How to Style Every Different Type of Cardigan

types of cardigans

When you’re shopping for cardigans, it’s helpful to understand what makes them different from a sweater and know the qualities that make these pieces unique. This can help you save time and allow you to narrow down your choices so you can find what you really want. We make it easy to understand the different types of cardigans and discuss when to wear them, so you can look stylish and feel comfortable no matter the occasion. 


Different Types of Cardigans & How to Style Each


Unraveling the Cardigan

A cardigan, like a sweater, is a knitted garment you can wear on your upper body with pants, skirts, and even over dresses or jumpsuits. What makes cardigans unique is the opening in the front, typically lined with buttons or a zipper, although some cardigans don’t have either, and simply hang open in the front. 

This allows you to wear it open or closed and layer it over a variety of blouses and tops. Cardigans are a great item for layering and highlighting the rest of your outfit when worn open or half-buttoned. You can find cardigans in a variety of styles and several neck-line options. Find what you’re interested in whether you’re looking for something cropped with a chunky knit or long and sleek to dress up on a night out. 

Since cardigans can vary in style and material, they’re a great addition to your outfit year-round. You can layer them over a light top or dress during the warmer months or under a jacket and scarf in the winter.

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A few of our favorite cardigan styles and the best ways to wear them:

Shawl Collar Cardigan

If you’re interested in dressing up a casual look for a lunch date or happy hour with your friends, consider a cardigan with a shawl collar and pair it with jeans or leather pants to look stylish without feeling overdressed. 

Button-Up Cardigan

A button-up cardigan is a classic piece that you can pair with a button-up shirt at the office or with a tight turtle neck and chunky sneakers for a more modern look. You can also leave it buttoned and throw it on with a pair of jeans and leather boots for an understated, contemporary outfit. 

Cropped Cardigan Sweater

A cropped cardigan is a great way to add a unique flair to your look. It’s easy to style with high-waisted pants, wide-leg or skinny jeans, and skirts. A versatile piece to add to your wardrobe, the cropped cardigan is also a smart choice for colder and warmer months, allowing you to wear it year-round.

Chunky Knit Cardigan

If you need to stay warm, you can layer a chunky knit cardigan to elevate your look with this piece of chic outerwear. Long or short, it’s sure to help you showcase your personal style, even during the colder months. Now that you’re familiar with the difference between a cardigan and a sweater, you’ll be able to find what you’re looking for in no time. Get your cardigans on to feel chic and comfy at any time!

Featured Image by Sinitta Leunen


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