6 Ways to Rock a Chunky Cardigan in 2022 (& 1 to Skip for Now)

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Puddle pants,cowboy bootsandleather jacketsmay be topfall trendsfor the moment, but there’s one cool-weather staple that surpasses them all in terms of comfort and staying power:the chunky cardigan. These cozy, oversize knits are the kind we reach for year after year to layer over everything from silky date night minidresses to basic T-shirts with jeans and even button-ups and suit trousers. But what’s the best way to wear a chunky cardigan in 2022? We’re glad you asked. Here are six super stylish, fashion forward outfits we can’t wait to wear ASAP, plus one ensemble we’re avoiding for the time being.

12 On-Trend Ways to Wear Leather Pants (Plus One Look to Definitely Avoid)


How to wear a chunky cardigan A frame
瓦伦蒂娜Frugiuele /盖蒂的形象

1. Style Your Cardigans in a Fresh, New Way

ICYMI: The A-Frame shirt styling trick was a微趋势我们发现在Septemb纽约时装周期间er, but it isn’t exclusive to button-downs: As a seasonal shift, try buttoning only the top few (or top one, if you’re feeling bold) clasp of your cardigan as a cheeky, sexy twist on the usual coverage of a chunky cardigan. If showing a lot of skin is not your thing but you still want to rock the trend, throw onhigh-waist jeansor a long maxi skirt for more coverage.

Shop similar styles:Acne Studios($560);Everlanecardigan($230);Bloomingdale’s cardigan($239; $167);GAP($70)

How to wear a chunky cardigan Preppy Twists
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2. Look for Preppy Twists on Basic Knits

No matter the season, we love a Blair Waldorf moment, but there’s a way to embrace thePlazacoretrend without feeling like you’re trying to attend Constance Billard. For a smart ‘fit, gravitate towards neutral-colored, woven cardigans with smallpearlor jewel details along the neckline to draw the eye towards the decolletage and face. Since the cardigan speaks for itself, you can take it easy on accessories. Finish the look off with a mini skirt and tall boots orballet flats, instead of Chelsea boots.

Shop similar styles:Simone Rocha($970);Alice & Oliva($595);BA&SH($380);Sleeper($220);ASTR THE LABEL($98);Amazon($37)

How to wear a chunky cardigan Statement Sweater
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3. Spice Up a Neutral Fit with a Statement Sweater

The trendiest looks right now all have one thing in common: a duality of comfort and pizazz. Combine a statement-makingcropped cardiwith your favorite cream-colored jeans and monochromatic sneakers (or boots) and what might’ve been a rather basic getup is now a head-turning outfit practically screaming for a photo op. Opt for palette popping colors and interesting design details to really embrace this look. If you’re feeling emboldened, crank it up a notch with achunky chain necklaceto really draw the eye upwards.

Shop similar styles:Hope Macaulay($648);Pilcro($168);Etsy Strawberry Crop($180; $90);Etsy Rose Knit($85)

How to wear a chunky cardigan Maxi Knit Cardigan Set
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4. Wear a Maxi Knit Cardigan Set

Sweater sets of any and all varieties were one of the biggest trends last fall and winter, and they aren’t going anywhere anytime soon. We’re fully embracing long, robe-like cardigans with coordinating knit pants, which in turn pair beautifully with thecowboy bootswe’ve been seeing everywhere lately. Coincidence? We think not.

Shop similar styles:Naked Cashmere(275美元);Anthropologie($180);L’Agence($360; $176);Lulus($89);Forever 21($45; $31);ASOS($45; $27)

How to wear a chunky cardigan Layering
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5. Play Around with Layering

We’re calling it: Slim-fit crewneck sweaters are officially taking the place of plain white T-shirts this winter. Not only are they comfier than basic tees, but the thickness of a sweater underneath another sweater will help you stay warm and prepared for any change in temp.

Shop similar styles:Jenni Kayne($375);Reformation($198);Something Navy($175);Nordstrom($85)

How to wear a chunky cardigan Duster as a Dress
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6. Wear a Wrap Cardigan Duster as a Dress

Sweaters than can double as robes (and vice versa) are an important wardrobe staple. But we love this posh twist on such a comfy piece. You can easily wear it to work and look sharp for your presentation (with tights underneath if you work in a more buttoned-up environment) yet feel oh-so cozy and comfortable at the same time. Add a few layered necklaces, a thin belt (if it doesn’t have one already) and some pumps orpointy-toe ankle bootsand you’re suddenly ready for dinner out on the town.

Shop similar styles:Reformation($298);Revolve($192);Banana Republic($130; $78)

How to wear a chunky cardigan Skip Pairing Cardigans with Leggings
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Skip: Pairing Cardigans with Leggings

We admit this cozy combo is a great option to throw on for a stay-at-home date night or quick errand run, but in 2022 and 2023, there are so many more modern options. Go with either a mini skirt or a slouchy jean to strike a more stylish balance.