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
102 Comments
All of your looks are great. I especially love your new one. Stripes & plaid combo is great.
Kara Aragon
http://www.thekaragon.com
This is honestly such a great blog post topic idea! I 100% agree with your tips, especially #3 and #4! Just like you I tend to stick to longer cardigans and the thought of “saving” your waist had me cracking up because it’s so true!
xo MK
http://www.goldhattedlover.com
Giiiirl you could NEVER look frumpy! Absolutely love this outfit, particularly with the plaid blanket scarf and gorgeous Gucci GG Marmont bag. Have a fabulous weekend!
Gabrielle | A Glass Of Ice x
Great post, I adore oversized cardigans, so comfy and snuggly!
x Annabelle
travelsandtea.com
Thanks for sharing. The cardigan looks so amazing on you!
Daniel x
The Daniel Originals | Instagram: danielpoonvignez
Great suggestions Amy. I agree that mid-thigh cardigans are better than anything.
http://www.knowingandsharing.com
These are great tips and photos! Love the stars cardigan, that is a fab find!
http://www.busyandfab.com
Lovely cardigan there. Love the plaid scarf too!
Jessica | notjessfashion.com
Your cardi looks so cosy and I love the blanket scarf with it! 🙂 So strange seeing you start to layer up when I just bought a bunch of shorts for our upcoming summer, haha!
I only have a couple long cardigans like this, it’s definitely something I need practice with styling, but so that I can avoid looking stumpy rather than frumpy, haha! Sometimes I feel they make me look shorter than I am!
Hope you are having a lovely weekend 🙂
Away From The Blue Blog
This are great tips on wearing cardigans… I love wearing cardigans and a bit picky when buying one because I consider the look when wearing it. Its good to know helpful points to consider when i buy one next time.
(◕‿◕✿) EmoteraGoddess.com | Instagram | Bloglovin
Great tips! I agree, I like longer cardigans because they make your silhouette look longer and don’t add an extra layer that ends right at the widest part of your body!
I think cardigans are perfect for the fall-winter season and I just loveeee how you styled the second to last look.
xo | Cindy Elena
http://www.boringclothes.com
The looks are really fantastic! I love these oversized cardigans!!
♘ http://www.sugarpopfashion.com ♘
I love these tips! I love how you paired the over sized cardigan with the scarf, it looks so pretty.
These tips are so helpful, and I’m loving this oversized cardigan with the plaid scarf…very beautiful!
http://roadesque.com
http://ourruins.com
I absolutely love this outfit! it looks perfect paired with the scarf!
Liz
http://www.lizzieinlace.com
I love oversized cardi’s more than anything and that white blouse/white boots looks may be one of my all-time faves of yours!
District of Chic
Super cute looks! And def a staple of minds as well!
-L.
LenaRevealed.com
These are great ideas! I love to match it with high waisted pants to give the look some structure. And love your white cardigan, it looks so cozy! Xx
http://www.thefashionfolks.com
These are great tips! I love wearing blanket scarves during the winter months and you are right they can be frumpy! Love your scarf!
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