we’re moving past haul culture and the constant chase of newness. Whether you want a glimpse into my little closet for inspiration or simply to satisfy your curiosity, I’m honoured you’re here!

So, without further ado, here is March’s item of the month: what I like to call my popsicle sweater. February’s garment was very minimal, so this month I’m swinging to the opposite end of the spectrum with one of the loudest pieces I own. It’s pastel minimalism at its finest.

Also, it matches my phone case!

The origin story

This sweater is a fairly recent addition to my wardrobe — I can’t remember if I got it in 2022 or 2023. It was love at first sight: the vibrant colours, the soft fade between the stripes … it has a nostalgic feel to it, one part 90s grunge (I could see Kurt Cobain rocking something similar) and one part 7-year-old chasing after an ice cream truck.

It also came in a watermelon-like colourway (hot pink and bright green; my British friend said it’s like Refreshers, which I’m assuming are candies or something else sweet), but I thought the orange and blue would suit my skin tone better. I often get compliments on it, so I think I chose correctly.

Mood whenever I wear this sweater

It’s the perfect early spring sweater, IMO. I love to wear it on those first bright, sunny days when you can finally start to feel the sun’s warmth again. Though I don’t just limit myself to the current season; it’s great for brightening up true winter days or reluctantly embracing the autumn chill. Regardless, it’s definitely one of the most fun and distinctive pieces I own.

Oh, btw, it’s from Arket.

Look 1: with flared blue jeans

Unsurprisingly, this sweater pairs perfectly with blue jeans. The flares really create a retro, nostalgic vibe. Also, don’t mind my slippers. I run a no outside shoes in the house ship to the best of my ability. Plus, they match!

Look 2: with wide leg jeans

I feel like the wide legs really lend to the 90s feel while also feeling very current. With these jeans, I prefer doing a full tuck to balance the roomy proportions of both pieces.

Look 3: with straight leg jeans

I hope this isn’t feeling too redundant yet, but what can I say? This sweater pairs perfectly with pretty much any pair of blue jeans.

Look 4: with a cream mini skirt

If I’m not wearing this sweater with denim, I’m probably wearing it with this cream mini skirt. Fun fact: this is the sweater that cemented my belief that whites and creams are more versatile neutrals than black. We always hear that black goes with everything, but trust me when I say it does not go with this sweater.

Sometimes I like to wear the sweater untucked for a more casual feel.

Look 5: with denim shorts

Back to denim, sorry. This look is kind of tricky to pull off because the sweater is made with alpaca wool so it’s quite warm, but if this isn’t the cutest combo to wear for an early morning or evening at the beach when that cool ocean air is hitting.

Look 6: with cream joggers

Maybe I’m cheating with this one as it’s not really something I’d wear outside the house (unless I’m taking Lady for a little walk around the block), but sometimes it’s nice to feel boujee in your loungewear, you know? It’s still another way to wear the sweater, and it definitely makes me feel more polished when I’m just chilling at home.

Styling notes

Honestly, because this sweater is so loud and commanding, I wouldn’t add much else to these outfits besides proper shoes. I do have a light blue scarf that I’ve styled with it on colder days, but otherwise I wouldn’t feel the need to accessorize further.

Versatility rating: 4/10

I can’t lie, this is far from the most versatile piece I own. The colour palette is very specific and I wouldn’t venture outside of the blues, creams, and oranges of the sweater. I actually don’t own any orange bottoms, so creams and blues are really my only options.

Still though, I absolutely love it, and I have six ways to wear it, which is enough for me!

I know it probably goes against the typical minimalist wardrobe rules of optimal versatility and garments that go with everything, but it’s a distinctive piece, and those are the ones I really get attached to. I know I’d miss this sweater if I gave it up. Besides, I wear denim a lot, so it doesn’t get ignored in my rotation. It’s a prime example of finding staples that work for you.

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Thank you for reading! I hope you’ve enjoyed this very real glimpse into my wardrobe and everyday style.

The next round will be in a month’s time. Until then, you know what to do for more minimalist fashion & living inspo.