Easy Outfits: How to Layer a Simple Black Sweater Over a Dress

I'm all about black sweaters. Turtlenecks, crewnecks, mocknecks. Give me 'em all! Since I never tire of black sweater outfits in cool weather, I thought it wise to shake up my go-to formulas this Fall and, surprisingly, I veered in a very edgy direction. It all started with this supersoft, incredibly versatile, and ultra-affordable black sweater from the POPSUGAR collection at Kohl's — if you've been following along, you might recognize it from this sweater-and-pant outfit and/or this jeans-and-sweater look.

Available in five colors, this $37 sweater features a perfect mockneck, balloon sleeves, and an oversize silhouette — it's my ideal layering piece this season. It has a trendy feel to it, but not so much so that it won't be a fixture in my wardrobe for a few years. With an urge to start layering now that the weather is cooling down in New York City, I reached for one of my favorite Summer dresses from Rebecca Taylor's La Vie line and threw the comfy sweater over it. Then, for an edgy twist, I mixed in the coolest pair of black combat boots with crystal detailing from Jimmy Choo, a pink pouch bag from Zara, sheer black tights, and sharp sunglasses.

As the finishing Fall touch, I swiped on our very own Beauty by POPSUGAR Be Racy Liquid Velvet Lip lipstick in Berry Nice, which, I have to say, is very hydrating on the ole pout.

Now, considering my style tends quite feminine and minimal, this outfit would probably seem outside my comfort zone. But with a few fresh elements at play, including the voluminous sleeves on my sweater, the shades of pink via my dress and bag, and the crystal detailing on my boots, I felt true to my personal aesthetic, but with an edgier twist. Most importantly, the sweater-over-dress styling hack is a comfy one I know I'll rewear throughout the season with a range of boots in my wardrobe both for the office and evenings out for dinner and drinks.

Ahead, witness my cozy-cool outfit and shop the exact pieces to re-create it on your own, as well as a few affordable boot options for $100 or less. And be sure to check back as we continue to bring you more easy Fall outfit formulas, from the newest dress trends to outfits centered around boots and polished trends you can wear to work.