22 Cardigan Outfit Ideas to Try This Season

Cardigans are a wardrobe essential, but they also happen to be consistently trendy. What's the newest stylish take on cardigan outfits? Well, with an influx of '90s and early-aughts looks over the past several seasons, the current trend is all about wearing these sweaters as tops, whether it's thin and cropped like a baby tee or rendered in a classic silhouette in a bright color or logo pattern.

The cardigan styles out there truly run the gamut. You can layer a cropped cardigan over a dress, a short-sleeved cardigan on top of a long-sleeved shirt, or a long cardigan sweater over a skirt, or simply throw on a cardigan dress. There are also chunkier and lightweight cardigans out there that are great for styling as tops. If duster cardigans or long cardigan sweaters are more your speed, you can style them in the same manner as your favorite thin jacket.

The freshest way to wear your cardigan is with just a few buttons secured at the top and several left open for a chic reveal of skin — or as a mid-layer between a lightweight top and a trusty coat for transitional and cool weather. The best thing about cardigans? They're perfect for lounging around the house or when you want an outfit that looks just dressed enough but not overdone.

Now is a great time to reach for the beloved knit you already have, or pick up a new cardigan, and give the design a fresh spin via the creative and diverse outfit ideas ahead.

— Additional reporting by Sarah Wasilak

What Cardigans Are In Style For 2023?

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When I shared my post discussing how to navigate 2023 style trends, I received several emails, comments, and DMs asking me my thoughts on cardigans. I mentioned the waterfall cardigan felt dated with skinny jeans, but what is an alternative? What cardigans are in style for 2023?

First of all, you wear whatever makes you happy. If waterfall cardigans with skinny jeans make you happy, rock on with your bad self. Maybe try that cardigan with a different silhouette (try a lightweight drapey wide-leg trouser for a full head-to-toe drapey effect) but if you are looking to buy a new cardigan in a current silhouette or style, there are three prominent cardigan trends for 2023.

I originally wrote this post in the early spring of 2023. As the year has continued, I've seen these three cardigan trends only gain steam in popularity and with it an increase in color, textile, and size selection. I decided to update this post to link to current offerings in popular cardigans from a variety of retailers.

What Cardigan Styles Are Still Stylish?

First, let's assess your current cardigan wardrobe. Please know what I share is guidance, not gospel. Fashion is fluid in 2023; wearing what makes you happy is the most stylish thing you can do. But based upon what is available this year from retailers and trends showing on social media, street style, and runways, this is my assessment:

We've had several years of thigh-to-calf length duster cardigans. Most are open in front without buttons. These are still being sold (like this one from Quince or this one from Old Navy), and are still useful being something other than a blazer as the third piece of a work outfit or to add a bit of warmth. They are a great piece to wear with leggings and skinny jeans, but you've likely seen the pant silhouettes changing in stores and these dusters can feel bulky with 2023 denim silhouettes.

Similar to this, we have had a few seasons of the open-front cardigan. This is shorter a shorter cardigan sweater (mid-thigh/tunic length). This one from J. Crew Factory is a good example. Occasionally this sweater has patch pockets, and occasionally it will also have a self-belt (see the M.M.LaFleur Merritt Jardigan). This style of cardigan isn't going anywhere; it's a great alternative to a blazer and also cozy enough to be a loungewear favorite. However, keep the loungewear knits (AKA that Barefoot Dreams version, sweatshirt versions, and anything jersey) at home and the more structured and polished knitwear versions for work and weekend.

We have also had many years of the sweater blazer, and I don't see this disappearing any time soon. Sweater blazers like the J. Crew Factory Schoolboy Sweater-Blazer fit our pre-pandemic wardrobe paired with skinny jeans and Pixie pants, but also fit our current office and work from home vibe. Try updating this style of cardigan with a wider leg jean or trouser in 2023; you may like the results.

The classic jewelneck cardigan like the J. Crew Jackie Cardigan is a classic for a reason but may feel wrong with 2023 fashion. Try wearing it buttoned up like a shirt; either alone or over a tank, fitted tee, or camisole. 2023 versions of this cardigan will be shorter, hitting anywhere from cropped to high-hip. If yours is longer you may want to try a different style or length this year. If you love the one you have, consider getting a Beltaway and using the method I have in this video to have it looked tucked in without the bulk.

All of your “grandpa” and “varsity” style cardigans are still in style. These are v-neck sweaters that hit mid-hip to thigh like this one from Gap. This style of cardigan has buttons, and usually two patch pockets. This year, if they are lightweight enough, consider buttoning them up and tucking or half-tucking them to give them a fresh effect.

What Cardigans Are In Style For 2023?

As I mentioned above, there are three prominent cardigan trends this year. And I know these three cardigan trends will continue to be stylish as we head into 2024. They are also styles that will transition beautifully from fall to winter, and then winter to spring, and often be styles you may grab for a breezy summer evening. And come Fall/Winter 2024 you can still look chic rocking them with your favorite wardrobe staples. I'll break down these trends and how to wear them:

The Cropped V-Neck Cardigan

This cardigan hits anywhere from the bottom of the ribcage to high hip. It is a substantial weight, often with subtle ribbing, and has 3-4 large buttons (often horn/wood look). There is often a band at the bottom and the neck is high enough that it can be worn buttoned up like a shirt.

Click the color names below to shop these v-neck cardigan sweaters; they will open in a separate browser window, tab, or the store's app if it's on your device:

You will see this cardigan EVERYWHERE, and at every pricepoint. It's the default sweater for the 2023 trend of looser pants, jeans, and midi skirts. This sweater is designed to hit high enough so it complements a more relaxed silhouette of bottom, often resting at the top of your hip/rear curve. I discuss this sweater and how it's popular due to the Quiet Luxury trend.

Any color works, but it seems a cream/ivory/beige version has been the most popular. Even I own one, this one from Universal Standard. I find I wear it most often buttoned all the way up, or with the last one or two buttons open. I wear it as a shirt, I wear it over crewneck tees, boatneck Breton striped tops, and tucked-in button-front shirts and blouses.

Click the color names below to shop these v-neck cardigan sweaters; they will open in a separate browser window, tab, or the store's app if it's on your device:

As the season has continued, I have seen more fun colors, colorblocking, heathered yarns, and decorative buttons (especially gold). There is likely a cropped v-neck cardigan that fits your current closet and your personal style aesthetic.

Depending on the weight of your cropped v-neck cardigan, you can wear it under blazers, either open with a third layer underneath, or as your base layer. Remember, as I mentioned in this article about 2023 fashion trends, the theme of 2023 fashion is Take Up the Space You Deserve. If it's comfortable, don't be afraid to layer!

The Boyfriend Cardigan

The boyfriend cardigan has been in style for a while now, and has been in style before. Also known as the grandpa cardigan, the oversized cardigan, and the varsity cardigan; this sweater is also a substantial weight, has a banded v-neck and larger buttons (usually horn/wood look but occasionally decorative or the same color as the sweater). With optional patch pockets, this sweater hits anywhere from mid-hip to mid-thigh and is a straight cut without a band at the bottom.

Click the color names below to shop these v-neck cardigan sweaters; they will open in a separate browser window, tab, or the store's app if it's on your device:

Row 1: red (5 colors; XXS-4X) | blue (3 colors; XXS-XL) | brown (5 colors; XXS-XXL w/ petite & tall)
Row 2: tan (3 colors; XXS-4X) | gray (3 colors; 1X-3X) | dark red (6 colors; XXS-XXL)
Row 3: dark green (4 colors; XXS-XXL) | aqua (6 colors; XS-4X) | camel (4 colors; 3XS-3XL)

I explain these details because there is a good chance you will find or own a v-neck cardigan of this length that is open/without buttons, a lightweight knit (linen, silk, thin merino, etc.), has delicate pearlized buttons, and/or has a band at the bottom. Go ahead and wear these if you still have them, but don't add any more to your closet.

This sweater is called a boyfriend cardigan because it looks like you borrowed it from your boyfriend on the varsity team that earned him that sweater. While varsity-inspired cardigans are still in (contrast piping, sleeves a different color from the body, etc.), these sweaters can be a solid color, marled, an intarsia print, striped, and most anything else your heart desires.

The Sweater Jacket (AKA The Lady Jacket)

This year you are going to see a lot of sweater jackets, which will also be called Lady Jackets. The Chanel-inspired jacket is a big trend in 2023, and it is being made in heavyweight sweaters as well as tweed and boucle. This is usually collarless, hits at the waist or just below, and usually has the signature “Lady Jacket” gold buttons down the front and on pockets.

Click the color names below to shop these v-neck cardigan sweaters; they will open in a separate browser window, tab, or the store's app if it's on your device:

Row 1: navy with red and white (5 colors; 2-20/22) | lime and yellow (XS-L) | black and cream (14/16-26/28)
Row 2: black and white (XXS-3X) | tan (2 colors; XXS-XL) | gray (3 colors; 3XS-3XL)
Row 3: olive and cream (2 colors; XS-XL) | orange and pink (XS-L) | navy and blue (3 colors; XXS-XXL w/ petite/tall)

But beyond the Chanel-inspired Lady Jacket, you will see sweaters imitating bomber jackets, moto jackets, and even denim jackets. Sweaters with enough heft to handle zippers, larger buttons, collars, buttoned cuffs, and pockets. This is a trend you likely can find thrifting or even in your existing closet, but pay attention to length and weight.

These are not sweater coats, and they are not delicate. They are cropped to mid-hip length like a jacket. They are sturdy knits. Consider these an alternative to a blazer or a denim jacket as that third piece to pull together a top and bottom, or to add pizzazz to a dress.

What Lightweight Cardigans Are In Style?

In the warmer months or when living in a warmer climate, when you desire a cardigan it is for a temporary chill (the sunset, you're going outside for lunch, the space is overly air-conditioned) or because you wish to have more coverage (sleeveless dress, the outfit is very fitted over the torso or rear).

Consider a classic style in a lighter-weight yarn, still steering from the overly delicate linen and pointelle. You can still wear your lighter-weight long cardigans, grandpa cardigans, sweater blazers, and jewel-neck cardigans. but instead of defaulting to black, white, or beige, consider using the cardigan as a way to add a pop of color or personality to your outfit.

A way to update your existing cardigans is to switch out the buttons. Places like JoAnn's, Michael's, and even Amazon carry small buttons perfect for lightweight cardigans. If your cardigan has white or pearl buttons, consider switching them out for horn, wood, the same color as the sweater, or a nod to the Lady Jacket trend with small gold buttons.

But you may find less of a need for cardigans as you incorporate more current trends into your closet. Clothes aren't as fitted, sleeveless isn't as much as the default, and there are a lot of really cool lightweight jackets on the scene that keep you warm and stylish.

But What About [Enter Favorite Cardigan Style Here]?

My grown-ass friend, you do you. If you love your cardigan enough to have this question at the end of this article, it means it is a part of your personal style aesthetic and should continue to be in your closet. Make sure it is in good condition and is truly a part of your style and not just a sartorial security blanket.

There are no rules in fashion anymore. There is no trend you must adopt, nothing in your closet you have to toss to remain stylish. However, in 2023 you have permission to try something new. To try a combination that before you felt was wrong or weird or unflattering. To fail, and know it's just an outfit and not going to ruin your life, and try again. To have some fun, be a little wacky, be a little bold, and be unapologetically you.

How to Style a Cardigan 4 Different Ways

As the temperature drops and the leaves start to fall, I start reaching for all things warm and cozy. Hot coffees replace ice lattes, throw blankets make their way out of the linen closet. And cardigans start making their way back into my wardrobe. Always there when I need them, bringing extra warmth to my outfits when I need it most.

A cardigan is truly a girl’s best friend. Over the years I’ve had lots of different favorites. Even now, I basically live in my Alex Mill striped cardigan (which conveniently doubles as a regular old sweater). With so many cuts, textures and patterns to choose from, I’ve set out to write a sort of cardigan primer.

Herein is a list of (some of) the different kinds of cardigans, general styling tips, and some outfit ideas! I hope to do my beloved cardigans justice.

How To Style A Cardigan

Different Types Of Cardigans:

Long cardigans, or dusters – These are super cozy! I see them styled casually most often and that’s how I like to style them as well. They’re just effortlessly cool and seriously comfy.

Short cardigans – This more cropped style looks really good with high waisted pieces. It’s a very modern cut, and if you’re a big fan of hooded cardigans, you can easily find hooded versions of short cardigans as well.

Wrap cardigans – Wrap cardigans are characterized by their flowy silhouette and lack of any sort of closure. They have less structure than, say, a chunky knit. This is a good option to wear over a form fitting dress or pencil skirt. Because these often come with belts, they are similar to belted cardigans. Just a bit more open and flowy.

Kimono cardigan – The more laid back cousin of the wrap cardigan! The fun aunt really. Kimonos are usually lightweight and flowy. Less Fall and more Spring, although you could definitely get away with it during any season when paired with the right layering pieces.

Knit cardigans – Another very cozy option, knit cardigans add a lot of extra warmth. Very practical, and very stylish. They can really add texture to a look as well, with lots of variations like cable knit, knitted wool, or fair isle.

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What To Wear With Cardigans

I am a firm believer that there is a cardigan for every look. Seriously, it gets cold in Chicago. We need all the extra layers we can get! Even if you don’t live in a particularly cold climate, a cardigan can really come in handy. They’re even great to grab on a balmy summer night. If you pick the right piece you could really wear a cardigan with anything.

My favorite way to wear them is over a t- shirt and jeans – a cute cardigan can really bring a casual outfit together. It’s also fun to try layering them over my summer wardrobe! Which, by the way, is an easy way to lengthen the lifespan of your favorite dress or tank top.

Then, of course, wearing other Fall staples, like boots or a scarf with your cardigan will really enhance the look! So many options, so many opportunities to express yourself through style!

Tops To Wear Under Cardigans

Even though cardigans are super versatile, there are some tips you can keep in mind to make the most of each of your cardigan outfits! Here are some examples:

Let’s say you’re having a classic white tee and jeans day. A cool cardigan with a bold, all over print can really elevate your look.

A blouse with a statement collar looks super cute under a simpler, solid colored cardi. And, a blouse with a mock or turtleneck calls for a cardigan with a more rounded neckline.

Lastly, a tank top or camisole can be a good choice for pretty much any of these! Get ready for a ton of mixing and matching as you add more and more cardigans to your wardrobe!

4 Outfits With Cardigans

Long, Textured Cardigan with Jeans

I love the textural details of this cardigan! It’s so cozy, and the perfect cardigan for these colder, winter months. Honestly, it’s like a blanket you can wear! It’s definitely a statement piece, so I would wear it to dress up more casual outfits.

When I say casual, I mean a pair of skinny jeans and a gray or black t-shirt. I like the idea of a more dressy, heeled shoe with this cardigan – makes for a good mixture of preppy and casual! But, you can definitely still rock this look with some classic sneakers.

2-in-1 Button-Back Crewneck Sweater/Cardigan

This Alex Mill cardigan is a major favorite of mine. You might have seen me wearing it on Instagram, and you’ve definitely noticed it all over my blog. I just love the nautical feel of the stripes. And the really neat thing about this cardigan is that it transforms! Turn it around and it becomes a regular sweater.

For this outfit, however, we’re featuring the buttons. So to style this cardi, grab a button down and some straight leg jeans. A pair of mules will keep the outfit dressy but casual.

Chunky Cardigan Over Dress

A chunky cable knit cardigan is a winter wardrobe must. This navy blue one by Tuckernuck has a more elegant silhouette than your average granny sweater, with its high neckline and bishop sleeves. And the gold button details are just too cute!

This cardigan is perfect for layering a more glam look, like a slip dress and a pair of glittery heels. Complete the look with an evening bag and some matching jewelry and you have an excellent party outfit.

Open Front Cardigan With A Casual Tee

An open front cardigan is much more relaxed and casual than the other options I’ve listed. To style an open front cardi, just throw it on over a pair of jeans and your favorite t-shirt. I love this one from Nordstrom, especially when paired with cute matching tan boots.

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What type of cardigan will you buy next?

Cardigans are so classic. And when you have something that’s been around this long, you know they’re never going out of style.

Other than the styles I mentioned today, you can also find zipped cardigans, cardigan sweaters, open cardigans, cardigan vests, and so many more. So, what type of cardigan will you rock next?

Let me know in the comments below – I love hearing from you guys! You can check out more of my favorite looks, here. And for more on all things fashion, home decor and lifestyle, follow my blog and Instagram.