Chunky Knit Decor: Tips We Stole from Fashion

It’s like clockwork—as the mercury dips, chunky knits are brought out and put on high rotation. And for good reason: their thick, heavy stitching adds a dose of warmth and luxury to any outfit. The same goes for interiors. Richly textured fabrics that recall hand-knitted pullovers add instant cozy factor—when done right. Just as the heft of your favorite knit sweater can overwhelm an outfit, it’s easy to lose a room in yarn. To get the look right, we pulled our favorite fashion tips, then translated them for the home.

1. Oversized is the right size.

Slim is out; big is in. At least for fall fashion—and especially for knitwear. A fisherman sweater with a baggy, forgiving fit only ups its coziness factor. Likewise, for home textiles: There is nothing more warm and inviting than a sofa piled high with plush, oversized pillows or a leather chair with an extra-long, wooly throw strewn over the arm.

2. Balance is everything.

Making comfy, oversized knits look polished, not sloppy, is as simple as keeping proportions in check. In the same way you’d pair a roomy sweater with fitted bottoms, couple bulky textiles with streamlined furnishings. The addition of rich leathers, cool marble, and high-shine metallics are also a good bet for playing up the contrast between relaxed and elevated.

3. Layer, layer, layer. 

In the same way you’d throw a chunky wool sweater over a chambray button-front, don’t be afraid to mix and layer your materials at home. Richly textured pieces will have the most impact when styled side by side. Think: a collection of throw pillows in different knit fabrics or a chunky knit pouf set atop a faux fur rug.