Cardigans Have Reached Cult Buy Status: 7 Ways to Wear Them

cardigan-outfits-247880-1677604522969-main

(Image credit: @jessieandrews)

The word "cardigan" may not have garnered much excitement in the past, but the knitwear staple has been thrust into cult buy status in recent years. Khaite’s now iconic Scarlet cardigan—made famous the moment Katie Holmes was snapped wearing it with a coordinating cashmere bra on the streets of New York back in 2019—remains just as in demand four years after its conception. Other luxury brands such as Chanel and Saint Laurent have been putting a designer spin on cardigans, finishing them with printed patterns and ruffle details that are taking them to the next level.

Fashion people have been adopting these new, directional cardigans into their wardrobes as well as styling more basic styles in fashion-forward ways that solidify their place as a key wardrobe essential. Ahead, see seven ways insiders are wearing cardigan outfits and shop pieces inspired by each of their looks.

cardigan-outfits-247880-1677550589144-image

(Image credit: @leiasfez)

Wear your cardigan like you might normally wear a blazer, layering it over a T-shirt and pants. Opt for a bold color like the green spotted here. 

cardigan-outfits-247880-1677550587426-image

(Image credit: @sylviemus_)

Move a classic cardigan shape forward by leaving the top and bottom buttons undone. Then, add a slip skirt and trench coat for a sleek, easy transitional look.

cardigan-outfits-247880-1677604533618-main

(Image credit: @jessieandrews)

Ready to hop on the "no pants" trend? Start with a pair of black tights and heels, and then add a cardigan with some interesting details like this version finished with ruffles and trim.

cardigan-outfits-247880-1677553698706-main

(Image credit: @fakerstrom)

Keep things simple by pairing a boxy cardigan with jeans and ballet flats. This is a moment to let an expertly crafted piece like the Khaite cardigan shine.

cardigan-outfits-247880-1677553924576-main

(Image credit: @endlesslyloveclub)

It doesn't get easier than pairing a cardigan with a pair of jeans. Secure just the buttons at the middle for a midriff-baring look.

cardigan-outfits-247880-1677600394125-main

(Image credit: @anoukyve)

There are some great sets on the market with pieces that include items such as matching tank tops and bras, which is a way to wear a cardigan that feels intentional and polished. Just add jeans and heels.

Next: 30 Finds From Net-a-Porter, Nordstrom, and Shopbop I Can't Stop Staring At

Associate Director, Special Projects

Kristen Nichols is the Associate Director, Special Projects at Who What Wear with over a decade of experience in fashion, editorial, and publishing. She oversees luxury content and wedding features, and covers fashion within the luxury market, runway reporting, shopping features, trends, and interviews with leading industry experts. She also contributes to podcast recordings, social media, and branded content initiatives. Kristen has worked with brands including Prada, Chanel, MyTheresa, and Luisa Via Roma, and rising designers such as Refine and Tove, and her style has been featured in publications including Vogue.com, Vogue France, WWD, and the CFDA. Before Who What Wear, Kristen began her career at Rodarte, where she worked on assistant styling, photo shoots, and runway shows, and at Allure, where she moved into print and digital editorial. She graduated from the University of Southern California, where she studied art history and business, and currently lives in New York.