As the leaves turn golden and the air whispers of autumn, it's clear that cardigan season is upon us. There's something undeniably comforting and versatile about a good cardigan. It's the perfect transitional piece, offering warmth without the heaviness of a coat, and it seamlessly fits into any style, from casual to chic.
In this article, I'm excited to share five cardigan outfits I'll experiment with this season. These looks are easy to replicate and perfect for a variety of occasions, ensuring you stay stylish and comfortable as the temperatures dip. Here is how to style cardigans:
Outfit 1: Classic and Comfortable
The beauty of the cardigan outfits lies in their simplicity, and the classic combination of a white tee, jeans, and a neutral-colored cardigan epitomizes this. Start with a soft, plain white t-shirt – the cornerstone of any casual outfit. Pair it with your favorite jeans, skinny, boyfriend, or straight-leg; all work wonderfully. Now, layer a neutral cardigan over this. Think beige, grey, or soft pastels. This outfit works for a coffee run, a casual day at the office, or a relaxing weekend outing.
For accessories, keep it minimal. A delicate necklace or a pair of stud earrings adds just enough sparkle. Footwear is key for tying this look together – white sneakers for a sporty touch or ankle boots for something a little more polished. This outfit strikes the perfect balance between comfort and style, proving that sometimes, less is more. How to style a cardigan is no longer a problem!
Outfit 2: Office-Ready Elegance
When it comes to dressing for the office, a cardigan can be a game-changer, effortlessly elevating a professional look while offering comfort and ease. The key is to choose a fitted cardigan sweater that flatters your silhouette without being too snug. Opt for solid colors like navy, black, or deep burgundy for a polished appearance.
Pair your cardigan with a classic pencil skirt or tailored trousers. These bottoms offer a sleek, professional look that complements the softness of the cardigan. For skirts, a knee-length cut maintains professionalism while allowing for comfortable movement. If trousers are more your style, choose a pair that tapers slightly towards the ankle to create a modern, streamlined look.
Accessorizing is crucial in an office setting. A structured handbag in leather or a high-quality synthetic material adds a touch of sophistication. It's functional for carrying all your work essentials while contributing to the overall elegance of the outfit. Footwear should be both stylish and comfortable for those long hours at work. Modest heels, such as a kitten or block heels, provide a little height without compromising comfort. Alternatively, sleek flats or loafers can also complement this ensemble beautifully.
Jewelry should be understated yet refined. A pair of pearl earrings or a simple gold chain can add just the right amount of elegance without being distracting. A classic wristwatch is not only practical but also serves as a stylish accessory. Lastly, consider a silk scarf for a pop of color or pattern, which can be draped around the neck or tied onto your handbag for a chic finishing touch.
Outfit 3: Weekend Chic
Weekends call for outfits that combine comfort with style, and an oversized cardigan is perfect for creating such a look. The key to nailing this style is to balance the loose fit of the cardigan with more fitted pieces underneath. Start with a pair of leggings or skinny jeans. Leggings offer ultimate comfort and flexibility, while distressed denim adds a touch of edginess to the ensemble.
Choose an oversized cardigan in a soft knit – think chunky weaves or a cable knit pattern. Neutral shades like cream, gray, or camel are versatile and can be paired with various underlayers. Alternatively, a pop of color like mustard or forest green can brighten your weekend look.
Accessorizing this outfit adds a touch of personality and flair. Bold sunglasses – cat-eye frames or oversized aviators – protect your eyes and add a fashion-forward element to your look. Depending on the weather, a stylish hat, such as a fedora or a beanie, can elevate the outfit while offering practicality.
For footwear, opt for comfort with a stylish edge. Ankle boots, either flat or with a low heel, are a great choice for autumn days. For a more relaxed vibe, slip-on sneakers or loafers can work just as well.
Jewelry should be kept simple yet impactful. A long pendant necklace or a set of bangles can add a playful element to the outfit. Finally, consider a cross-body bag or a tote for a practical yet stylish way to carry your essentials, completing your chic weekend look. Also, try your hand at an oversized pompom sleeve cardigan!
Outfit 4: Evening Elegance
Evening events often call for a touch of glamour, and a cardigan can surprisingly fit this bill with a bit of creative styling. The secret lies in choosing a cardigan with sparkle or an interesting texture, making it more than just a casual layering piece.
Imagine draping a sparkly or luxuriously textured cardigan over a classic little black dress. This combination is not only stylish but also practical for cooler evenings. The cardigan should ideally be finer knit to maintain an elegant silhouette. Look for details like sequins, metallic threads, or even a lace overlay to elevate the cardigan from daywear to evening-ready.
Accessorizing is key in transforming this outfit into something fit for evening wear. Statement earrings, such as chandelier earrings or bold hoops, can draw attention to your face and add a touch of sophistication. Keep the neck bare to let the earrings shine, or opt for a delicate pendant if your cardigan's neckline is simple.
Footwear should be both elegant and complementary to the outfit. Heeled ankle boots or strappy sandals (weather permitting) are perfect choices. They offer a balance of style and comfort, making them ideal for events where you might be on your feet for extended periods.
A clutch or a small evening bag is essential for carrying your necessities. Choose one in a color that complements your cardigan, or go for a classic black or metallic shade for versatility. Finally, consider a belt to cinch in the waist of the dress for a more defined silhouette, especially if the cardigan is of a looser fit. A fringe ruana style shawl cardigan works well for this look.
Outfit 5: Layered for Cold Days
Staying warm and cozy becomes a priority when the temperature drops, but that doesn't mean sacrificing style. A thick, chunky cardigan layered over a turtleneck is perfect for cold days. Choose a cardigan in a heavy knit – cable knit, ribbed, or a wool blend are all great choices for maximum warmth and style.
The turtleneck underneath should be slim-fitting to balance the bulkiness of the cardigan. Solid colors work best for versatility; think classic shades like black, navy, or cream. This pairing keeps you warm and creates a sleek and sophisticated silhouette.
Winter accessories are not just practical; they can also be stylish additions to your outfit. A scarf in a solid color or a subtle pattern can add an extra layer of warmth and a pop of color. Gloves, particularly in leather or a soft knit, are both functional and fashionable. Choose a color that complements your cardigan for a cohesive look.
Footwear should be sturdy and appropriate for cold weather. Ankle boots are a great option, especially those lined or with a chunky sole. They offer warmth, comfort, and a touch of style. For particularly cold days, consider knee-high boots for extra warmth.
Finish off the outfit with a beanie or a stylish hat and a large tote or shoulder bag that can accommodate all your winter essentials. This outfit is practical for keeping you warm and ensures you stay stylish even on the coldest days. Western striped fringed ruana poncho sweater is perfect for layering!
FAQs:
Can I wear a cardigan in a formal office setting?
Yes, cardigans can be quite suitable for a formal office setting. Opt for a fitted cardigan in a neutral or dark color for a professional look. Pair it with tailored trousers or a pencil skirt, and complete the outfit with modest heels and a structured handbag for an office-appropriate ensemble.
How can I style a cardigan for an evening event?
To dress up a cardigan for an evening event, choose one with a bit of sparkle or an interesting texture. Layer it over a little black dress to add elegance. Accessorize with statement earrings, heeled boots or strappy sandals, and a chic clutch to elevate the entire look.