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Cardigans will forever be a classic staple in any wardrobe and are readily available in a ton of different materials, styles, and colors.
Below we are featuring a few key cardigan sweater options that can help freshen up your Fall and Winter wardrobes. We have included both long and short cardigans that will not only give you endless styling options but are also timeless and can be worn for a variety of occasions.
We are also showing both button-front and plain open-style fronts in lightweight and medium-weight knits that will make great layering pieces in any type of weather. Other options include the classic cable knit, a lace-trimmed, knee-length option, and a unique, on-trend brass button option that is accessorized enough on its own to simply pair with a white tee and jeans.
Our Favorite Cardigan of 2024
a.Jesdani Cardigan — Best Overall
This slim-fitting knit cardigan has a soft, stretchy feel that gently skims the figure without being too clingy or oversized for the perfect flattering fit. The crew-style neck looks great paired with a classic button-down top where the collar and cuffs can peek through and it makes a great piece to keep at the office when the A/C dips too low.
Pros
- This sweater is available in both regular and plus sizes
Cons
- If you prefer a longer cardigan another option might be better
Amazon Essentials Cardigan — Runner Up
Similar to our option above, this cardigan is lightweight and made to be slightly fitted to the body without being too tight or too loose. This cardigan hits at the hips, easily layers over lightweight tees and tanks, and its cotton stretch fabric allows for easy movement. It also functions as a great layering piece to keep you warm while indoors.
Pros
- This cardigan can also be worn over the shoulders for a unique styling effect
Cons
- The length of the cardigan may hit higher or lower depending on height
GRACE KARIN Cardigan — Honorable Mention
For a slightly more elongated version, this long knitted cardigan is a great option. The soft, stretchy material will keep you comfortable and its breathable fabric will keep you cool. This cardigan is a great everyday piece to layer over any of your tees, tanks, or dresses and is long enough to pair with leggings and skinny jeans.
Pros
- This cardigan has two convenient front pockets
Cons
- This cardigan has no buttons
MEROKEETY Cardigan — Best Staple Piece
This cable knit option is a great piece to get you in the Fall mood. Made from 100% acrylic, this medium-weight cardigan will not feel scratchy or hot on the skin and its loose fit allows for easy layering. Flattering on all body types, this cardigan is the perfect grab-and-go piece when running out of the house and its two front pockets help keep it casual.
Pros
- The cardigan has functional buttons down the front
Cons
- Consult the size chart to ensure correct sizing
Tickled Teal Cardigan — Cutest Design
This mustard color cardigan has all kinds of Fall vibes and is a great layering piece to freshen up any wardrobe. The cardigan is made from a soft, stretchy material and is very light in weight with lace trim detailing on the cuffs and bodice. It also has a generous knee length for a flattering line and looks great when paired with jeans, jean shorts, and a higher bootie to continue the lengthening effect.
Pros
- This cardigan can also double as a swimsuit cover-up
Cons
- This cardigan may not keep you very warm
OmicGot Cardigan — Most Stylish
This chunky knit, open-front cardigan sweater has a unique pointelle knit that keeps it soft and comfortable. It’s slightly above the knee length is super versatile and makes it easy to go from the office to dinner with a simple shoe and accessory change. This cardigan also has a slightly loose and flowy fit to cover what you need without being too bulky.
Pros
- This cardigan comes in 15+ color options
Cons
- If you prefer buttons, another option might be better
NENONA Cardigan — Also Consider
Another unique take on the classic cardigan is this cotton-blend option with golden bronze snap-style buttons up and down the front. Wear this cardigan both buttoned and unbuttoned depending on the look you are going for and its classic v-neck front will allow you to showcase your top and any necklaces paired with it.
Pros
- This cardigan comes in great fall and winter color options
Cons
- This cardigan has no pockets
Buying Guide: Cardigans
Cardigans are all around the year clothing items. However, they are the perfect pieces of clothing in early fall to winter when an additional layer of warmth is required. Cardigans are now available in such diverse options that purchasing one can be a nerve-wracking experience.
Are Cardigans for Women Worth Buying?
Cardigans are versatile clothing items, and women must possess at least one cardigan. Here are some of the reasons why cardigans are essential items for your wardrobe.
To spruce up any outfit
Cardigans are multi-purpose clothing items and can be worn on many different occasions. Whether you want to tweak a casual outfit or add a sophisticated outlook to formal attire, cardigans come in handy in all cases. A vibrantly colored or flamboyantly printed cardigan can make a simple outfit stand out.
Complements all body types
Whether petite or plus-sized, a cardigan looks appealing on all body types. Thus, cardigans can be worn by women of all shapes and sizes without worry.
Hides imperfections
A cardigan can be a great way of concealing all the imperfections that otherwise make you conscious or insecure, whether your curves, your muffin top, the cleavage, back acne, or any other imperfection. A cardigan is a stylish way of hiding it all while looking glam. Thus, a cardigan also boosts self-confidence.
All year round clothing items
Cardigans can be worn throughout the year, whether spring or summer, fall or winter. A cardigan is a staple clothing item. The only difference is the choice of fabric. While summer cardigans are made from light, breathable fabric, winter cardigans are thick and warm.
Winter cardigans keep you warm
The winter cardigans are made of polyester and wool and play an instrumental role in keeping you warm on cold winter days. They tend to keep you coy without adding too much bulky on your shoulders.
What Factors to Look For When Buying Cardigans for Women?
Material
The choice of material for cardigans is entirely dependent on the season. The material ought to be weather appropriate, or wearing one will be no less than a nuisance.
Wool, cashmere, and synthetic fabrics like polyester and acrylic are the perfect choice for fall and winter cardigans as they keep you warm and cozy. However, these materials are not suitable for spring and summer cardigans. Cotton, linen, and other lightweight and breathable fabric are appropriate for warmer weather.
Fit
Cardigans are available in a variety of fits. These include oversized, form-fitting, cropped, and boyfriend fits. The ideal cardigan fit is the one that highlights the body silhouette and complements it. Thus, the choice of fit is an entirely personal preference.
Sleeves
Most cardigans have long, full-length sleeves. However, there are some cardigans with three-quarter and elbow-length sleeves. The full sleeve cardigans are perfect for the winter, whereas the shorter sleeves work best in summer.
Length
The length of the cardigans is a crucial determinant. Cardigans vary in length with torso level or cropped cardigans, knee-length and floor-length ones. Knee-length cardigans are perfectly versatile and can be styled in diverse manners.
Pattern
Cardigans can be plain, printed, or patterned. Plain cardigans are versatile and can be styled in a variety of manners. On the other hand, printed ones can be a great way of adding some appeal to an otherwise monochrome outfit. Moreover, winter knit cardigans can be plain or patterned depending upon the knit type. The choice of the pattern depends upon the occasion as well as the personal styling preferences.
Washability
Most winter cardigans are not compatible with machine washing. However, they are highly inconvenient. It is better to choose cardigans compatible with machine washing and retain their color without wearing out or fading after a few washes.
Ladies Cardigan Styling Tips
Cardigans can be worn in different manners around the year, but the styling essentially depends upon the season and occasion. Here are a few cardigan styling tips.
- In winters, cardigans can be styled as jackets or layering to keep the style intact while also benefiting from the warmth.
- Chunky knit and buttoned cardigans can come in handy in winter.
- Summer cardigans are primarily lightweight and breathable. The cropped cardigan can look spectacular when paired with a mini dress or spaghetti-strapped crop top and shorts.
- Cardigans with tassels, pompoms, and fringes look effortlessly chic.
Women’s Cardigans Pricing
Coats and jackets can be exorbitantly expensive. However, cardigans aren't that expensive in comparison unless you opt for hand-knit cardigans, designer cardigans, or cardigans made of a luxe material like merino wool or cashmere. The price for such types of cardigans can go as high as several hundred dollars.
Most cardigans can be purchased in a price range of $20 to $40. However, it isn't uncommon to find some steal at as low as $15 in sales and promotions.
