(Fashion)

These Sweaters Show Some Skin (While Still Keeping You Warm)

The “naked sweater” look has gone from trend to closet staple.

by Erin Cunningham

Aug. 23, 2022

Christian Vierig/Getty Images Entertainment/Getty Images

DUESSELDORF, GERMANY - DECEMBER 08: Gitta Banko wearing a pink cashmere turtleneck sweater with cut-...

Over the past few years, the “naked sweater” look has gone from trend to closet staple. And it’s no surprise why: Cut-out sweaters allow you to reveal just the right amount without having to compromise on warmth.

With various style options available — from a more scandalous, completely exposed midriff to subdued peekaboo slits — there are ways for anyone (even the most modest dressers) to show a little skin when the temperatures are below freezing.

Beyond their functionality though, cut-out sweaters also provide a more creative approach to winter fashion. (It’s no surprise that they’re one of TZR’s SVP of Fashion Tiffany Reid’s favorite fall picks.) Outfits for the chillier seasons can often feel like they’re on repeat, with the same tight turtleneck or chunky knit on rotation for the umpteenth time. If you’re not willing to give up their cozy nature, however, these items are an ideal middle ground. They lend the same impact (read: warmth, style, substance), but with an unexpected twist.

Shop 10 of the season’s most on-trend cut-out sweaters that offer up a serious dose of cold-weather sex appeal below. Here, find playful takes on all of your favorite winter materials, colors, and silhouettes, all reimagined with a seductive touch.

TZR Shop is The Zoe Report’s shoppable guide to editor-approved buys in fashion, beauty, wellness, and lifestyle. We may receive a portion of sales if you purchase a product through a link in this article.

Proenza Schouler

Black Proenza Schouler White Label Sweater

$395

$213

Subtle slits at the armpit give the illusion that this sweater is actually two pieces — a ribbed tank and a shrug — in one. Plus, its sleek black color and cashmere-blend construction makes this a piece you can dress up (with a mini skirt and platforms) or down (with puddle jeans and ballet flats).

R13

Black Distressed Sweater

$485

$286

Thoughtfully distressed is a look that’s always effortlessly on-trend, and this oversized knit in a cool acid wash provides just that. Holes appear throughout for that right amount of edge. Wear it solo to show some skin, or layer a simple white tank top underneath.

GCDS

Black Cropped Sweater

$415

$145

With this cropped sweater, the cut-out nearly doubles as a piece of jewelry. A thin piece of fabric adorned with the brand’s logo in gold hardware sits across the chest, acting as a companion for the sparkling threads woven throughout. Pull double-duty and let your mid-section go bare with low-rise pants, or style with a high-waisted plaid skirt for a ‘90s vibe.

Versace Jeans Couture

Blue Cotton Sweater

$450

Cut-outs don’t just show skin — they help create interesting necklines. Here, an off-the-shoulder shirt meets a halter top for the ultimate in visual intrigue. Adding to that is a bold tie-dye pattern — a welcomed change from winter’s sea of neutrals.

Y/Project

Beige Cotton Sweater

$1,060

Cable knit but with a twist — literally. Fun knots create a modified version of a crewneck on this cream-colored sweater. It’s as good for lounging around with leggings or with a black micro mini and combat boots for that of-the-moment pop-punk resurgence.

Though not technically a sweater, this chic bodysuit is all business in the front, party in the back. A round collar and long sleeves make this an ideal layering piece, while the open cut-out on the back lets you show things off — but only when you really want to.

Live the Process

Pink & Gray Taurus Sport Top

$140

$60

Don’t sleep on this look when it comes to athleisure. This cropped sports top features cut-outs at the shoulders to make your worn-out gym T-shirt feel so 2021. With layered construction and a bra-style underlay, it also provides a bit of support for workouts in-between weekend errands and casual outings.

A little cutesy, a little cheeky, this sweater is for the faint of heart. A keyhole across the chest gives this short-sleeved knit a graphic touch. Wear it now, then bring it out again for Valentine’s Day.

Issey Miyake

Pink Fluidity Loop Sweater

$620

$434

Just because summer is ending doesn’t mean you have to put those abs away for the winter. Crafted from 100% recycled polyester, the midriff cut-out on this sweater allows you to show off a slice of stomach no matter the season. The pink-meets-purple rib knit will also brighten up a dreary, chilly day.

Sultry enough for a date night and warm enough for the aptly named sweater weather, this turquoise knit is an absolute must-have. Pair with pleated skirt and knee-high boots — all in black, of course — for a wintery outfit with plenty of sex appeal.

TZR Shop brings you the editor-approved buys we can’t get enough of and think you’ll adore, too. Best of all, you can shop all of the products above directly on this page without visiting multiple retailers. Simply click on an item to learn more, choose your size or favorite color (if applicable), and then hit “add to cart.” When you’re done, you can click over to your cart in the top right corner of your screen to purchase all your stellar selects at once. How easy is that?

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