Chunky Cardigans

A chunky cardigan is the sweater that behaves like a jacket. It goes on over a tee, a dress or a button down, it keeps you warm indoors and out, and it gives an outfit that lived in, relaxed feeling that is hard to fake any other way. What sets a good one apart is the knit. Look for a thick, even stitch with some structure, whether that is a cable, a rib or a soft brushed finish, so the cardigan holds its shape and does not stretch out after a few wears. Fit and length change the mood. A cropped, boxy cardigan works with high waisted trousers, a hip length one is the most flexible, and a long open style adds drama over slim layers. Buttons and closures matter too. Chunky buttons feel classic, while an open front is easier to layer. Wool blends, mohair and cotton knits all work well, and neutral shades like grey, oatmeal, brown and cream go with almost everything. In the first grid I started with the Good American Shrunken Cable, the House of Sunny Cable Peggy and the Lisa Says Gah Alma, plus the Madewell Sophia in argyle, so there is a cardigan for every kind of weekend.

Wear a cardigan the way you would wear a light jacket. Over a white tee and wide leg jeans it looks easy and modern, and over a slip dress it softens the outfit and adds warmth. Buttoned up and worn alone, a fitted one becomes a knit top, which is a good trick for the office when paired with tailored trousers. A long open cardigan over slim leggings and boots is the ultimate comfortable weekend uniform. Try a belt to define the waist on a bigger style, or roll the sleeves for a looser feel. Keep your accessories simple, since the knit already brings plenty of texture. To keep your cardigan in good shape, fold it flat instead of hanging it, wash it gently by hand or on a wool cycle, and dry it flat. A little care means the stitches stay crisp and the shape stays true for many seasons.

The second grid goes a step richer, with the White & Warren merino, the FRAME Fleck, the Jenni Kayne Timber in a bordeaux stripe and the Lisa Yang Wilona in cashmere.

Alanui, Moncler and Polo Ralph Lauren add thick cardigans in cable and wool. A slim base layer keeps the bulk from taking over.

Alex Mill, Free People and Max Mara fill out the range, from a chunky Nico knit to a pinstriped cotton cardigan, with Khaite, The Row and Toteme at the dressier end. Pick the length by what you wear underneath.

I think a chunky cardigan is the most useful sweater to own because it makes so many outfits feel finished. The choice comes down to fit and fabric. Pick something that feels warm and substantial, but not so heavy that it drags on your shoulders. A neutral color is the smartest first purchase, and you can add a richer shade later. If you are unsure, choose the one that feels best when you cross your arms and reach forward, since comfort is the whole idea. Wear it constantly and it will quickly earn its place as a staple of your cold weather closet. If you want to keep browsing, I also put together Designer Cardigans and Bandana Sweater.