One of the things that I am mildly obsessed with this winter is the thick, over-sized cable knit sweaters. Never before have I felt such a pull toward these winter wonders, but this year the cold is getting to me and every morning I feel the urge to reach for these beauties.

Why are cable knit sweaters so great?

They are incredibly warm. When I’m dressed in one of these thick knit sweaters I’m never cold. I don’t feel the need to add extra layers. If I do so, like adding a scarf, it is usually more for style than for warmth.

They are so comfortable. Because these types of sweaters usually aren’t fitted, they are comfortable enough to be in all day without feeling like you are suffocating or without watching the clock waiting till you can get home and get into comfy clothes.

They are easy to style. Most cable knit sweaters already have an interesting design element as part of their very make-up. So you don’t need to worry too much about accessories or pairing them. Go with a classic bottom piece in a solid and you are golden. Not much fashion or style know-how is needed.

How To Wear Cable Knit Sweater:

1. Business Casual. Go ahead, layer the sweater over a basic dress. It’s so easy to slip these over a dress and be ready to take on the day. With the bulk that a cable knit sweater provides, you want to make sure you aren’t adding a lot of extra apparent weight with the dress you pair it with. You’re best bet is to go with a dress that is straight and streamlined. Opt for a pattern-less basic color. (You can check out a recent post using this styling technique for a work day.)

2. Casual Weekend Warrior. Take the same sweater from work appropriate to weekend wear by switching out the dress or skirt for denim. Again, as with the dress, pick a denim style that is more streamlined. Unless the sweater is really fitted, you probably want to stay away from wide-leg denim or the wide boot-cut styled jeans. Go instead for a skinny or straight pair of denim.

3. Layered Up. I don’t like wearing coats when I am going to be running in and out of places, like on days that I am doing all my errands. So for those days, I opt instead for a layered approach. Throw on a t-shirt or long sleeved tee under the sweater, one that can be easily hidden and will not add bulk, but will provide that extra layer of warmth. Then add a blanket scarf on top of the sweater. Or you can ditch the scarf, if your sweater has a cowl neck and opt for a fitted jacket instead. (More on the layering outfit below can be found over here.)