Chunk in the Trunk.

Chunky sweaters are a must-have wardrobe item for Fall and the transition into Winter. Not only are they cute and comfortable, but they’re warm too, which is the main focus for the cold months of November through February. Staying warm and fashionable at the same time during the winter can be difficult, but knitted sweaters tackle both of those jobs.

One of my favorite things about chunky sweaters is that they can be worn with practically anything; they have the flexibility of a good gymnast. If you want to transition one of your summer dresses into a fall outfit, you can add a chunky sweater, a belt, and some boots. If you want to transition a tank top to work in the fall, you can just layer on a big sweater and a pair of jeans. In addition, the texture of a sweater paired with plain or patterned clothing provides a great contrast that will draw eyes to an outfit.

Now, you might be concerned about the price of these sweaters, but where there is a will, there is a way. That “way” just so happens to be at fashionable stores like Forever 21, H&M, and Charlotte Russe, where you can buy a few of those sweaters for the price of one designer sweater. However, the best bang for your buck will be found on the sale racks at retail stores JC Penney and Macy’s, who provide quality clothing for killer prices when marked down. So I send you into the fall weather with the advice to remember to be thrifty and stylish, because they can be the same thing!

(Clockwise: H&M Fall Catalogue 2010, Marie Claire 2009, Free People Fall Catalogue 2010, FP Catalogue 2010)