From cold winter days through to cool summer nights, chunky wool cardigans are a wardrobe staple, serving as a relaxed yet stylish layer. The chunky knit is not the sort of cardigan you simply take with you in case you need it; a quality, chunky knit cardigan is a piece worthy of styling your entire ensemble around. This guide will show you exactly how to make your chunky knit the main event.
Consider this your ultimate guide to styling a chunky knit cardigan for every occasion, from business casual office-wear to contemporary wedding attire, and everything in between.
Choosing Quality Without Compromise
Finding the best chunky knit cardigan for optimum comfort, warmth and style takes some thought and care, but when done well, it will become a standout item in any capsule wardrobe. This is often a go-to piece during colder months, but British weather affords us the privilege of being able to wear our chunkiest knits all year round.
To ensure you find a piece that fits well and retains its softness and shape over time, pay attention to the wool type first and foremost as this will determine how high-quality and long-lasting your garment is. The quality of the wool fibre matters, and at John Smedley, all of our chunky knits are crafted with superfine micron fibres, including in our Eco Cashmere and Extra Fine Merino Wool ranges.
Each fibre has different properties that make it special. For example, merino wool fibres offer warmth due to the natural crimp that traps pockets of air to provide insulation, while also promoting breathability and temperature regulation throughout the seasons. Its extreme softness and natural hypoallergenic properties make it suitable for sensitive skin. Cashmere is also exceptionally soft, and thought to be three times more insulating than sheep’s wool, which is why our Eco Cashmere range combines 50% recycled cashmere with 50% merino wool for the best of both wool types.
Once decided on wool type, ensure the fit is right for you, taking into account the layers you may want to wear underneath. It can be helpful to choose colours that are neutral or complement the rest of your wardrobe to maximise wearability. All of our chunky knit garments are crafted by some of the world’s finest artisans, using quality-driven, responsible knitting practices. Each piece is designed to become a lasting wardrobe staple, offering timeless style and durability for years to come.
What To Pair With Your Chunky Knit Cardigan
This piece is extremely versatile and layerable. For more casual days, try pairing your chunky knit cardigan with a classic white t-shirt or another plain coloured t-shirt that complements the tones of the knitwear. Denim jeans are a versatile choice for achieving a relaxed, effortless look. Opt for lighter or distressed denim for a laid-back style, or go with darker or black jeans for a slightly more polished feel, perfect for occasions that call for a touch of casual sophistication. For a polished alternative to jeans, consider tailored chinos.
White trainers with minimal or no logos are perfect for a casual, laid-back look. To elevate your outfit, swap them for smart footwear like Chelsea boots, which pair effortlessly with a chunky knit cardigan. Play around with different necklines that adapt well to layering, such as a classic V-neck T-shirt, or add a button-up shirt for the office.
If you plan on wearing your chunky knit to a wedding or another special occasion, opt for smart trousers, polished leather boots or brogues, and refine the look with a knitted scarf to match.
How To Dress Your Chunky Knit Cardigan Up Or Down
Some say the chunkier the knit, the more casual the look, but that’s a myth. While this piece may not suffice at a black tie event, for the most part you can dress this wardrobe staple up or down, simply by paying attention to a few rules.
Opting for a chunky knit cardigan in more formal situations — like a casual wedding, a birthday party or a meeting — requires style choices that will balance out the look, such as skinnier, tailored trousers that will counteract the oversized knit on top. For more casual contexts, choose relaxed-fitting jeans or chinos instead.
No outfit is complete without accessories, and even a single, well-chosen piece can transform your style. A classic belt or watch adds a refined touch, but keep it understated — simplicity is key, especially when layering multiple garments.
The Versatility Of The Chunky Knit Cardigan
Thought the chunky knit cardigan was a winter exclusive? Think again. It’s time to take this evergreen piece out of storage for spring and summer too. The beauty of the often-tumultuous British weather is that there are always chillier days offering the kind of temperatures your chunky knits were made for. By opting for a heavier gauge style of cardigan, you may even be able to rely on your luxury knitwear ensemble as a day-to-dark piece and forgo a jacket, if the rain allows.
A quality chunky knit will be timeless and versatile, and – if cared for well – will last a long time. If you want to learn more about the best ways to look after your knitwear for longevity, you will find helpful advice in our guides to washing and caring for cashmere, and merino wool care.
A piece of John Smedley luxury men’s knitwear is an investment in your personal style, and the classic chunky knit can become a staple when you know how to wear it, where to wear it, and what to wear it with.