Chunky Knit Shrugs: How to Style the Cozy Knit Trend

The Comeback of the Chunky Knit Shrug

Chunky knit shrugs have been making a major comeback in fashion recently. These cozy, oversized cardigans and shrugs were hugely popular in the 90s, and now they're back again in a big way.

The History of the Chunky Knit Shrug

Chunky knit shrugs first rose to popularity in the 1980s and 90s. The oversized silhouette was a defining aspect of '80s fashion. In the 90s, knitwear became even more prominent. With pop stars like Britney Spears and Christina Aguilera wearing slouchy knits, chunky cardigans and shrugs were a wardrobe staple.

In the 2000s, tight and low-rise clothing came into fashion. Chunky knits took a back seat as fitted tops and layers became more popular. But in the 2010s, '90s fashion began making a comeback. By the mid 2010s, chunky cardigans were appearing again in stores and on fashion blogs.

Why Chunky Knit Shrugs are Trending Again

There are several reasons why chunky knit shrugs have become popular again:

• 90s nostalgia - Millennials who grew up in the 90s are now driving fashion trends. Oversized and slouchy fits are back in style.
• Emphasis on comfort - With athleisure and lounge clothing dominating, comfort is key. Cozy knits fit the comfy aesthetic.
• Sustainability and slow fashion - Knitwear is long-lasting. Buying quality natural fibers promotes sustainability.
• Versatility - Chunky shrugs pair well with dresses, jeans, leggings, and more. They work for many styles.
• Cold weather - Knits provide warmth and comfort during colder months.

How to Style a Chunky Knit Shrug

One of the best things about chunky knit shrugs is how versatile they are. Here are some tips for styling a chunky shrug:

• Pair it with a slip dress or spaghetti strap tank for a girly, '90s vibe.
• Throw it on over jeans and a t-shirt for a casual weekend look.
• Belt it over a dress to define your waist.
• Layer it over a turtleneck with leggings for cold weather.
• Wear it open and loose over bike shorts and a crop top.
• Drape it around your shoulders like a cape over a cami and trousers.

Chunky knit shrugs look great belted, open and loose, or layered over other pieces. Have fun playing with different textures and colors to create unique outfits.

Tips for Buying a Chunky Knit Shrug

When shopping for a chunky knit shrug, keep these tips in mind:

• Choose natural fibers - Look for knits made of wool, cotton, alpaca, or cashmere blends. They'll last longer and be more breathable.
• Pay attention to gauge - The gauge or thickness of the knit determines how oversized it looks. Choose your desired fit.
• Try it on - Make sure to try cardigans on for fit, especially across the shoulders and arms.
• Look for details - Fun details like side slits, pockets, belts, or buttons add visual interest.
• Find good deals - Check secondhand and thrift stores, or wait for end of season sales.

Invest in a quality chunky knit shrug that suits your style and wardrobe needs. With a little bit of care, it'll last for many seasons to come!

Elevated Ways to Wear a Chunky Knit Shrug

While a chunky knit shrug is the perfect cozy casual piece, it can also be styled in more elevated, fashion-forward ways. Here are some tips for making your shrug look pulled together and chic:

• Pair with leather or faux leather pants for an edgy vibe.
• Belt it over a slip skirt and add heels for evening.
• Drape dramatically over one shoulder à la the 80s.
• Choose a cropped length shrug and style high-waisted.
• Opt for a shrunken fit and wear open over a dress.
• Look for interesting details like side slits or an asymmetrical hem.
• Layer chunky jewelry, like pendant necklaces, over a v-neck shrug.

There are so many ways to wear a chunky knit shrug for different occasions. Dress it up with formal trousers, feminine accents, or edgy accessories. The oversized knit cardigan is the perfect piece to polish off chic seasonal outfits.

Trendy Ways to Style a Chunky Knit Shrug

For the most on-trend ways to wear your cozy chunky shrug, look to these stylish outfit ideas:

• Oversized + leggings - For an influencer-approved look, opt for an extra large shrug over leggings.
• Slouchy + bike shorts - Let your chunky knit hang open and loose over sporty bike shorts.
• Cropped + low rise jeans - A cropped cardigan looks so Y2K with flared low-rise denim.
• Shrunken + mini skirt - Mimic tiny cardigans from the 90s with a short fitted shrug and mini.
• Textured tights - Make a statement by layering colorful or patterned tights under your shrug.
• Sneakers - Ground your look with casual sneakers like Air Force 1s.

Search Instagram or Pinterest for the latest shrug outfit ideas from top influencers. Play with proportion and texture to make your chunky knit feel modern.

FAQs

What is the difference between a cardigan and a shrug?

A cardigan is a long, fitted knitted sweater that usually buttons down the front. A shrug is a short, loose knitted sweater that stops at the waist or hips and is open in the front.

How do you wash a chunky knit shrug?

Hand washing is best to prevent stretching out the fibers. Use cool water and a gentle detergent. Lay flat to dry. You can also wash in the machine on a delicate cycle in a wash bag.

What do you wear under a chunky knit shrug?

A camisole, tank top, or lightweight long sleeve are good options. You can also layer it over a dress or top without an underlayer. Wearing another shirt underneath will give you more versatility in how you style the shrug.

What shoes do you wear with an oversized knit shrug?

Chunky knits pair well with casual footwear like sneakers, flats, boots, or slip-on sandals. For more dressed up outfits, try pairing with heels, wedges, or dressy loafers.

What are chunky knit shrugs made out of?

Common fibers include wool, cotton, synthetic blends, alpaca, llama wool, mohair, and acrylic. Wool and cotton blends are popular for their warmth, comfort, and durability.

FAQs

How do you dress up a chunky knit shrug?

Try wearing it belted over a slip dress with heels or draped over one shoulder with a cami and trousers. Add a pendant necklace or opt for a cropped length. Feminine or edgy details will dress up a casual chunky shrug.

What body type looks best in an oversized shrug?

Oversized shrugs are versatile and flattering for all body types. Curvy figures can belt it to define their shape. Petite frames can opt for a cropped length. Tall or slender builds suit the exaggerated proportions well.

Are chunky knit shrugs in style for 2022?

Yes, chunky knit shrugs are still very on trend for 2022 fashion. The oversized silhouette and cozy knits are perfect for the casual, comfort-first aesthetic that’s popular right now.

Where can you buy affordable chunky knit shrugs?

Check stores like H&M, Forever21, ASOS, and Target for budget-friendly options. Amazon also carries a wide selection. Thrift and consignment shops often have quality knit shrugs for less.

What tops look cute under a loose knit shrug?

Try a lace bralette or cami, silk tank, graphic tee, strappy top, baby tee, or crochet halter. Any fitted, feminine, or stylish blouse or tee will pair nicely under a slouchy, open shrug.