The crew-neck, long-sleeved sweater, often stored away for warmer months, is emerging as summer's most useful and stylish accessory. Fashion enthusiasts are repurposing this wardrobe staple by slinging it around their shoulders or necks, a trend dubbed the "sling-around sweater" (SAS).
This styling technique, while not entirely new and previously seen on fashion show front rows, has now crossed over into mainstream fashion. It's lauded for its practicality and ease of integration into everyday wear, offering a way to "anti-age" a wardrobe without additional expense.
Styling the SAS
To achieve the SAS look effectively, the sweater should be soft and of light to medium weight. Chunky knits or heavy wools can appear too heavy for warmer weather, and a straight sweater is generally preferred over a cardigan for a neater drape. Wool is often considered more elegant than cotton for this purpose.
A common way to wear the SAS is draped down the back, with the sleeves looped once across the chest. This offers a touch of extra coverage and can add visual interest through texture and color. Actress Daisy Edgar-Jones was observed wearing a beige SAS around her neck with a sleeveless sundress at the Cannes Film Festival, an example of how the accessory can enhance an outfit's elegance.
The SAS can function similarly to a shawl but with a more contemporary feel. It can soften the neckline of a tailored dress or provide a hint of structure when worn over a shirt, offering coverage for those who may prefer not to go sleeveless. The choice of color is flexible, with plain, non-fussy options recommended. A bright color can act as a focal point against a minimalist outfit, while neutral tones can create a subtle layered effect. For instance, a grey wool T-shirt paired with a matching SAS, white jeans, and black pumps, as seen on Edgar-Jones during Cannes week, demonstrates a chic tonal combination.
Alternative Ways to Wear the SAS
Beyond the shoulders, the SAS can also be worn around the hips or waist. When using a light, soft sweater, this can serve as a stylish alternative to a belt, particularly for averagely tall individuals. Tying a small black sweater around the hips of white jeans can add polish without creating bulk. The sleeves can be tied in front, offering a casual cover-up for the lower body.
This versatile accessory is not limited to a single season. In spring, sweaters were draped over trench coat lapels. As cooler weather approaches or on breezy summer evenings, the SAS can be worn over a jacket or knotted at the throat of a blazer, presenting a modern alternative to a traditional pashmina or shawl. Kendall Jenner has also been photographed wearing a sweater tied around her waist, adding a smart element to her attire.
The SAS trend offers a simple and accessible method for updating a summer wardrobe, emphasizing personal style and the adaptability of existing clothing items.