It’s been a while since I shared Pinterest inspired looks, so I thought the idea of how to style a chunky sweater would be perfect for the season.
There’s just something irresistible about a chunky sweater! It’s cozy, full of personality, and, when styled right, it brings a fresh, high-fashion vibe to any outfit.
Quote of the day: “People can sometimes be held hostage by their expectations…The key is to reach for an extremely high bar, but to be adaptable enough to reframe the failures, disappointments, and defeats into fuel for the next thing.” James Clear
The idea of how to style a chunky sweater can be daunting if your only concerns are fashion rules and that your outfit should be “flattering.” (Most of us grew up that EVERY outfit had to be flattering, but I talk about why would should rethink that idea.)
We all know that chunky sweaters add bulk, but once we get over the idea that bulk is bad, we then can have fun with these items.
Pinterest Inspired
This inspirational photo from Pinterest is below. I wouldn’t call it flattering if you were trying to make the woman look small or thin. Yet even if you don’t read the funny on the front of the sweatshirt, the outfit is interesting if you are open to that sort of thing.
In fact, I’d call it playful with a modern vibe. Sure most older women aren’t wearing tulle skirts but I wish they would and even showed ideas of how to style them.
One of the best parts about a chunky sweater is how versatile it can be, blending comfort with a range of aesthetics. Besides the fact that you can hide a bunch of layers under it if the weather is COLD.
Inspired by the look in this photo, I’ve put together three unique ways to style a chunky sweater that anyone can replicate—each option showcases a different approach to styling this wardrobe hero.
Insider tip: When I say how to style a chunky sweater, you can also go back to 10 years ago when the original crew styled this same idea.
As much as I love my site, Jodie’s Touch of Style, I really enjoy putting together my daily emails. I consider my emails an extension of my blog that is chocked full of positive inspiration that one friend calls a “Variety Show.”
I include articles, videos, and posts that strike my fancy and since I have no siblings to share with, I share with you.
1. Chunky Sweater with Tulle Skirt
One of the most charming ways to wear a chunky sweater is by pairing it with something unexpected, like a tulle skirt. The juxtaposition of a rugged, oversized knit with something soft and delicate creates an eye-catching combination that’s both fun and chic.
Why it Works: A chunky sweater paired with a tulle skirt gives off an effortless, whimsical vibe. The thick, cozy texture of the sweater plays perfectly against the airy, lightweight nature of tulle.
How I Styled It:
- Add Some Feminine Details: This look is all about blending the masculine with the feminine, so I added some feminine accessories with these heart earrings.
- Choose Your Footwear: There are a ton of options that would work for your footwear. Mary Janes are all the rage right now, and if you need extra warmth, wear them with knee socks. I chose these tall boots to match the skirt.
- Consider the Length: If you didn’t love the proportions in the original Pinterest photo, then try a shorter tulle skirt. This way, you achieve that body proportion that I’ve compared in the past.
2. Chunky Sweater with Modern Jeans
The chunky sweater and high-waisted jeans combination is one of those timeless pairings that always looks good. Back in the day, you might have paired this chunky sweater with skinny jeans (and I did that years ago with this exact same sweater).
But now you can try some other styles of denim. I opted for straight-leg jeans yet the two-tone makes them much more interesting.
Why it Works: Chunky sweaters can be quite bulky, and since we are ignoring the idea that bulky is bad, you want to add a modern vibe with fun or trendy jeans.
How I Styled It:
- Choose Bold Lipstick: A chunky sweater and jeans look is a bit of a blank canvas, so make sure you have some color to your face with a bold lippie.
- Footwear Matters: The great thing about this outfit is that it works with almost any type of shoe. I wore ankle boots, but sneakers would also be fabulous.
- Asymmetrical: I didn’t create this on purpose, but by placing my hand in my jeans pocket, I created an asymmetrical hemline that can offset the bulk.
3. Chunky Sweater with a Slip Dress
A chunky sweater layered over a slip dress is a perfect example of mixing cozy with sleek, creating an outfit that’s relaxed yet elevated a touch. This combination can look incredibly high-fashion without much effort, and it’s an excellent way to repurpose your summer slip dresses for the cooler months.
I wore this same slip dress in the summer months in many different ways.
Why it Works: The slip dress adds a hint of glam and contrast to the bulky sweater, giving you a dichotomy of textures.
If you don’t love the proportions of this look, the dress could be belted under the sweater and pulled up to make the dress shorter.
How I Styled It:
- Add Fabulous Footwear: This look is perfect for cold weather, so don’t be afraid to layer with tights and tall boots for added warmth. I went with these silver tall boots which make the outfit shine.
- Add a Long Necklace: To really elevate this look, finish it with a long necklace. This silver one mirrors the silver of the boots and adds a focal point to the look.
- Play with Proportion: When layering a chunky sweater over a slip dress, consider where the sweater hits your body. If it’s a longer sweater, you might want to add a belt around your waist to define your shape. Alternatively, you can opt for a cropped chunky sweater that hits right at the hips. Or as I said previously, shorten the dress under the sweater.
Other Ideas for How To Style a Chunky Sweater
Chunky sweaters can sometimes feel overwhelming due to their size and texture, so here are a few additional tips to keep in mind:
- Experiment with Layering: Chunky sweaters make excellent layering pieces. I’ve experimented with many different styling ideas with one of my hand-knit chunky sweaters in the past.
- Play with Textures: Don’t be afraid to mix textures! Chunky knits pair beautifully with everything from leather to lace, giving your outfit more visual interest and depth.
- Try the Normal Guidelines & Then Other Ways: While I believe in breaking the rules at times, it can be helpful to go by the fashion guidelines we grew up with. Just like the time, I showcased an oversized sweater. Start with baby steps and then try the unexpected options.
The Appeal of a Chunky Sweater
There’s a reason chunky sweaters are a cold-weather staple—they’re versatile and comfortable, and they effortlessly blend warmth with style. While they’re ideal for layering, they’re also an easy way to make a statement in any outfit. Whether you’re aiming for something cozy and casual or chic and polished, a chunky sweater has the power to transform your look while keeping you snug.
In fashion, it’s all about experimenting and finding what makes you feel your best. Don’t be afraid to mix and match pieces you might not usually pair together; sometimes, the most unexpected combinations result in the most stylish outfits. So, grab your favorite chunky sweater, try out these styling ideas, and make it your own!
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