I asked for topics people would like covered on the blog, and one of them was how to wear an oversized cardigan without looking frumpy. Such a good idea! Oversized cardigans are all the rage lately. I can see why. They are cozy and easy layers. Here’s the thing, they can be unflattering. Below are some general guidelines I stick to when wearing them.
How to Wear an Oversized Cardigan without Looking Frumpy (keep reading for more examples below as well)
- Consider the weight of the cardigan when you buy it. Look for a nice, heavy material but also one that isn’t overly “puffy” if you know what I mean. Puffy weight sweaters = puffy appearance
- Layer a top underneath that fits nicely. Think a fitted t-shirt as I have done in this post, a cami, a thin blouse. I.e. do not add a thick weight, bulky top underneath. Bulky top below = bulk
- Consider wearing a higher waist pant/jean and tucking your top in to visually create/save your waist line. Having a waist below all that material is a good thing!
- Personally, I like oversized cardigans that hit mid-thigh or below. I find ones that hit closer to the hip area just draw attention to and add bulk to, well, my hip area. Nobody wants that!
Shop Great Cardigans
Shop Great Layering Pieces
Previous Examples of How to Wear an Oversized Cardigan without Looking Frumpy
Star Cardigan Post Here
Cream Cardigan & Cami Post Here
Black Long Cardigan Post Here
Cream on Cream Post Here
Fringe Cardigan Post Here
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71 Comments
Pretty sure you don’t need to worry about covering your bum at any time. You look drop-dead gorgeous in everything you put on! I think the comments about the ripped jeans sound a bit mean. I don’t wear them, because I feel I’m too old (60+) to look ragged. But on younger women, they’re fine. My daughters, who are mid-30s, wear them and look trendy, not sloppy. Thanks for the information and photos. Even we old(er!) women want to look fresh.
Torn jeans should be banned. They do not look elegant. They look like the person wearing them came from the poor house. Only in America would people pay for holes!
These jeans look cheap and stupid with a sweater
Ripped jeans should be tasteful not like bombs went off at the knee cap
I agree with you Lizzy. The out fit looked well up together until you got to the jeans. Sorry, holy jeans are not fashionable.
I didn’t see any oversized cardigans, but I saw long , and I believe that is a big difference.
So basically, just be really skinny with your oversized cardigan.????
lol. i was thinking the same thing Nico
but thank you Amy these are great, i guess alittle tweek here and there to accomodate the few sizes bigger
Hi! I sent a reply over email, but I wanted to post it here too. I don’t think the huge, chunky cardigans do anyone any favors. I think you can buy thicker ones that are longer (i.e. don’t hit at your hip) and wear thinner, tucked in items below them with high waisted pants as I mention. A thicker weight, longer cardigan is still and oversized one in my opinion. 🙂 Those are the style I am featuring here and what I have found to be the most flattering. I hope that helps!!
Hi! I just found your blog on Pinterest and I love it!! I have one question. How do you wear those cute blanket scarves without looking bulky? What’s your secret?!?
Thanks for some great inspiration!
Hi! I’m new to your blog, just clicked over from Pinterest because the title of this post caught my eye! Couldn’t agree more with all your tips! I love these practical posts on how to make trends work, I’ll definitely be back!
Oh my gosh, thank you so much for taking the time to leave a comment. You totally made my day! So glad you found this helpful!