Skip to content
Fashion glossary

What is a jumper: types, differences, and what to wear them with

Camille Durand 3 min read

What is a jumper?

Jumper - is a knitted or jersey shoulder garment without fasteners along the entire length, which is put on over the head.

Read also our full guide: Types of Sweaters: How to Choose the Perfect Knitwear

Historically, this item of clothing appeared at the end of the 19th century as an element of sports equipment for track and field athletes, hence its name (from the English jumper (jumper). The jumper entered the everyday women's wardrobe in the 1920s thanks to Coco Chanel, who adapted men's knitwear for women.

Джемпер - 1
Classic plain knit jumper with a round neckline

The main difference between a jumper and a sweater is the lack of a high stand-up collar. It differs from a pullover in the neckline: a jumper has a classic crew neck, not a V-neck. A short fastening at the neckline (a zipper or buttons up to 10 cm long) is acceptable, but the main part of the garment always remains one piece.

Main types

The classic crew neck jumper is a smooth knit with a crew neck. It features a fitted or semi-fitted silhouette that easily integrates into layered business and casual looks.

Джемпер - 2
A basic semi-fitted jumper paired with high-waisted trousers

A polo jumper with a soft turn-down collar and a short placket with several buttons. This style combines elements of sporty aesthetics with smart-casual style.

Oversized sweaters feature dropped shoulders and a loose fit. These jumpers are often made from textured yarns or feature chunky knits.

Джемпер - 3
Chunky knit polo jumper with dropped shoulders

A crop jumper ends at the waist or above. It's designed to be paired with high-waisted skirts and trousers, accentuating the proportions of the silhouette.

What to combine with

For a business look, wear a thin cashmere or merino wool jumper over a formal white shirt. The collar is untucked, and the look is completed with straight-leg, pleated suit trousers.

Джемпер - 4
A layered look with a thin jumper worn over a shirt

For a smart-casual look, tuck a polo into wide-leg palazzo pants. Complete the look with a wide leather belt and classic loafers.

For everyday wear, pair a voluminous, textured oversized jumper with a flowing silk slip dress. This look is built on contrasting textures: chunky knit and smooth, fine silk.

When paired with denim, this basic semi-fitted silhouette is worn with straight, plain jeans. A thin turtleneck in a contrasting shade can be worn underneath the jumper to create a complex, layered silhouette.

Какой у тебя цветотип?

Узнай свой сезонный цветотип и подбирай одежду, которая подчёркивает естественную красоту

About the author

C
Camille Durand

Fashion journalist with 10+ years covering Fashion Week. Analyzes trends and translates runway fashion into everyday looks. Knows the industry inside out — from backstage to brand strategies.

Try MioLook
for free

Start creating perfect outfits with artificial intelligence

Get started free