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Get a leg up on Fall with these chubby knit cardigan sweaters. While its never too early to start your Fall shopping, these sweaters make a great addition no matter the season as they can and should be worn all year round.
Our chubby knit sweater options below make for awesome all-season wear due to their lighter weight, acrylic knit fabric that will keep you warm without the feel of heavier weight wool. These sweaters are all cardigan-style with an open front and are made even more stylish with their chunkier knit which also gives them a luxe feel.
In addition, these sweaters all fall slightly at or below hip level, giving a flattering silhouette and their balloon-style sleeves make them boho chic. Pair these sweaters with anything and everything in your wardrobe from your most shredded long and short denim pieces to your flowiest of dresses or simply wear while lounging at home to keep you warm and comfy.
Detailing Our Favorite Chubby Knit Cardigan Sweater of 2024
Ferbia Women Oversized Knit Cardigan — Best Overall
This sweater is a great piece to throw over any outfit when you need some quick warmth. Made from a high quality knit fabric, this sweater is oversized for a cool, casual fit and its soft material won’t feel uncomfortable or scratchy on the skin. This cardigan features baggy, cable knit, with a trendy drop shoulder, unique balloon sleeves, and a draped front that comes to a flattering point just over the hip. Pair this medium-weight sweater with everything from jeans and leggings to a flowy dress for a night out on the town.
Pros
- This sweater comes in four neutral color options
Cons
- This sweater does not have any buttons
Imily Bela Slouchy Cardigan Sweater — Runner Up
Another great chunky knit is this long sleeve cardigan with batwing-style sleeves. It’s slouchy, oversized fit, cable knitting detail and all over draping make it a great layering piece during the spring and summer months. This sweater is also great to keep at the office when the A/C dips down to unmanageable levels and can even be worn over your swimsuit for cooler nights at the beach or a weekend swim party.
Pros
- The tightness and ribbing at the cuffs give this sweater some unique and flattering detail
Cons
- It is advised to review the size chart to ensure correct sizing
Astylish Chunky Knit Cardigan Sweater — Honorable Mention
This open front knit cardigan sweater is a great option for year-round wear as it is made from 100% acrylic which will keep you warm but not overheated in most types of weather. This sweater features oversized long sleeves, a ribbed hem, and a relaxed fit that can be controlled depending on the size you choose – go up a size for a looser, oversized fit, or size just right for a more fitted feel. This sweater is another great option to pair with jeans, dresses, or just leggings for a fast, fun, casual look.
Pros
- This is a timeless sweater style that will last for years to come
Cons
- This style does not have a button front
Traleubie Chunky Cardigan Sweater — Contender
If you prefer a longer cardigan style, this option falls to the lower-to mid-thigh for an elongating effect. The generous length sleeves and soft, stretchy material make this cardigan comfortable and its lightweight material makes it great for year-round use. Easily layer and style this sweater with any of your favorite jeans, dresses, or leggings and it can even be belted for a more slimming silhouette.
Pros
- Small but functional side pockets give the cardigan a comfortable feel
Cons
- This sweater may run on the smaller side
OmicGot Chunky Cardigan Sweater — Also Consider
Whether you wear with shorts or pants, this 100% acrylic cardigan sweater is a great year-round piece. Its open front closure, two front pockets, and a stylish shawl collar keep the sweater unique and easy to pair with anything in your wardrobe. It’s long, loose sleeves will keep you warm without weighing you down and its slightly oversized fit makes it the ideal travel piece for any upcoming getaways or vacations.
Pros
- This sweater comes in over 10 fun color options
Cons
- Hand washing only is advised
A+D Oversized Knit Cardigan — Another Option
Unlike our other options, this open-front cardigan is made with cotton for extra softness. This sweater has a slightly loose fit that can be sized up or down for your preferred silhouette and is easily layered for extra warmth. This sweater also has pockets on both sides with a ribbed edge and falls slightly below the hips for an easy-to-wear piece with any pair of jeans or leggings. Easily dress this sweater up for a night on the town with the addition of jewelry and your favorite boots or heels or keep it casual for a day of errands.
Pros
- The heathered knit fabric gives this cardigan a unique and soft feel
Cons
- There is only one color option
Buying Guide: Chubby Knit Cardigan Sweaters
What Is a Chubby Knit Cardigan Sweater?
A chubby knit cardigan sweater refers to a type of oversized knitwear with an open front. It also has a long length that reaches a little below the waist. This particular sweater is one of the most popular clothing items in women’s winter fashion.
The chubby sweater uses large knits and bulky patterns. Thus, it gives a unique retro outlook mostly preferred by young and middle-aged women. It also features a relaxed vibe to it that enhances your casual outfit.
Generally, chubby knit cardigan sweaters use high-quality wool or acrylic fabric. Both of these materials make the garment super warm and comfortable. You can wear it all day long in winters to keep the chilliness away.
Besides, these cardigan sweaters are quite versatile. You can pair them with a diversity of clothes without worries.
Is There a Difference Between Cardigans and Sweaters?
You are not alone if you’ve felt confused between a cardigan and sweater. Despite being knitwear, both clothing items have prominent differences that set them apart. These include:
- A sweater is a knitted/crocheted garment worn on the upper body. It has a standard pull-over design with long sleeves and no opening.
- A cardigan refers to a type of sweater that has the front open. It may use buttons or straps to fasten the front, though it’s not necessary. Most cardigans are also longer and end a little below the waist.
Well, since both are different styles of knitwear, you must be wondering what a cardigan sweater is? Do not worry, because we wondered that too. Typically, a cardigan sweater is a fusion of both items. It is a long-length sweater that has an open front. You may or may not be able to fasten it, depending on the design.
Top Chubby Knit Cardigan Sweater Styles
There are countless chubby knit cardigan sweater styles to try. Each year thousands of designers, influencers, and fashion enthusiasts introduce a thousand different styles. However, the all-time popular and loved styles include:
Belted
As the name explains, these cardigan sweaters use a belt around the midriff area. The knitted belt is an excellent way to fasten the knitwear without losing style. But, be careful because bigger people may not feel comfortable in it.
Cropped
The cropped chubby knit cardigan sweaters look trendy. These sweaters have a short length that typically stops at the waist or above. Certain designs may reveal your torso/midriff area.
Long
If you prefer long-sized coats and upper wear, these long chubby knit cardigan sweaters will make you fall in love with them. This particular style reaches your knees or even ankles at times. Hence, it offers full coverage with style and additional warmth.
Vest
By vest, we do not mean that sleeveless garment worn under clothes. Instead, the vest chubby knit cardigan sweaters add a twist to the standard knitwear by featuring a slightly folded, long collar. The relaxed feel and unique styling of the collar make this type a must-have.
How to Select the Top Chubby Knit Cardigan Sweaters?
When browsing, you will come across a wealth of amazing chubby knit cardigan sweaters. There will be different colors, patterns, sizes, embellishments, and much more. All this variation makes it impossible for a beginner to buy the best one quickly and efficiently.
But, worry not, my friend. Our team has researched the top 5 factors to consider that will make selecting knitwear a breeze. So, without further ado, let’s dive in!
Aesthetics
The clothes you wear have a significant impact on your looks and feel. You would want to dress as stylishly as possible everywhere. So, an important feature to assess is aesthetics. Look at the sweater, and think whether it matches your style sense. Does the cardigan sweater appear jazzy with vibrant colors and patterns? Or, does it appear elegant using neutral shades and simple patterns? Choose one that you like the best.
Size & fitting
Chubby knit cardigan sweaters are available in different sizes. You should always measure yourself before selecting any knitwear. Ensure that the cardigan sits nicely on your body shape.
As for fitting, a chubby cardigan sweater is typically oversized and bulky. But, you may also find baggy or more loose sweaters for a vintage look.
Material
Different manufacturers use different materials in the composition. Usually, you will find these types:
- Woolen; genuine, sheep-driven
- Acrylic; synthetic fiber that imitates wool
- Blends; a combination of various materials (cotton/polyester/cashmere)
If you want the sweater to be extremely warm and cozy, opt for wool as it has natural heat retaining properties. It is also the most durable material that withstands wear and tears easily. But, it can often be heavyweight.
Pockets
Most chubby cardigan sweaters will not feature pockets. However, having one or two pockets in your sweater makes a world of difference. You can keep small items and essentials in them without worries.
Washability
Cardigan sweaters may not get dirty easily, though they will require washing sooner or later. Hence, it’s best to opt for a machine-friendly sweater that won’t deteriorate when washed with the rest of the clothes. Avoid manual hand-washing clothes as it makes maintenance a hassle.