Sweater weather is upon us and, like most fans of fall, I can’t wait to get all cozy-comfy in this season’s crop of knitwear. While sweaters have always been ubiquitous this time of year, my style senses are tingling, because this season’s pullovers, cardigans, and sweater coats seem to be brighter, chunkier, and woven with a bit of something extra. In fact, I’m going to be bold and declare that this is the season of the statement sweater!

What is a statement sweater, you may ask? Well, unlike the neutral twinsets and black turtlenecks that have been wardrobe staples lurking in the background, statement sweaters are the centerpieces of your outfit. From bold colors to mix-matched patterns, statement sweaters aren’t just about keeping you warm; they also elevate basics like jeans, boots, sneakers, and leggings into a complete look. Here’s a rundown of all things statement sweater.

If you’re unsure of how to proceed with this knitwear trend, start with color. Instead of burgundy, orange, or dark green—standard autumnal hues — go with an unexpected shade, like lavender, pistachio, or even neons. Even a soft, slim-fit V-neck in a vivid color will speak to this trend without having to jump into the deep end. If you abhor garish hues, you can stick to a neutral palette and experiment with texture. Try an off-white mock turtleneck with a basketweave braid, or a gray cable knit crew neck. You can double-down on your neutrals and textures by exploring oversized silhouettes like ponchos and sweater dresses to embody the statement sweater theme more fully.

For those of you ready to go a bit bolder with your sweater game this season, look to prints and patterns. To get the most bang for your trend buck, consider a leopard print knit. Or go with traditional fall patterns, like argyle, houndstooth, or Fair Isle in those unexpected shades from above. If you’re feeling really brave, consider mixing prints in one piece, like a colorblock scoopneck, an oversized intarsia sweater, or a mix of graphics in one pullover. Keep the rest of your outfit fairly simple with printed knitwear, think jeans and sneakers, leggings and boots, or simple black trousers and a loafer.

Of course, not everyone is a fan of loud print, or color, or chunky texture. You can still sport a statement sweater eschewing all of the above features. For a subtle and, dare I say chicer take, try a simple black (or grey) sweater with a bishop or puffed sleeve, preferably with tapered, ribbed cuffs. For a nighttime feel, try a version with slightly embellished shoulders for a really dramatic statement. These more architectural pullovers are best worn with slim-cut skirts and trousers to further emphasize the shoulder-detail.

Speaking of shoulders, I’d be remiss if I didn’t address the cutout and cold-shoulder sweater trend that has been around for a few seasons. I personally cannot stand them, but they do fall under the statement sweater umbrella. Maybe it’s because I’m becoming curmudgeonly in my old age, but the idea of a long-sleeved garment that is literally called “cold-shoulder” makes absolutely no sense to me. True, you may still be chilly even when sporting a statement piece of knitwear, but why would one intentionally lean into a silhouette with such a high potential for goosebumps. That being said, if you are a fan of cutouts, cropped, or off-the-shoulder knits, instead of freezing through the season, try some unexpected layers. A white collared button-up provides easy coverage under a shoulder-baring sweater and makes it work appropriate.

Lastly, have fun with this trend. Statement sweaters aren’t meant to be serious; they are meant to be daring. And be cautious with your budget. A cashmere neon striped boyfriend cardigan may not be the best piece to invest in. If you want a higher quality knit, go with a more classic silhouette or color so you can sport it year after year. If you want to really get wild, explore fast-fashion options. With either route, consider how your sweater will fit under a coat this coming winter. Capelets and ponchos definitely have flair, but come January, they aren’t so easy to wear and still keep warm. Happy sweater weather!