As the cool breeze of autumn sweeps in, and even during those unexpectedly chilly summer nights, one fashion staple never seems to fall out of favor that is the trusty cardigan. This versatile garment has found its way into nearly every fashion-forward closet globally, regardless of climate or season.
With its cozy charm and universal appeal, the cardigan originates from a surprising corner of history. The term “cardigan” was first used to describe a knitted vest worn by British soldiers during the Crimean War in the 1850s.
It was named after James Brudenell, the 7th Earl of Cardigan and the commander of the Light Brigade. The Earl himself sported this style of knitwear during the Battle of Balaclava.
Over the years, however, the humble cardigan evolved from its military roots into a staple of civilian clothing, eventually becoming a symbol of chic comfort in fashion.
Why Are Cardigans A Must-Have For Your Wardrobe?
Aside from their inherent versatility that makes them perfect for dressing up or down, they also provide an easy layering option for various weather conditions.
Cardigans span the spectrum from the lightweight, short-sleeved cardigans perfect for a breezy summer night to the chunky, oversized knits that provide warmth during the coldest winter months. They come in various styles, fabrics, lengths, and fits, making them compatible with any outfit.
Furthermore, cardigans have a unique ability to express personal style. With such a variety of types, they can make a statement, whether it’s the classic elegance of a draped cardigan, or the trendy style of a kimono cardigan.
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What Is The Difference Between Men And Women’s Cardigans?
Cardigans, like many other types of clothing, can come in men’s and women’s styles. While both genders can wear cardigans, there are often some subtle differences in design, fit, and styling between men’s and women’s cardigans due to traditional fashion norms and body structure differences. Here are a few distinguishing features:
Fit And Sizing
Men’s cardigans tend to have a looser, boxier fit and are often designed to accommodate broader shoulders and a larger torso. The sizes typically follow men’s sizing standards.
On the other hand, women’s cardigans are usually designed with a more fitted or tapered cut to align with the contours of a woman’s body.
They may be nipped in at the waist or include darts and other tailoring techniques to fit a typically more curvaceous figure. Sizes for women’s cardigans generally follow women’s sizing standards.
Design And Styling
Men’s cardigans often lean towards simpler and more minimalistic designs. They usually come in solid, neutral colors, and patterns are often restrained, such as a classic argyle. Men’s cardigans also frequently have a V-neck design, often intended to be worn over a collared shirt.
Women’s cardigans come in various styles, colors, and patterns. They may include details like lace, decorative buttons, ruffles, or other feminine touches. In addition to the classic V-neck, you can find women’s cardigans in various necklines, including crew, scoop, and boatneck.
Closure
It is a subtle difference but can be a tell-tale sign. When buttoned, men’s cardigans traditionally have buttons on the right side and holes on the left. Women’s cardigans, conversely, usually have buttons on the left and holes on the right.
While these general differences exist due to traditional gender norms in fashion, it’s important to note that clothing, including cardigans, can be worn in versatile ways, transcending these norms. One’s comfort and personal style are paramount when choosing a cardigan or other clothing.
28 Different Types Of Cardigans
1. Crewneck Cardigan
This crewneck style has a round, close-fitting neckline, perfect for showcasing necklaces or scarves. Typically, it’s a button-down, allowing you to wear it open or closed.
Suitable Occasions: They are great for casual outings, dates, or semi-formal workplaces.
Styling Tips: Pair a crew neck cardigan with a cute camisole and high-waist jeans. Add a statement belt to accentuate your waist.
2. V-Neck Cardigan
As the name suggests, it has a V-shaped neckline, ideal for layering over collared shirts or showing off statement jewelry. This type often comes with buttons.
Suitable Occasions: They are perfect for formal settings, office environments, or smart-casual events.
Styling Tips: Wear your V-neck cardigan over a collared shirt for a professional and polished look. Add a string of pearls for a touch of elegance.
3. Chunky Knit Cardigan
This cardigan is known for its thick, cozy fabric and provides excellent warmth and comfort. Its oversized look pairs well with fitted bottoms.
Suitable Occasions: They are best for relaxed social gatherings or casual days out.
Styling Tips: Pair a chunky knit cardigan with skinny jeans to balance the volume. Add boots and a scarf for a cozy look.
4. Duster Cardigan
It is a long cardigan that usually reaches below the knee. Its length provides a sophisticated touch to casual outfits.
Suitable Occasions: They are great for casual weekends, travel, or office settings.
Styling Tips: Wear your duster cardigan with a fitted top and skinny jeans to maintain a streamlined silhouette. Heeled boots or sandals can add a touch of sophistication.
5. Draped Cardigan
This cardigan features fabric that falls loosely at the front, often open without buttons. The draping can create a relaxed and stylish look.
Suitable Occasions: They fit well for shopping trips, casual get-togethers, or laid-back office environments.
Styling Tips: You may pair a draped cardigan with a fitted tee and jeans for a relaxed yet stylish look. Add a long necklace to complete the look.
6. Lace Cardigan
This elegant cardigan features delicate lace patterns. It’s perfect for dressing up a simple outfit or adding a touch of sophistication.
Suitable Occasions: They are perfect for parties, weddings, or romantic dates.
Styling Tips: Wear a lace cardigan over a solid dress to showcase the delicate details. A statement clutch and heels can add a touch of glam.
7. Waterfall Cardigan
Named for the cascading fabric at the front, this cardigan offers a relaxed, flowing silhouette. It’s often worn open, making it great for layering.
Suitable Occasions: They are great for casual Fridays at work, weekend outings, or informal social events.
Styling Tips: Pair a waterfall cardigan with a simple tee and fitted pants. The flowing fabric of the cardigan adds a touch of drama to your look.
8. Boyfriend Cardigan
Borrowed from the boys, this cardigan is typically long, loose, and cozy. It offers a relaxed, casual look.
Suitable Occasions: They are best for relaxed social gatherings, study sessions, or running errands.
Styling Tips: Wear a boyfriend cardigan with a fitted tee and leggings. This style is longer and looser, so balancing it with tighter-fit clothing can create a chic, effortless look.
9. Belted Cardigan
This cardigan features a belt at the waist, creating a flattering silhouette. It’s often medium to long.
Suitable Occasions: They are perfect for office environments, formal settings, or dinner dates.
Styling Tips: Wear a belted cardigan with a fitted dress or high-waist pants. The belt can help to define your waist and create a flattering silhouette.
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10. Shawl Collar Cardigan
Featuring a turned-over collar that drapes down the front, this cardigan offers a stylish, cozy look. It’s an excellent choice for adding a touch of sophistication.
Suitable Occasions: They are perfect for cozy gatherings, casual Fridays at work, or chilly days out.
Styling Tips: They are perfect with a simple tee and jeans. The voluminous collar adds a touch of elegance and warmth.
11. Open-Front Cardigan
This open-front cardigan doesn’t have buttons or other closures, making it perfect for showing off your outfit underneath. It offers a relaxed, effortless vibe.
Suitable Occasions: They are best for casual weekends, shopping trips, or travel.
Styling Tips: Wear an open-front cardigan with a printed tee and jeans for a relaxed, stylish look. This style is perfect for showing off your underlayers.
12. Bolero Cardigan
This short cardigan typically ends above the waist, making it an excellent option for pairing with dresses. It’s often used to add a bit of coverage to formal wear.
Suitable Occasions: They are great for parties, formal gatherings, or weddings.
Styling Tips: Pair a bolero cardigan with a cocktail dress or a formal gown. This style is short and sweet, designed to showcase your dress while providing some coverage.
13. Hooded Cardigan
Featuring a hood for added warmth and style, this casual cardigan is perfect for a relaxed, sporty look.
Suitable Occasions: They are great for casual outings, hikes, or sporty events.
Styling Tips: Pair a hooded cardigan with sporty attire, like joggers and a tank top. This style adds a cool athleisure vibe to your outfit.
14. Zip-Front Cardigan
This cardigan features a zipper instead of buttons, giving it a casual, sporty vibe. It’s easy to slip on and off, making it a convenient choice.
Suitable Occasions: They are best for casual get-togethers, travel, or running errands.
Styling Tips: Wear a zip-front cardigan with a casual tee and jeans. This style is easy to put on and take off, adding a sporty touch to your look.
15. Cable Knit Cardigan
This cardigan features a cable pattern, giving it a classic, cozy feel. It’s perfect for a warm, stylish winter look.
Suitable Occasions: They are great for cozy gatherings, holiday parties, or winter outings.
Styling Tips: Pair a cable knit cardigan with a turtleneck and fitted pants. This style is classic and warm, perfect for chilly days.
16. Tunic Cardigan
Longer than the average cardigan, this style often hits at the mid-thigh or lower. It’s great for pairing with leggings or skinny jeans.
Suitable Occasions: They are best for casual weekends, shopping trips, or travel.
Styling Tips: Wear a tunic cardigan with leggings or skinny jeans. This longer style works well with fitted bottoms and can create a relaxed, chic look.
17. Embroidered Cardigan
This cardigan features embroidered details, adding a unique, artistic touch. It’s a perfect choice for standing out in a crowd.
Suitable Occasions: They are perfect for parties, date nights, or casual Fridays at work.
Styling Tips: Pair an embroidered cardigan with a simple dress, jeans, and a tee. The embroidered details add a touch of flair to your outfit.
18. Printed Cardigan
This cardigan is a fun addition to any outfit, featuring all sorts of prints, from stripes to florals. It’s a great way to add visual interest to your look.
Suitable Occasions: They are great for casual get-togethers, dates, or shopping trips.
Styling Tips: Wear a printed cardigan with solid colors to let the print stand out. This style is a great way to add some fun to your outfit.
19. Fringed Cardigan
This cardigan features fringe details, usually at the hem or sleeves. It adds a bohemian, playful vibe to outfits.
Suitable Occasions: They are great for festivals, concerts, or boho-themed events.
Styling Tips: Pair a fringed cardigan with a boho dress or jeans and a tank top. The fringe adds a playful, bohemian touch.
20. Cashmere Cardigan
Made of luxurious cashmere wool, this cardigan is incredibly soft and warm. It’s perfect for adding a touch of luxury to your outfit.
Suitable Occasions: They are great for formal settings, dinner dates, or office environments.
Styling Tips: Wear a cashmere cardigan with a silk blouse and tailored pants. This luxurious style can elevate any outfit.
21. Oversized Cardigan
This cardigan is larger and looser than the regular fit. It offers a relaxed, comfy vibe and is great for cozy, casual outfits.
Suitable Occasions: They are great for cozy weekends, study sessions, or relaxed social gatherings.
Styling Tips: Pair an oversized cardigan with fitted bottoms to balance the proportions. This style is all about comfort and chic.
22. Faux Fur Cardigan
This cardigan features faux fur, often at the collar or cuffs. It’s perfect for adding a glamorous, luxurious touch.
Suitable Occasions: They are great for parties, date nights, or holiday gatherings.
Styling Tips: Wear a faux fur cardigan with a cocktail dress or jeans and a glamorous top. This style adds a touch of luxury to your outfit.
23. Ribbed Cardigan
This cardigan features a ribbed texture, adding interest and detail. It’s an excellent choice for a simple, stylish look.
Suitable Occasions: They are great for casual outings, work, or dates.
Styling Tips: Pair a ribbed cardigan with a fitted dress or high-waist jeans. The ribbing adds texture and interest to your look.
24. Longline Cardigan
Longer than a typical cardigan, this style hits below the hip or knee. It can elongate the silhouette and add a sophisticated touch.
Suitable Occasions: They are best for casual weekends, travel, or office settings.
Styling Tips: Wear a longline cardigan with a simple tee and skinny jeans. The length can elongate your silhouette.
25. Crochet Cardigan
This cardigan features a crochet knit, offering a unique, handmade look. It’s often lightweight and an excellent choice for summer or beach outings.
Suitable Occasions: They are perfect for beach outings, summer parties, or festivals.
Styling Tips: Pair a crochet cardigan with a sundress or over a bikini. This style is breezy and beachy.
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26. Batwing Cardigan
This cardigan features wide, loose sleeves that taper to the cuff. It’s a trendy option that adds a unique touch to outfits.
Suitable Occasions: They are great for shopping trips, casual get-togethers, or relaxed office environments.
Styling Tips: Wear a batwing cardigan with a fitted tank and jeans. The unique sleeve cut adds a trendy touch.
27. Sequin Cardigan
This cardigan features sparkling sequins, perfect for parties or when you want to stand out. It adds a glamorous touch to any outfit.
Suitable Occasions: They are great for parties, New Year’s Eve, or glamorous events.
Styling Tips: Pair a sequin cardigan with a bit of black dress or tailored pants and a silk blouse. This style is all about sparkle and shine.
28. Cape Cardigan
This style combines a cape and a cardigan, which drapes loosely over the shoulders and often features armholes. It adds a dramatic, fashion-forward vibe to outfits.
Suitable Occasions: They are perfect for cooler weather, fashion-forward events, or semi-formal occasions.
Styling Tips: Wear a cape cardigan with fitted bottoms and heeled boots. This style adds a dramatic flair to your look.
Tips For Maintaining And Cleaning Different Types Of Cardigans
Maintaining and cleaning your cardigans properly can extend their life and keep them looking their best. Here are some general tips, but always check the garment’s care label for specific instructions.
- Read The Label: Each cardigan should have a care label attached. It will indicate whether the item can be machine washed or requires hand or dry cleaning. It will also provide information on suitable water temperature and drying methods.
- Machine Washing: Use the gentle cycle and cold water to prevent shrinkage and color fading for machine-washable cardigans. Turn the cardigan inside out to protect buttons or other embellishments. Use a mild detergent and avoid using bleach unless necessary.
- Hand Washing: For hand-wash-only cardigans, fill a basin with cold water and add a small amount of gentle detergent. Submerge the cardigan and gently agitate the water with your hands to distribute the soap. Rinse thoroughly, but do not wring the cardigan, as this can distort the shape.
- Drying: Avoid using a machine dryer if possible, as the heat can cause shrinkage. Instead, lay the cardigan on a flat surface or on a clean towel. Start rolling it up to absorb excess water. Once you have done it, start unrolling and reshape the cardigan on a dry towel. Please leave it to air dry away from direct sunlight.
- Storage: Fold cardigans instead of hanging them to avoid stretching. Store them in a cool, dry place, and consider using cedar balls or lavender sachets to deter moths. Avoid storing cardigans in plastic bags, which can trap moisture and lead to mildew.
- Pilling: Over time, some cardigans may develop little balls of fuzz known as pills. These can be carefully removed using a fabric comb or shaver.
- Stain Removal: If your cardigan gets a stain, act fast. Dab the stain (don’t rub) with cold water or seltzer, and then apply a small amount of gentle detergent. Rinse and wash as normal.
- Dry Cleaning: Some cardigans may require dry cleaning, particularly from delicate fabrics like cashmere or silk. If in doubt, it’s always safer to dry clean.
What Are The Shopping Tips For Finding The Perfect Cardigan?
Shopping for the perfect cardigan involves understanding what you want and identifying quality pieces. Here are some tips to guide you:
- Understand Your Needs: Before you start shopping, determine what you need. Do you want a cardigan for casual wear or formal occasions? Do you prefer a lightweight cardigan for layering or a chunky knit for warmth? Answering these questions will guide your shopping.
- Know Your Size: It’s essential to know your measurements and what cardigan sizes correspond to them. If shopping online, refer to the brand’s size chart to ensure a fit.
- Consider The Material: The fabric can significantly influence your cardigan’s comfort, warmth, and durability. Natural fibers like cotton, wool, and cashmere are warmer and more breathable than synthetic fibers. However, some synthetic materials, such as acrylic and polyester, can be more durable and easier to care for.
- Check The Quality: Examine the cardigan carefully before purchasing. Check for loose stitches, pilling, or other signs of poor construction. If shopping online, read reviews to understand the product’s quality.
- Think About Color: Consider what colors complement your existing wardrobe. Neutrals like black, gray, navy, and beige are versatile and can pair with almost anything. However, a bright or patterned cardigan can add color and personality to your outfit.
- Style And Length: Cardigans come in a variety of styles and lengths. Consider what works best with your body shape and personal style. For example, a longline cardigan can elongate your silhouette, while a cropped cardigan might pair well with high-waisted jeans or dresses.
- Budget: Determine your budget before shopping and stick to it. Keep in mind that more expensive sometimes means better. You can find high-quality cardigans at various price points.
- Comfort Is Key: The perfect cardigan should look good and feel good. It shouldn’t be too tight or itchy. Always prioritize comfort.
- Versatility: If you’re trying to build a versatile wardrobe, opt for cardigans that can be dressed up or down and worn in various seasons.
A Quick Recap
Cardigans are an undeniably versatile and essential piece in any wardrobe. With an array of styles, materials, and fits, there is a cardigan for every person, style, and occasion. The right cardigan can significantly impact whether you’re keeping warm on a chilly day, adding a layered look to an outfit, or dressing up for a formal event.
Consider the material, style, fit, and versatility when shopping for your perfect cardigan. And once you’ve found the ideal piece, ensure you take proper care of it by following appropriate washing, drying, and storage instructions.
Ultimately, donning a cardigan is about expressing yourself and enhancing your style. So, happy styling, and enjoy the comfort, versatility, and timeless fashion that a well-chosen cardigan can offer!
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is A Cardigan?
A cardigan is a knitted garment with an open front, typically buttoned or zipped. They come in various styles, lengths, materials, and designs, offering multiple casual and formal wear options.
What Are The Different Types Of Cardigans?
Cardigans come in various types, including crewneck, V-neck, chunky knit, duster, draped, lace, waterfall, boyfriend, belted, and many more. Each style has unique characteristics and is suitable for different occasions.
How Should I Style A Cardigan?
The styling of a cardigan can vary greatly depending on its type, the occasion, and your style. You could wear a V-neck cardigan buttoned with a skirt for a vintage look or pair an oversized cardigan with jeans for a casual, comfy outfit.
How Should I Care For My Cardigan?
Care instructions depend on the material and specific characteristics of the cardigan. Always check the garment’s care label for best practices. Generally, most cardigans benefit from gentle washing, air drying, and being stored folded rather than hung.
How Can I Choose The Right Cardigan For Me?
Consider your needs, body shape, personal style, and the cardigan’s material, size, quality, color, style, and price. Try on different types to find what you feel comfortable in and what suits your style.
Can Men Wear Cardigans Too?
Cardigans are a versatile piece of clothing that anyone can wear, regardless of gender. For men, cardigans can offer a stylish layering selection in various styles, from chunky knit cardigans to sleek, slim-fit designs.
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