Cardigans are versatile year-round pieces that can be styled in multiple ways. This staple’s ability to be dressed up or down has made it a must-have for the office, errands, and any type of outing. But with all of this variety comes a crucial question: What are the best cardigan outfits to elevate your appearance?
Just because cardigans are an add-on doesn’t mean they should be boring. The item can be transformed from a sweater you hang over your office chair in case the AC gets too cold to a statement-making centerpiece.
In this guide, we show you how to style a cardigan, regardless of its style—whether colorful, full-length, cropped, button-up, or low-cut.
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Cardigan Outfit Ideas to Recreate ASAP
There’s an entire spectrum of cardigan outfit ideas. And the truth is, we can’t get enough of them. A chic cardigan can serve as the bottom, middle, or outer layer of any outfit. It can become that accessory you tie around your shoulders, a daring outerwear you leave unbuttoned when you want to flaunt your tank top, or the perfect complement to any bottoms.
Indeed, the cardigan is a bold, statement-making piece and the outfit ideas show you how:
Cardigan & Trench Coat
When temperatures get frigid, layer a polished trench coat over your cardigan. It’ll keep you snug and oh-so stylish. Complete the look with your most preferred footwear: pumps, thigh-high boots, flats, sneakers.
Half-Tucked Cardigan Outfits
A subtle one-sided tuck gives your cardigan a more laid-back feel. Regardless of how polished your top is, this styling trick will give you a relaxed look. Don’t confuse it with the French tuck, where you tuck only the front middle part of your shirt into your pants or skirt, leaving the back and sides hanging loose.
Midi Skirt & Cardigan Outfits
Whether structured, slim-fitting, or voluminous, a midi skirt adds an effortless elegance to your appearance. Finish the look with a pair of kitten heels or pumps for a subtle, highbrow charm.
Neutral Hues Cardigan Outfits
An easy way to join the cardigan train is to wear complementary neutral shades. Minimalist colors like beige stand out when paired with white or cream tones. For example, a cream-colored mini skirt teamed with a longline or oversized cream blazer gives off old money. Accessorize with jewel tones for a final touch of elegance without distracting from your knitwear’s focal point.
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Jeans & Cardigan Outfits
When in doubt, pair your cardigan with timeless wardrobe staples like jeans. Whichever style of denim you choose—straight-leg, bootcut, high-rise, boyfriend, or bell bottoms— you’ll get a beautiful, classic look that will never go out of style.
Contrasting Colors Cardigan Outfits
Any cardigan can be spiced with some eclectic drama once you contrast its color with a coat, blouse, or layer on the opposite end of the color spectrum. It’s an easy way to stand out and embrace some free-spiritedness. A light blue cardigan, for example, makes a perfect base for a bright cherry red or deep purple.
Off-the-Shoulder Cardigan Outfits
If you thought the cardigan isn’t sexy, think again. Flaunt your sculpted shoulders by buttoning only the bottom half of your cardigan and pushing the neckline and sleeves down around your arms. It’ll give an undone look that is calmly sensual.
Cropped Cardigan Outfits
Instead of a lengthy cardigan, opt for a cropped piece and pair it with a tank, collared shirt, or turtleneck underneath. Then, finish things off with ballet flats for a schoolgirl look.
Belted Fits
Belting a cardigan adds shape and structure to oversized silhouettes. It’s a waist-cinching accent that adds more intrigue and provides shape.
Cardigan & Sweater Combo
If you can’t decide between two sweaters, just wear them both. Transform the cardigan into a makeshift shawl or scarf by wrapping it around the shoulders. It’s a small detail that adds extra warmth and makes you look more sophisticated.
Unbutton the cardigan completely. This style is perfect for showing off your underpiece while keeping your arms warm.
Playful Stripes & Colors
Stripes bring a preppy spin to any outfit, and multicolored prints make a greater statement. For a trendy touch, combine it with jeans or wide-leg pants to balance up the playfulness.
With a Blazer or Cardigan
A cardigan can go from a casual fit to proper business attire when paired with a fitted blazer. The contrasting textures make for a chic office outfit that pairs well with pants, shorts, or a skirt.
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