The cardigan just may be the style of the moment. Like the baby tee and other 90’s trends, the classic button up cardigan has picked up steam and is now popular in every iteration from cropped to long, shrunken to oversized. While the cardigan has a reputation for being preppy or conservative, the current styling trends would say otherwise. Worn open or closed, the street style set is proving the style can be cool, chic and oftentimes actually sexy. And the best thing about these versatile styles is that they can be worn as tops, jackets or layering pieces, making them a true wardrobe hero.
If you want to get in on the current trend, here are 15 cardigan outfit ideas to emulate. And if you don’t already have a cardigan from the 90’s you can dig out of your closet and breathe new life into, we’ve listed some of our new favorites to shop too.
Sleek & Sexy
Aimee Song makes an otherwise work-appropriate outfit look outright sexy. She paired her fitted cardigan with a maxi pencil skirt and white heels, leaving the cardigan half open for a cool, edgy vibe. Lightweight cardigans make great tops on their own or can be layered making them a great year round staple.
Wardrobe Hero
This chunky knit cardigan styled as a top is another great way to play with how you wear the sweater. Paired with classic pleated pants and sneakers, she’s taken an uptown style and gave it a cool, off-duty spin. This is a great casual outfit that also feels chic and versatile.
The Art of Layering
This cardigan is perfectly styled as a middle layer between a fitted white tee and leather jacket. Paired with washed down denim and boots, this is an outfit that can be worn daily!
A Classic Look
Pairing timeless wardrobe staples like this button-down sweater, high-waisted jeans and ballet flats is a perfect way to style your cardigan. It’s a beautiful, classic look will never go out of style!
Track Star
As far as cardigan outfits go, this one is truly of the moment for cooler weather. The cardigan worn open at the bottom and paired back to track pants merge two big trends in one look. Layer a trench coat or a heavier wool coat over it in the winter months to complete the outfit.
City Meets Aprés Ski
This zip-up fair isle inspired cardigan is the perfect sweater weather look back to a sleek pair of leggings. Add a cozy layer with a turtleneck worn underneath. This look can go from the city to aprés ski and back this winter season.
Trans-Seasonal Dressing
I love the stylish look of this cropped cardigan layered over a white tank top and tucked into a pristine cargo skirt. In heather grey, this versatile sweater transcends seasons and can be styled this way year round.
Celine-like Look
For casual outfits that feel a bit more dressed up, try wearing a dress shirt layered underneath a buttoned up cardigan. Let the shirt collar peak out a bit and pair with your favorite blue jeans for a Celine-like look.
Pop of Color
If you’re someone who likes a pop of bright color, a red cardigan should be right up your alley! This is a great casual look with black leggings and sneakers. A slightly oversized zip up cardigan is a great option as an outer layer over a basic tee.
Deep V Cardigan
A deep v-neck cardigan tucked into wide-leg pants is a chic way to style your look. White jeans can be worn year-round and this outfit is proof. Style with black boots or heels to elevate your outfit.
Cozy Cabin Vibes
This neutral fair isle cardigan is giving cozy cabin vibes. Paired with straight leg jeans and a basic tee, it’s an outfit that feels classic and modern at the same time. Pair with loafers or boots and a leather tote to finish off the look.
Military-Inspired Look
This button down cardigan with utility pocket details looks great with high waisted paper bag pants for an authentic military-inspired fit. You can simply finish off the look with a belt and matching bag for an instantly chic style.
Date Night Style
A new update to a lightweight v-neck cardigan is this tie-front version. Worn alone it’s a super sexy look for a night out. Or layered with a tank underneath it’s a super cute layering piece.
Longline Layering
Long cardigans are great layering pieces that doubles as a very lightweight jacket. Wearing an open cardigan like this one can easily be styled over pants, a dress or a mini skirt. It’s a great way to get a lot of use out of this super versatile piece.
Cropped Crew + Leather Shorts
This cropped crew neck cardigan looks incredibly chic styled back to leather shorts and tights. It’s a great juxtaposition between a classic style with edgier pieces and a chic modern way to style your cardigan.
