5 Classy, Affordable Sweaters for Women Over 50

Here’s the challenge. Where do you find casual, affordable sweaters that also look classy?

My wardrobe is a mix of high and low. Sometimes, I like to pull out all the stops and invest in something like a high-end designer cashmere sweater.  But other times,  I’m just looking for a cute and casual knit for my relaxed 50+ lifestyle. You know, while I’m at home on my computer, running out to a doctor’s appointment, or popping out to dinner with my husband.

I have found (to my surprise sometimes) that Amazon has some good finds. I’ve bought several of their house brand sweaters from Amazon Essentials and The Drop.

I’ve also been testing a few other popular brands sold on Amazon, and I’ve come across some very nice, bestselling sweaters at affordable prices.  The quality is similar to what you’d find at Target, Walmart, J.Marshalls, or other popular department stores.

Here are a few sweaters that I have been wearing recently that fit into the classy, affordable category.

cardigan | jeans | belt | boots | earrings | bag |

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Chic Cable Knit Cardigan

Do you like the look of a long cardigan styled with jeans?  I think it’s very sophisticated. Most of my long cardigans are a smooth and a solid, single color. Since cable knit cardigans are trending, and this one caught my eye, I decided to try it.

I’ve been very pleased! It’s a soft, comfy, stretchy sweater that feels good on.  I love the beautiful texture and the two-tone look of this cardigan, and I love the way the black contrast trim elevates the look.

This sweater comes in numerous color combinations, but I chose beige and black, which is always chic. A cardigan like this looks great paired with a plain off-white knit tee to show off the black edging.

You could easily wear this cardigan with blue jeans, but my black Levi 724 straight jeans kick it up a notch. Black is always more formal, which is kind of nice!

Style Tip: When in doubt, mixing neutrals always makes an affordable outfit look expensive. Be sure to mix textures too!

cardigan | jeans | belt | boots | bag | earrings

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Mock Neck, Drop Shoulder

Sometimes, the style of a sweater can make it look more expensive than it is. For example, this gorgeous sweater with the relaxed drop shoulders and slouchy fit has an effortless, elegant vibe.

It’s got a modern, chunky look because of all the texture, but it’s very soft and lightweight.

I love how the long, puffy sleeves make it feel romantic, and that mock neck looks so chic.

This sweater comes in many beautiful shades, but I was drawn to this smokey ash brown. It looks rich paired with black jeans, suede booties, and my fabulous leather tote.

Style Tip: The belt also adds a lot, and it’s reversible! Flip it over, and it’s a brown belt, too.

sweater | jeans  | earrings | belt |

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Richly Ribbed

Here’s another cozy sweater with an artsy feel that looks designer. What makes it work for me is the combination of a few things. First, that rust color is stunning. It’s bold and powerful yet warm and inviting.

Second, that sleek boat neckline and the dramatic Dolman sleeves say creative to me. Third, the fine ribbing adds texture but makes this sweater look elegant.

This sweater would also look great with black or brown pants, but I love the contrast with dark-wash jeans. It’s a standout!

Style Tip: An animal print bag is a nice way to tie it all together and add some excitment.

cardigan | jeans | shoes | earrings |

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Tres Chic!

If you haven’t noticed, all things French are trending this fall. Whether you buy something designer or budget, it’s a very classy look.

There are many Chanel-inspired styles around, like this lovely cropped cardigan. This cute sweater jacket has a beautiful waffle knit and is trimmed with classy gold buttons.

I like to wear it with cropped jeans, cap-toe flat slingbacks, and dark-wash jeans. It looks chic when you wear it buttoned up with nothing underneath, or you can throw on a tee and wear it open like a classic lady jacket.

I partial to black because this is a very rich, deep shade of black, but it also comes in a few other colors. I have my eye on the beige one!

Style Tip: I like cropped jeans or pants with this cardigan. They give it a more alluring French look because you see a touch of ankle. If you like these Mott and Bow jeans I’m wearing, they are the 28″ length. I’m, 5’7″

sweater | slit front pants | shoes | earrings | bag

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Classy Coral Splash

Finding a colorful, budget-friendly sweater that looks expensive can be tricky. Here’s one I think looks quite classy when paired with soft, stretchy black slit front pants. This clear, bright coral color is playful and alluring. It’s also such a soft kit one might even be fooled into thinking it is cashmere!  This pretty sweater is cheery, casual, and chic and won’t break the bank.

Style Tip: Have a peek at my bag. The faux croc is very classy and adds texture to a plain look, plus, I don’t have the strap attached, but this cute little Dior-style bag is also a crossbody.

The Final Word

Great style comes in all price points. It’s easy to look classy on a budget with these elegant cardigans that look expensive but they’re not! Links to shop are below each outfit!