Oatmeal sweater: the chic winter basic to elevate your look this winter

Sober, soft yet precise, the oatmeal sweater is a must-have this winter. Its oatmeal hue structures an outfit without overwhelming it, from the office to the weekend. It ticks all the boxes for a thoughtful, easy-going wardrobe.

Why this neutral knitwear is so popular right now

The “oatmeal” shade evokes oats, between beige, greige and sand. It soothes the ensemble while warming the complexion. What’s more, its sobriety matches the codes of quiet luxury.

In fashion, we’re looking for simple yet precise pieces. The oatmeal sweater meets this need with a clean cut and legible texture. As a result, it effortlessly elevates the look.

Its power lies in the fabric and the way it falls. A medium knit, a round collar, a well-placed shoulder, and you’re done. Contrasting textures create relief.

“Sobriety reveals the silhouette, especially in winter.”

Practical looks for everyday life

For the office, pair with navy pants and derbies. The neutral base allows for a textured, houndstooth or herringbone jacket. At weekends, raw denim jeans and ankle boots are all you need.

Maison Labiche – Mini Manufacture Oatmeal Beige Sweater. Minimal and clean, this beige oatmeal model can be worn with a tone-on-tone outfit, then highlighted with indigo jeans.

• Choose a medium gauge for a soft fall.
• Contrast knitwear with raw denim.
• Dare to layer with a striped shirt.
• Structure the waist with a slim belt.
• Finish with a warm accessory, hat or scarf.

For an evening version, slip it under a black blazer. Then add a satin skirt and strappy pumps. In short, matte texture balances shine.

Materials, knits and details to watch out for

Choose fibers that breathe. Merino wool remains soft and stable throughout the day. However, a wool-cotton blend works very well in heated interiors.

Noisy May – NMJAZ L/S O-NECK CROP KNIT FWD (Black Oatmeal). The crop cut energizes a high-waisted silhouette, while the black oatmeal color modernizes a contrasting oatmeal sweater.

Look closely at the knit. A twisted knit adds relief, while a smooth knit elongates the line. What’s more, firm ribbing and a neat collar hold up better.

Marks & Spencer – Short wool sweater with round neck and textured pattern. Short but easy to wear, it brightens up a pair of wide-leg pants, then structures a long coat.

Playing with colors and winning combinations

Oatmeal beige loves midnight blue, charcoal grey and chocolate brown. This keeps the balance chic, even with white sneakers. An oatmeal sweater also tolerates a discreet powder pink.

Self – Pullover oatmeal (oatmeal/beige). The oatmeal/beige shade blends into a neutral palette, and makes an elegant duo with a wool midi skirt.

Practical guide: cutting, maintenance and longevity

Adapt the cut to your use. For layering, choose a straight cut with a round collar. Also, a slightly loose-fitting oatmeal sweater makes it easier to wear a shirt underneath.

Selected – Wool-blend cable knit sweater. The twists give rhythm to the silhouette, and therefore enhance a simple outfit of chino and loafers.

For care, wash on a delicate cycle at 30°C in a net. Then dry flat to maintain shape. Finally, brush gently to remove pilling.

ONLY – Onlmelody Gilet KNT Noos (Gilet; Oatmeal). This oatmeal cardigan replaces a classic cardigan, so it complements a twin-set or frames a white tee.

• sweater oatmeal