How to Wear: Chunky Knits

Models make it look so easy, but is this actually a wearable trend? Image via Pinterest.

They’ve been showing up on the runways and in the pages of our favorite magazines, but if you live in reality, and are a mom, it can be hard to figure out how to navigate the proportions of these new, chunky sweaters. A look that seems to circulate every 15-20 years, the style is squarely back in vogue, and while the wrong one can make you appear haplessly lumpy and unkempt, there are plenty of options out this season that will let you rock the trend right.

Keep things streamlined to avoid extra bulk — especially if you have broad shoulders or a thicker middle. The chunkiest part of the sweater is in the sleeves, which works to make your torso look extra-narrow. And at this short length, you’ll avoid any question about the waist. I love how they’ve tucked just a few inches of the front of the sweater into her jeans to avoid that awkward bump-over-belt thing. The volume of the cable knit makes this style chunky enough to fit the trend, but the piece itself is pretty fitted, and extra-flattering. Highlands Cable Sweater, $148, Garnet Hill.

Create some contrast and let your figure show through the voluminous top layer with this knit from Elie Tahari. Clearly, we’re not suggesting you style it as shown with nothing underneath (though that would get plenty of attention, too!) but the slouchy silk pant and great shoes are a good start here. Layer a contrasting color tank or long sleeve underneath (white works well, but you could do a bright, too!) and let the compliments pile up. Violet Sweater by , $498.

Wrap yourself up in the comfort of Eileen Fisher’s many “sublime knits.” This one, plucked from right off their homepage, is a clear win for moms everywhere. It’s essentially as comfortable as leaving the house in a blanket with sleeves, but despite the thick, supple wool, it’s cut high in the front to reveal your shape. Plus, the cut of the sleeves give it enough balance to make it clear you’re not in a muumuu. Check out the whole collection here — there’s not a single one we don’t love.

Another really smart cheat is to play up the volume in the neck and keep everything else fitted and smooth. This stunning cashmere option even features vented details at the shoulder and along the sides for a little dose of sexy. The oversized, draped cowl neck brings plenty of trend-right drama to the look without adding unwanted bulk to your midsection. August Cashmere (hand knit!) sweater, now on sale from $495 to $346, Bloomingdales.