The Oversized Sweater

© ASOS

Bigger is better for certain things – jumbo shrimp, Venti lattes, and this season’s too-big-for-you knits come to mind. Oversized shapes have been working their way back into fashion from the depths of our 1980s nightmares in a fresh and sophisticated way that brings this dated look up to speed. And with the incredible, cooler weather we’ve been experiencing lately, an oversize sweater has a place in the closet of every modern Miamian.

We witnessed the rebirth of this trend in the spring, when bigger sweaters began to infiltrate the runways of such diverse designers as Michael Kors, Isabel Marant, and Acne. Oversized toppers were shown with monochromatic shorts and tees, mini skirts, matching socks, and even slouchy suede boots. D&G carried the trend into fall with their primary stripes and pencil skirts; loose knits were seen again at Acne in cobalt and caramel – the oversized sweater has kind of become a staple of the cult brand’s aesthetic.

© Acne, Whit, DKNY, Free People, Full CircleSo it should come as no surprise that our first pick is the gold-tone Zorah Oversized Wool Sweater from Acne; this loose boat-neck gets even cooler when you notice the precise slice cut up the back. Pair the camel color with brights for an electric, eclectic ensemble – a snug pencil skirt in fuchsia, or aqua blue skinny jeans. Dress up the open neck with your most outrageous jewelry, or play it minimal with a sleek pair of cropped pants, pumps, and a loud lipstick as your only accessory.

A classic striped sweater takes on a brand new feeling when you enlarge the silhouette, as with the Whit Beau Striped Cashmere Sweater. Challenge this piece’s inherent sportiness by pairing it with a ladylike skirt and candy-colored patent leather pumps, or play it cool with some solid leggings and high-top sneakers.

If you’re looking for big and cozy, look for this DKNY Oversized V Neck Sweater. We absolutely love the full, fluid shape and goes-with-everything neutral shade. Team it with your skinniest pants and pointy flats for sophisticated austerity; or try it with a long, slim skirt, ankle boots, and an armload of mismatched bangles or glamorous cuff bracelets for a different vibe.

A slightly-shrunken option for those not ready to supersize their sweaters is the cropped, boxy stylings of the Waffle Knit Sweater by Free People. The jewel-toned teal is a beautiful, autumnal color for the season – we also love the chunky, intricate knitted pattern. Make an effortless outfit with this sweater, a mini skirt, tights and boots for a glamorous/grungy throwback, or play it straight by topping off preppy cords and oxfords.

Black sweaters are a definite "do" – there’s no simpler way to pull together a chic look in a pinch. We love the cool, longer-in-the-back shape of this Full Circle Drape Back Cocoon Knit Sweater. Slightly sheer, you can layer this piece over matching black tees, tanks, or even turtlenecks if the weather takes a sudden drop. Add slim black pants and patent leather loafers for an intriguing outfit that plays well with shapes and proportion.

Image at top is ASOS Sweater in Horizontal Color Block.

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