How to Wear a Cardigan: 16 Super-Cute Styling Ideas

Consider this our official cardigan appreciation post. Whether you’re dressing up a t-shirt or dressing down a sexy mini, cardigan sweaters are some of the most versatile pieces you can own. Far from being just a warming layer, the open-front sweater is a style staple that never lets us down–no matter the season. Need proof? Check out 16 chic ideas for how to wear a cardigan like an It-girl.

To Brighten Up Dark Neutrals

Give an all-black outfit with brown extras a brightening boost in the form of a long creamy cardigan. Pro tip: A cozy, oversized silhouette works best over tailored pieces like skinny jeans and slim-fitting tops.

As a Statement-Jacket Alternative

What’s better than one sweater? Two sweaters, of course. A printed jacket-inspired cardigan makes a great standout topper when an actual coat isn’t required.

To Add Color to Cool-Girl Staples

Wardrobe essentials like a tank bodysuit, distressed jeans, and ankle booties never go out of style. Give yours a cozy update with a pop-of-pastel knit!

With All-White Everything

Another look that never goes out of style? Winter white outfits. Over a t-shirt and cropped white jeans, an ivory cardigan makes the perfect finishing touch.

Buttoned Once with Layered Necklaces

Can a cardigan be sexy? Yes, it sure can. Exhibit A: a ’90s-inspired ribbed cropped cardi buttoned just once with high-rise jeans, hoop earrings, and a layered necklace.

Over a Fancy Dress

Flip the script on special occasion dressing. Instead of a fancy cape, shawl, or shrug, layer on a cozy textured cardigan for an effortlessly chic vibe.

Tucked Into Jeans

Another ’90s-inspired outfit idea: Tuck your buttoned-up cropped cardigan into high-rise jeans. Bonus points if you add a layered choker necklace.

As a Cozy Boho Layer

Warm up a sexy cold-weather look! A cozy hooded cardi softens the sharp colors of a plaid dress with a western belt, hat, and over-the-knee boots.

With Cutoffs and Sneakers

Swap out your t-shirt for a cropped cardigan sweater during those in-between seasons. Fully buttoned, it acts as a long sleeve top substitute to wear with cutoffs. Open over a tank or bodysuit, it offers an extra lightweight layer.

With a Graphic Tee and Jeans

Meet your new go-to casual weekend outfit! Skip the jacket and wear a long-length cardigan over a graphic t-shirt with jeans and booties for a look that’s equal parts polished and laid-back.

Layered With Tonal Pieces

As a Pop of Print With Black and White

Animal print is forever our styling secret weapon. White tee, vegan leather leggings, and boots? Cute. With a tiger stripe cardi? Oh heck, yes.

On Its Own With Jeans