A cardigan is a sweater with an open front that can be closed at the center. You put on a cardigan but you poke your arms through the sleeves rather than pulling it over your head. Cardigans often feel very thin and light thanks to the superfine plastic-y knit so they’re perfect for layering.
The History of Cardigans
The cardigan , a style named after James Brudenell, 7th Earl of Cardigan, the British Army major general who commanded the Charge of the Light Brigade during the Crimean War. The design was born from the woollen knitted waistcoats worn by British officers in and around 1918. Still, it made a name for itself when legend has it that Lord Cardigan’s coat tails were scorched off accidentally in a fire, resulting in the open-front style.So, from a sleeveless knitted tunic, we moved into a front-opening, loose sweater and finally to what is now quite free-form. Coco Chanel helped popularize the cardigan for women and turned it into a symbol of comfort and modernity.
And, in the ’20s and ’30s, cardigans were cool regardless of sex as a means to convey a preppy Ivy League collegiate sensibility. Over the decades — in the 1950s and ’60s, then again in the ’90s and early aughts — that cardigan kept popping up as an essential piece. (It’s beloved closet staple even spans generations in terms of comfort, versatility, and the test of time
Fabrics Commonly Used in Cardigans
Cardigans are made of different types of material, adding warmth and style to any outfit. The most commonly used material and cardigans are as follows.
- Wool is highly used as cardigans (sweaters ) because of being soft and warm with natural insulation.when it comes to premium cardigans we can go with merino wool and labswool
- Cotton Light, breathable and versatile suitable for layering as the temperature climbs.
- Cashmere Super luxury fabric that is soft and light ideal for premium cardigans, if you like to sit in comfy with a touch of luxury.
- Blended Fabrics A lot of cardigans in the modern world are produced from blends such as cotton-polyester or wool-acrylic which give it things like stretch and greater durability and easier care.
Key point
Synthetic Fibers (Acrylic, Nylon, Polyester) are cost-effective and easy to maintain as they hold up well against wrinkles and shrinkage.
Most Popular Types of Cardigans
1 Belted cardigan
A belted cardigan is like no other, with the front-opening button placket from the collar to its full length and a slick belt for the ultimate grace. This piece offers just a trace of style and femininity through its cloth while offering an extremely comfy and exclusive approach to the year-round season. What could be better about the lengthy belted cardigan is that it is just as comfortable as it is fashionable. It may be worn with casual clothing in the daylight and party attire in nightclubs and dining rooms, and will keep you warm and stylish for all of them. It is a belt on which many of them may be numerical and which will link beautifully at the waist, keeping you where it is narrowest and providing a true, relaxed, and shiny appearance. Due to the warm stick season, it is ideal for a stylish change in weather, filling in the ideal intermediate between salient efficacy and chic.
2 Button-down cardigan
The button-down cardigan is the go-to sweet piece for any lady who loves classic style but is still packed with trends. This fabulous cardigan, in a stylish combination of soft yarn, features long sleeves and a sassy collar. We love its oversized buttons at the front, its knitted beige style, and it will look great with anything. SLIM BELT Put on, or drape this cardigan over your shoulders. Light enough to fit in anywhere you go. Belts cinch the waist of any outfit you throw on underneath it with a belt detail that won’t leave your simple look wanting. Ideal for all seasons. Wear With Your Favorite Top, Dress, and Bottom.
3 Shawl Collar Cardigan
Shawl Collar Cardigan: a knitted jacket, secured with two buttons at the throat, and having a broad soft collar which turns back into lapels forming an unbroken line; it is worked on the same principle as a costumer (d. 1858). This little lapel-like collar detail is what sets it apart from the traditional old lady cardigan and makes for a more serious and substantial piece. The softness and ease of a Cardigan with the timeless styling of a Shawl Collar. It is a mens casual blazer, an alternative to a men’s classic separate jacket, and a staple of any man’s look in both formal and everyday wear.
4 Chunky Knit Cardigan
A thick wool cardigan, are knitted thick and heavy clothes of large thread or yarn offering warmth and coziness. The yarn that’s “chunky” is simply weighted to be thicker-than-standard, and it yields a heavier piece of fabric. This type of cardigan is usually loose, slouchy and comfortable – perfect to wear in colder weather. Thick knit cardigans rank among the winter and autumn favorites as bestsellers, both for their ability to keep you warm while also making you look good. These are the cardigans that come with those oversized buttons, dropped shoulders and ribbed trim to yield such a lazy, slouchy look. This superlux yarn is warm and soft but has enough heft to give you a wonderful textural, layered look that’s perfect for everyone’s easy going style.
5 Long line cardigans
Longline cardigans are fashionable alternatives that go as long as the mid-thigh, knee, or longer for a contemporary fit and feel. Constructed from soft knits, they have an open-front style and a rise-and-fall hem, plus are available in multiple prints to accentuate your look. These cardigans are designed with a flattering shape to drape over and fit you just right, covering everything but the perfect amount of skin! Perfect for colder temperatures, they give you the right amount of warmth without being too thick. Available in chunky wool, fine-gauge, and cable knits, longline cardigans can be perfect for a casual day or appropriate office attire – either way, you will stay comfortable while still looking great! The longer hem offers extra coverage, making it perfect for cool days and nights.
6 Cropped Cardigan
A cropped cardigan is a shorter variation of the standard cardigan and usually extends up to the waist or slightly above. This modern classic style can be worn open or done up and can be teamed with tops, dresses, or high-waisted pants, jeans, or skirts. Chic and flattering in a shorter length, pair with casual or style over and dress for modern appeal. It is great to pair with a sleeveless dress, or tank tops and pants, clubwear outfit, cardigan sweater for women: short length design, women’s cardigans crop long sleeve, casual and sexy crop smallest cardigans with full sleeves, and short length is enough to enhance your taste. Perfect for those in-between months, this beauty can be worn year-round and for any occasion! This cropped cardigan can be worn in so many ways; it’s the perfect piece!
7 Kimono cardigan
A Kimono cardigan is a modern and stylish fashion piece that draws inspiration from traditional Japanese clothing, particularly the haori jacket. Often designed in a T-shape, this cardigan blends cultural elements with contemporary fashion to create a unique and versatile garment. The flowing lines and relaxed silhouette provide a comfortable yet fashionable look, making it suitable for both men and women. The vibrant, often intricate designs found on Kimono cardigans can include floral patterns, geometric shapes, or other traditional motifs, adding a cultural touch to any wardrobe. While the Kimono cardigan resembles the Japanese haori, the use of the term “cardigan” typically refers to its lighter, more casual form, which is often made from knitted or soft fabric. This makes it ideal for layering over different outfits, from casual jeans and t-shirts to more formal dresses. Kimono cardigans can be worn as a statement piece or simply to add an ethnic flair to your everyday look. With their easy-going fit and elegant style, they offer a great way to incorporate traditional Japanese influences into modern fashion, creating a fusion of comfort, culture, and contemporary design.
8 Hooded cardigan
The hooded cardigan is perfect for those days that you’re going to be out in the cold but still want added comfort and style. It’s a cute, adorable way to keep your hair from turning all snow-covered and sometimes even dry in the Winter weather or to make sure that your ears are snug as a bug inside that little hood of its. Its understated olive green color is a classic and timeless look that goes with any outfit. Two big pockets are available on each side and are convenient to keep your hands warm or carry stuff. The full sleeves not only keep you warm, but also give maximum comfort. Whether you are just running an errand or relaxing at home, the piece will provide the warmth you need without compromising style. Combining smart styling and some rugged details, this wool charley is definitely going to become a classic! And soft, along with comfortable to wear, so try on this waist cincher/shapewear that will make you look better by finishing your look and feel free all over the day. Right here is the best expression of its clothes: a Hooded cardigan with pockets.
9 Zip-up cardigan
A zip-up cardigan is a convenient and stylish wardrobe staple that offers the perfect blend of style, convenience, and comfort. Including a front zipper allows you to easily adjust the natural waist opening, whether you choose to wear it open and loose or zipped up for more warmth you’re after a zipped cardigan in cotton or merino wool, these chaps are fabulous as an extra layer of warmth for casual looks or smartening up if the occasion calls. Wear it with jeans, over your favorite dress, or paired with workout attire for superior style and unmatched comfort, no matter the season. Its lightweight and breathable material also makes it perfect for early chilly mornings or late nights. A zipped cardigan is definitely a versatile item that can take you from day to night, perfect for a variety of events.
10 Net cardigan
A net cardigan is a lightweight and breathable piece, perfect for adding a touch of texture to your outfit. Made from open-knit fabric, it provides a relaxed, airy feel, making it ideal for warmer weather or layering over a simple top or dress. Its versatile design adds a stylish, casual element to any look, offering both comfort and elegance. Whether you’re heading to the beach or out for a casual day, a net cardigan is an easy choice for a fashionable, laid-back style. Its open-knit structure not only keeps you cool but also adds a subtle, sophisticated charm to your ensemble, making it a must-have for effortless summer style. Perfect for layering over swimwear or pairing with jeans, it effortlessly transitions from day to night.
Cardigan Style Tips
- Accessorize Your Cardigan: Enhance your cardigan style by pairing it with unique accessories like handbags, scarves, belts, or jewelry. This will elevate the overall look and add a personal touch.
- Opt for a Simple Color Scheme: Stick to a neutral or basic color palette when selecting your cardigan and outfit. This will help emphasize the cardigan’s design and create a clean, polished appearance.
- Match Cardigans with Tops: For a cohesive look, choose cardigans that blend seamlessly with the color of your top. This creates a harmonious and stylish ensemble.
- Footwear Choices: Complement your cardigan with fashionable footwear, such as sleek stilettos or chic pumps. Alternatively, for a more relaxed look, pair your cardigan with comfortable sneakers.
By following these tips, you can create a balanced and stylish outfit that highlights your cardigan while keeping the overall look chic and trendy.
