It’s a great year to kick your sweatpants addiction.

One of my greatest pet peeves about college students is the sloppiness often associated with going to class. True, sweatpants are comfortable, you’ll never be able to wear them during the day in the “real world” and it takes less effort than putting together an actual outfit. But sweatpants give off the appearance of not carrying, as you couldn’t even be bothered to do up a zipper and button in the morning. They are also dangerous when it comes to the freshman 15. If you’re constantly wearing things with elastic waistbands, you’re less likely to realize that you’re adding inches to your frame. Now that we have my rant out of the way, I’m going to assure you that you don’t have to sacrifice comfort for style.

This year lots of clothing items are both incredibly comfortable and infinitely more stylish than your saggy sweats. As I’m starting to feel the fall air in Toronto, I’m gravitating to the big, chunky sweaters available in stores right now. Though they have the comfort of your favourite sweats, a big sweater actually has style. You can belt a cardigan over a dress, giving it a more streamlined appearance, or wear a big pullover with your skinny jeans. There are two main styles of chunky sweaters this year, so I’ve rounded up some of the best!

Cardigan-type sweaters

The chunky cardigan or open sweater is a little different than those in seasons past. These are most definitely not your rich neighbour’s country club twin set. Though over-sized is often associated with sloppiness, when done right you won’t be looking like a bag-lady in these sweaters. Pair big pieces with more fitted ones to keep style and comfort. Click the links for more product information!

Karmaloop / Gap / Nordstrom
Express / Old Navy /  J Crew 

Pullover Sweaters

Sweater style numero two is the pullover. Within this basic description (you pull it over your head…duh!) there are a variety of knits and collar-styles. Cowl-neck sweaters are the cousin to the dreaded turtleneck, giving you a similar neck-warmth without looking like Howard Wolowitz. Lots of the sweater options are incorporating other popular styles, including the dolman-sleeve. While I love the concept of dolman-sleeves, you probably want to avoid wearing it at an all-you-can-eat buffet. Many knit sweaters need to be washed by hand, and sleeves in the food are not fun to clean.

Forever 21 / American Eagle / Lands End Canvas
Old Navy / Loft / delia*s 

Besides all the glitz, glamour and fancy trends those 100-pound fashion magazines are pushing on you this season, there are eight things you must have in your closet (not counting undies, bras and socks, of course – you still need to wear those).  Things that will always work, no matter what. Things that you can mix and match and dress up or down for any occasion. Things that are just plain cute.

Lucky for all of us, all 8 of those things can be nabbed for under 20 buckaroos!  And what’s more, these key pieces will barely ever putter out of style.  If they do, tuck them back in a dark corner for the season and bring them back out with next season’s Vogue.

The Floral Dress: This cute number is no longer delegated to only spring or summer.  A wispy floral dress looks edgy with a leather jacket or super cozy with a thick knit sweater.  Side Note: Avoid bulky.  Keep it light and classy!

Cargo Skinnies: These great, neutral pants are your new blue jean replacement. You can often see Victoria Beckam making them look totally hot with a black blazer and simple tee. With platform pumps, these cargo pants can look chic!

Cozy Knit: This warm knit makes me want to curl up in front of a fire with some Baileys and hot chocolate. Or in the library with a Stats book and a Five Hour Energy. But it’s not just for snuggle-time. You can drape it over a pair of skinny jeans and boots for the day, or add a belt to cinch the waist for a fancier event.

Cropped Leather Jacket: OK, so maybe this isn’t real, deliciously smelling leather.  BUT, it looks pretty damn close and I’ve never been disappointed by pleather faux leather.  Not to mention, it’s super cheap and would look great with a floral dress, tights and booties. Oh, and it would look even better as you rip it off and swing it over your head on the dance floor.

Leopard Knit Cardigan: Can’t go out with a bang unless you have something leopard. This leopard cardigan is saucy and super soft. And only $12.90 – a great buy! Wear this over a dress, with a pair of jeans or layered under a boyfriend cardigan. However you mix it in, it will make a bold statement. Just remember: when you wear animal print, stick to the same palette and add contrast, not clash.

Full Skirt: This season’s freshest breath of silhouette is most definitely the full skirt. Wear this one with a slimming top to offset the fullness and some patterned tights to bring in the edgy.

Cropped Sweatpant: These are going to be totally in this and next season. And every season till the end of time for college students.  This pair looks seriously soft and perfect for a day-date with the coffee shop and your lecture notes. Cute and super comfy? Sign me up. Twice.

Leather Bottoms: This leather skirt is totally hot.  I understand leather can be mildly scary to slip on (not because it will stick to your legs a la Ross Geller, but because it might give you a case of the slutties), but embrace it. If you pair this with a crisp white tee, tights and pumps, you’ll look just right. Meow.

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