As much as I love dresses, jeans and knitwear is really my go-to uniform for winter. I feel the cold, so I find this combination ticks all the boxes; simple, comfortable, warm and one which I can dress up or down depending on the occasion. For a more polished look I like pairing jeans and knits with heels and statement earrings – as I have here. However, this look works equally well with white sneakers, heeled boots or ballet flats for a casual off-duty look. For work, I often like to substitute jeans for tailored pants to bring it into line with office casual.
I found this brown woollen knit in my local op shop earlier this year and it’s been a piece which I’ve worn a lot over the past few months. I particularly like the colour. Brown isn’t a colour I have a lot of in my wardrobe but I really like how it’s a softer, warmer tone than my usual white and black staples but still goes with so many other items in my wardrobe.
When I found this piece I wasn’t initially sure it would work for me as it was a few sizes too big. As much as I love oversized knits, it’s a look I’ve sometimes found difficult to pull off because I’m petite and so too much fabric can swap me. However, I really liked the way this one sat on me and it’s proof that, when it comes to op shopping, it can be worth trying on something even if it’s not in your size. If you also struggle with incorporating oversized knitwear into your wardrobe here’s a few tips below which I’ve found have helped me when styling it.
1. Accentuate the sleeves
Rolling the sleeve cuffs over a few times or pushing them up so that they sit about one third of the way up your forearm is a great way to give an oversized knit the illusion of more shape and definition. I find that if the arms appear to fit well you can get away with a looser, boxier fit in the body of the garment.
2. Choose fitted or tailored clothing as a counter point
Pairing an oversized knit (whether tucked or untucked) with form fitting or tailored bottoms helps to balance out the outfit. The fitted garment gives the outfit structure, accentuating your shape, while the oversized knit acts as a counter point creating interest with a soft silhouette.
3. Cinch the waist
Styling an oversized knit with a belt, high waisted pants or skirts (particularly if you want to style an oversized knit with looser garments) can be a great way create an hour glass effect.
