By now, we know the drill. If you're looking for elegant, understated and easy-to-wear outfit inspiration, French style is hard to beat. Somehow the average Parisian manages to take the items we've long had in our wardrobes (the Breton top, the straight-legged jean and the blazer, for example), and make it feel entirely new by adding a little je ne sais quoi.
Knitwear is no exception, and while it won't be cold enough for a chunky turtleneck much longer, one item we're wearing on repeat is the cardigan. Thanks to the likes of Katie Holmes and Zoë Kravitz, the cardigan is cool again, and French women are ahead of the curve when it comes to making button-down knits feel couture. So, where better to start looking for spring outfit inspiration than the French?
We always look to Franny for style inspo.
I've analysed the street style of Paris' savviest dressers to find the best and most fashionable ways to wear this season's hero knit, the cardigan, and I was not disappointed. Expect to see everything from classic to cropped cardigans paired with jeans, skirts and tailoring and, of course, the best accessories to finish your look. So keep scrolling for five ways to wear a cardigan, courtesy of France's most stylish.
1. THE CONTRAST-TRIM CARDIGAN + LOAFERS
Style Notes: Of course, we could count on Paris to give us a look reminiscent of Chanel's affinity for monochrome. Not only does this cardigan feel dressed up, but it manages to be casual-cool too with the simple addition of a white tee and loafers.
SHOP THE LOOK:
A quality white T-shirt is a wardrobe staple, and Arket is my go-to for good cotton basics.
A cardigan-meets-jacket that looks just as expensive with denim as it does with dresses.
All of the comfort of leggings with the flattering silhouette of tailored trousers.
There's something about that crystal embellishment that makes these loafers feel extra special.
2. THE CROPPED CARDIGAN + JEANS
Style Notes: The '90s and noughties gave us some questionable trends, but the cropped cardigan isn't one of them. The recent Y2K revival has brought the tight, mini cardi back to the runways (especially that risqué Jacquemus number), and as it turns out, it's the perfect piece to wear with ultra-high-waisted jeans.
SHOP THE LOOK:
The ideal length to wear tucked in or with a couple of buttons open.
Ultra-high-rise, straight-leg jeans that echo the shape and fit of every '90s It girl's denim of choice.
Until it's time for raffia basket bags, try an equally stylish (and weatherproof) woven bag in leather.
Comfy sock boots have been everywhere over the past couple of months, and for good reason.
3. THE BLACK CARDIGAN + PREPPY SHIRT
Style Notes: Aside from the knitted vest, there's no better piece of knitwear that lends itself better to preppy layering. To avoid the outfit from looking too much like a school uniform, swap checks for pinstripes and loafers for knee-high boots.
SHOP THE LOOK:
A soft and slouchy knit that you'll get infinite wear out of.
We'll be wearing this Frame shirt through to the summer with shorts and sandals.
How to wear a miniskirt the "grown-up" way.
In 2023, no wardrobe is complete without a pair of knee-high boots.
4. THE FLUFFY CARDIGAN + TAILORED TROUSERS
Style Notes: Any combination of a fluffy knit and fitted trousers will always look good, but head-to-toe tonal dressing is especially effective. Just add statement shoes and an embellished bag, and you've got an outfit for the weekend, for dinner plans, for shopping, for exploring the city…
SHOP THE LOOK:
Race you to the checkout. I have a feeling this cool cardigan won't stick around for long.
You can always count on Totême for the kind of timeless tailoring that makes its pieces wardrobe staples.
Remove the strap from this daytime shoulder bag, and hey presto, you've got an evening clutch.
I saw Alexa Chung in metallic Mary Janes, so now I want metallic Mary Janes.
5. THE PATTERNED CARDIGAN + MINISKIRT + BALLET PUMPS
Style Notes: That's right. The Parisian's favourite accessory to a miniskirt is a bare leg. Perhaps a little optimistic for a British spring, but once the temperature rises, make the most of the mild weather by pairing a printed cardigan with a mini and pumps (perhaps grab a coat just in case.)
SHOP THE LOOK:
There isn't a spring outfit that a trench coat like this can't significantly improve.
A fresh knit for the new season.
I see your denim mini and raise you one pleated tennis skirt.
One shoe style that the French always champion is the wearable flat but especially an elegant ballet pump. You'll find me in these for the foreseeable.
Up Next: I've Worked It Out: This Is How French Women Always Style Jeans
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