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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81 Comments
I’m 63 although a young and hip 63. I wear ripped jeans now and again. I always keep the food more fitted with simple jewelry. I always hit the fashion mark.
T
Sorry, I meant top not food. Darn auto correct
I bet you look amazing in them!! Everyone is allowed to wear whatever style of jeans they like best. 🙂
be 6 ft tall and weigh 9 stone to really carry off a cardigan.
I couldn’t get past the knobby knees sticking out of the 2 holes to even notice the cardigans. Dark jeans and holes don’t look right anyway. The jeans should be lighter and looked lived in in order to pull off such a look. Even then, having sharp knee caps sticking out puts the emphasis of the outfit on the knees. Dark jeans that look pristine otherwise just don’t look right with 2 matching holes. Not flattering for the model.
I think the jeans show how thIs latest trend can look hip . Ripped jeans may not be in everyone’s wardrobe, but this is a great look and she pulled it all together. You can substitute a lighter pair of unripped jeans and that would look cool too!
Thank you so much, Carol! I appreciate your kind comment. You can definitely wear substitute your preferred jean style.
I TOTALLY agree with YOU !
I thought razor cuts were bad yrs ago, prefer that over THIS.😯
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!
Totally agree. The outfits would be quite elegant without those holes on the pants.
P. S: My comment here is for the outfit only. The model, in the other hand, is exceptional!
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 couldn’t get past the knobby knees sticking out of the 2 holes to even notice the cardigans. Dark jeans and holes don’t look right anyway. The jeans should be lighter and looked lived in in order to pull off such a look. Even then, having sharp knee caps sticking out puts the emphasis of the outfit on the knees. Dark jeans that look pristine otherwise just don’t look right with 2 matching holes. Not flattering for the model.
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!