Chunky is Chic

As the weather gets colder, clothes get heavy, bulky, and a bit chunky. The word chunky hardly sounds chic or stylish when it’s paired with fashion items, but it is. Take, for instance, the chunky sweater.

Chunky sweaters are a sweater style option just about every year, but this season there are several other fashion trends that work with this item to create cool outfits. Fashion designers never cease to amaze me with the color combos and textures that make this sweater style and other old favorites seem brand new.

I can be just as self-conscious as the next person. I try not to call attention to or add to my size, but I think these oversized and sometimes larger-than-life sweaters are a much more fun option to ward off the cold for as long as I can. My sweater collection consists mostly of flatter knits, but I usually keep one or two of these cool sweaters in my fall/winter wardrobe.

Aside from the ultra-slim fashionista, this type of sweater can be a little intimidating, but no matter what your size and shape, odds are no one sees the extra pounds they add but you because they really aren’t there. Of course, there are colors and patterns that are more flattering than others for certain folks, so definitely take that into consideration. Don’t let the fear of adding pounds let you pass on one of these cozy sweaters. Just check out darker shades, patterns, and prints with flattering characteristics. Another idea is to make sure you accent another part of your body, like your legs or waist, with a cool belt.

Try pairing your chunky sweaters with a pair of leggings or jodhpurs and a sleek pair of over-the-knee boots. Or wear one of this season’s ladylike, slim-fitting skirts in a decorative fabric or solid with a menswear-looking sweater.

Don’t forget this item when you’re mixing your prints; treat it like you would any other patterned garment. You can always go classic with solids, and simply pair your chunky sweater with your favorite pair of jeans, shorts, or trousers.

If you opt for a bold, patterned, chunky sweater, you don’t want to take away attention from it, so my suggestion is to go easy on the accessories.