I’ve always loved chunky sweaters. They're wonderfully cozy, come in a stylish smattering of colors, and are the perfect remedy to the winter wardrobe blues. Up until recently, I paired these knits with everything in my closet with reckless abandon. Atop skirts, tucked into jeans, over dresses, you name it.

That is, until I saw a photo of myself a few weeks ago that made me reconsider my approach to styling said chunky sweater. I styled a large purple wool sweater on top of a voluminous, tiered Ulla Johnson dress. I had always envisioned this combination to be reminiscent of Chloé girls trouncing up and down the Seine in Paris with bohemian waves in their hair and the sun on their freckled cheeks.

My combination, however, did not render such outcomes, as you can see below.

Sure, it's not the absolute worst outfit you've ever laid eyes upon, but it's also not a knockout. My shape has disappeared due to the pairing of the oversize knit and billowy dress layered underneath. Of course, we're all our own worst critics, but rather than wallow in self-pity, I decided to take to the internet to seek out more reliably flattering takes on the chunky sweater. Below, find five simple and effective outfits involving a chunky sweater that you and I will both be excited to take our next photo in.

(Half-)Tuck Into Straight-Leg Jeans

You may already have this style tip in your back pocket, but in case you don't, be sure to take note. A chunky knit half-tucked into a pair of flattering jeans and polished off with a pair of ankle boots is a winning combination—always.