It's funny to think that just a few years ago, wearing a cardigan wouldn't have crossed your mind. In fact, the only time I really wore them was when I'd visit my granny, and she'd insist I pop one on "in case I got a chill." Fast-forward to 2021, and I'm not exaggerating when I say that I wear a cardigan outfit every single day—and I'm not the only one.
Having been affectionately adopted by fashion types, cardigans are now a bona fide wardrobe staple and generally considered to be a classic autumn item. You’ll always use it since it will never go out of style. I’ve come to notice as well that when you want to be comfortable and cosy, a cardigan has more of that "I still tried” factor than a basic jumper.
I also think cardigans are more versatile than any other knitwear. Wear them on their own as a top, with a vest underneath tucked into jeans, or open to show off whatever ensemble you have on underneath. Truly, the options seem to be endless, and I love nothing more than seeing influencer's cardigan outfits to inspire my own wares. Below, I've pulled together seven cardigan outfits I think tick all the boxes. Scroll on to see them, and you'll never overlook the humble cardigan again.
ADD TAILORED TROUSERS
Style Notes: One of the easiest ways to dress up a cardigan is to wear it with a pair of tailored trousers. Here, I love how Abi has created a laid-back but incredibly elevated look centred around her lime cardigan. The colour combination is sublime.
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LAYER OVER DRESSES
Style Notes: Add a cardigan to your favourite dress, and you'll create a look that's pulled-together but that looks entirely effortless. This is particularly useful if you want to achieve Jeanne Damas's French-girl aesthetic, as cardigans form an integral part of all her outfits.
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PAIR WITH LEATHER
Style Notes: Come autumn, the chicest fabric pairing I can think of is wool and leather—as evidenced here by Monikh. Wear a buttoned style as a top, and pair it with a leather jacket for a look that'll carry you through from weekend brunch to impromptu drinks. All you need to do is add classic denim.
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GO TONAL
Style Notes: One of my favourite and most-utilised styling tricks is wearing one colour top to toe, and Minnie hits the nail on the head with her combination of a creamy cardigan tucked into ecru jeans. So chic.
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UPDATE YOUR SUMMER SKIRTS
Style Notes: There's no need to pack away your summer skirts. Throw a chunky knitted cardigan and a pair of flat track-sole Chelsea boots into the mix, and even your breeziest skirts will feel autumn-appropriate.
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WEAR AS A TOP
Style Notes: Cool fashion types love wearing their cardigans as a top, but you needn't opt for bitted styles to achieve the look. Marianne's slouchy wrap cardigan gives her look effortless appeal.
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POP YOUR COLLAR
Style Notes: Another advantage of wearing cardigans over jumpers is that you can unbutton them to reveal exciting pieces underneath. Sara is a master at layering her knits with her pretty blouses and shirts—make like her and ensure your collar stays over the top of your cardigan.
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Next Up: 11 Autumn Style Staples I Rely On Year After Year
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