Sweaters
Feb 26, 2020

27 Cardigans That Are—Dare I Say It—Sexy?

by Lauren Eggertsen

Bet you never thought you'd read the words "sexy" and "cardigan" together in the same sentence, but according to pretty much every retailer at this given time, sexy cardigans are the It going-out top of 2020. When we say "sexy," we are referring to a more revealing take on the classic buttoned-up knitwear staple. Instead of crew-necks and minimal designs, we're now seeing plunging necklines, barely there closures, and crops so high, they almost look like bra tops.

To be clear, a cardigan can be sexy even if it's oversize, shows zero skin, and goes down to your knees. However, the 27 cute cardigans ahead are objectively living a little bit on the edge, pushing the boundaries of what a traditional cardigan looks like. These cardigans have big sexy energy. You'll see.

Urban Outfitters UO Joyce Ribbed Button-Down Cardigan

Urban Outfitters UO Joyce Ribbed Button-Down Cardigan ($49)

If this image doesn't convince you to buy this cardigan, I don't know what will.

Zara Soft Touch Cardigan

Zara Soft Touch Cardigan ($36)

You'll be needing the matching bra top as well.

Wilfred Free Alchemy Sweater

Wilfred Free Alchemy Sweater ($88)

Get ready to see a few star styles from Aritzia in this roundup.

Reformation Gellar Cardigan

Reformation Gellar Cardigan ($78)

Swap your white tee for this.

H&M Short Cardigan

H&M Short Cardigan ($15)

Pistachio still seems to be trending, and this $15 option will ensure you're participating in style.

Topshop Black and White Printed Crinkle Cardigan

Topshop Black and White Printed Crinkle Cardigan ($35)

Not to play favorites, but this is my favorite piece in the bunch.

Musier Paris Cardigan Clara

Musier Paris Cardigan Clara ($98)

Meet every French girl's favorite cardigan.

Callipygyian Keyhole Cardigan

Callipygyian Keyhole Cardigan ($150)

Those subtle keyholes make this look so expensive.

R13 Baby Cardigan

R13 Baby Cardigan ($450)

This cardigan will never go out of style.

L'Academie Mara Cardigan in Grey

L'Academie Mara Cardigan in Grey ($148)

Wearing this without a bra is daring, but we love it so much.

ASOS Sheer Panel Fine Rib Knit Cardigan

ASOS Sheer Panel Fine Rib Knit Cardigan ($40)

Paired with a sleek midi skirt, this cardigan is fancy enough to wear to a cocktail party.

Which We Want Campbell Knit Cardigan in Brown

Which We Want Campbell Knit Cardigan in Brown ($78)

Pretty sure I've never seen a polo like this before.

Wilfred New Plunge Front Cardiagn

Wilfred New Plunge Front Cardiagn ($138)

Currently, there's nothing I love more than a cardigan-and–bra top situation.

Alessandra Rich Wool Crystal Button Crop Cardigan

Alessandra Rich Wool Crystal Button Crop Cardigan ($785)

Alessandra Rich always makes the cardigans of my dreams.

H&M Cardigan With Ties

H&M Cardigan With Ties ($25)

A '90s-inspired look for the books.

Alexander Wang Zip Front Ribbed Sweater

Alexander Wang Zip Front Ribbed Sweater ($495)

I'm sorry, but this cardigan is the coolest thing I've seen all month.

LPA Lani Sweater in Nude

LPA Lani Sweater in Nude ($90)

This dramatic scoop neck will bring you tons of compliments.

Grlfrnd Francine Cardigan

Grlfrnd Francine Cardigan ($258)

This entire outfit is goals.

& Other Stories Ribbed Cropped Cardigan Top

& Other Stories Ribbed Cropped Cardigan Top ($59)

The peekaboo closure on this one is giving me all the feels.

Wilfred Casanova Cardigan

Wilfred Casanova Cardigan ($98)

How expensive does this look?

Wandering Cable Knit Cardigan

Wandering Cable Knit Cardigan ($437)

Suddenly I really don't want winter to end.

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