It’s easy to say that jeans go with everything, but as someone who wears denim every day, I can confirm that’s not strictly true. Still, some pieces shine brighter when paired with jeans, and for me, cardigans are the perfect example.
There’s something so perfect about the mix: the softness of knitwear set against the structure of denim creates just enough contrast to feel interesting, while both share a casual spirit that keeps the pairing grounded. Unlike jumpers, which can sometimes feel a touch too laid-back, cardigans bring a smarter edge without tipping into formality. With the shift in seasons and a renewed desire to return to my favourite styling formula, I turned to Instagram for fresh inspiration.
Below, you’ll find five chic cardigan-and-jeans outfits I’ll be re-creating immediately.
Discover 5 Chic Cardigan and Jeans Outfits to Copy This Season
1. Leather Jacket + Cardigan + Belt + Jeans
Style Notes: As the weather cools, I find a slouchy cardigan layered beneath a roomy leather jacket to be the perfect combination. To avoid things looking too relaxed, I like to tuck the knit into my jeans and finish with a chunky belt for polish. For extra style points, metallic flats instantly elevate the look.
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Trust me: you'll come back to this roomy jacket trend all season.
Style this over a white tee or wear it on its own.
Khaite's Benny belt remains a fashion person's favourite.
These classic straight-leg jeans are some of the most-worn in my wardrobe.
Add some shimmer to your step.
2. Collared Cardigan + Graphic Tee + Jeans
Style Notes: Instead of reaching for a jacket, try layering a collared cardigan over a white tee. It’s a softer approach to autumn dressing, and works especially well in a playful shade—think the season’s buttery yellows—contrasted against the deep shade of denim, as seen on @lindseyholland.
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This also comes in grey, navy and brown.
Every great wardrobe starts with a fresh white tee.
These also come in seven other shades.
Trust me: high-vamp flats are set to be a key trend this autumn.
3. Colourful Cardigan + White Jeans + Loafers
Style Notes: Don’t pack away your white jeans just yet. Balance their freshness with a vibrant cardigan and suede loafers, which nod to cooler weather without losing lightness. Personally, I find cardigans look their neatest buttoned up and tucked in, and extra-chic when cinched with a studded belt.
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This also comes in five other shades.
Style with straight-leg jeans or wear it over a dress.
These also come in 10 other shades.
Style with white socks to give your look a preppy feel.
4. V-Neck Cardigan + Jeans + Heels
Style Notes: To me, a V-neck cardigan feels the most elevated, perhaps because of that subtle flash of décolletage. This neckline feels like a more natural pairing with heels or mules, making the trio of cardigan, jeans and heeled footwear one of the easiest ways to look dressed up whilst still staying comfortable.
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Layer this over a white tee or wear it on its own.
Honestly, these look more expensive than they actually are.
Style with jeans or wear with a sleek pencil skirt.
5. Fair Isle Knit + Blue Jeans + Loafers
Style Notes: When the chill sets in, nothing beats a cosy Fair Isle knit. To keep the heritage design looking modern, I like it best with straight-leg jeans and classic loafers, especially if they’re in this season’s favourite shade of red.
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I'm shopping this to style throughout winter's coldest days.
These come in three different lengths, so you can find your perfect fit.
There's something so chic about a square-toe flat.
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