Women wearing open front cardigan with jeans and brown woven shoulder handbag.

How To Wear A Cardigan With Effortless Style

A cardigan can be a wardrobe staple. And, of course, there are so many ways to wear a cardigan. Today we will talk about how to choose a cardigan and wear it with effortless style.

Today I chose to share a short-sleeve button-front cardigan with a brown, white, and blue striped pattern. I love how the dark brown also borders the cardigan, too. It’s super cute and can be worn and styled in many different ways. 

Now let’s talk about the many ways to style and how to wear a cardigan. Of course, this will include short-sleeve and long-sleeve cardigans. 

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CARDIGAN – JEANS – PURSE

How To Wear A Cardigan

We all know the best thing about a cardigan is that you can wear it many ways. You may choose to wear it open or closed, depending on whether the front has an open front or buttons to close it. Some cardigans may even have a zipper. 

A button-up cardigan can be open and layered over a T-shirt, fitted camisole, or tank top. You can see how I chose to keep it open and layer a navy tank top to pull from the navy color in this cardigan. Of course, I could also wear a brown tee or tank top with it, too. 

Another option is to wear it buttoned up, or you could leave a few buttons open at the top and bottom for another look. Here, I show how I wore the cardigan open, closed, and unbuttoned at the top and bottom to give you three different looks.

I love how a cardigan gives you many relaxed, yet elevated ways to wear it.

Choosing Fabric And Texture

Choosing a fabric texture that is cozy and comfortable is also an important factor I look for when choosing a cardigan. I prefer a soft texture. This cardigan has a ribbed, lightweight sweater feel to it and is super comfortable. It also happens to be 100%cotton. 

Fabric texture is definitely an important factor when choosing a cardigan. I definitely stay away from fabrics that may irritate or feel itchy. Comfort and softness are the most important factors to me when choosing fabric textures in outfits. 

Choosing A Cardigan Fit And Length

When choosing a cardigan fit and length, think about the time of year and season. The short-sleeve cardigan I am wearing today is great for summer to early fall. You could also choose a three-quarter sleeve length or long-sleeve length for a warmer look.

While this cardigan has a more fitted look, you may also want a loose, relaxed, or roomy look. A longer length or oversized, bulky look is another option. Choose the style depending on the day, event, or look you are trying to achieve. 

Choosing Your Cardigan Color

Color options for a cardigan can be endless. You will find everything from soft neutrals to dark, bold colors. You may also opt for stripes, as I did here, or a fun pattern. 

Now, I do feel like you should choose a neutral basic as your first cardigan. This will go with many outfit options. Once you have a few basic colors, it’s okay to have fun and look for stripes or a fun pattern. It really depends on the look and style you are going for. 

Neutral colors such as white, cream, or gray are a great start to your wardrobe.

What Outfits To Wear With A Cardigan

The first way I would recommend wearing a cardigan – and one of my favorites – is with jeans. This cardigan certainly goes with many styles of jeans, from light jeans for a more summer look to dark jeans for an early fall look. 

Of course, you could also choose a cropped jean or trouser pants. Maybe you are going out for a day out on the town or going into the office for a workday. 

A jean skirt or shorts are also another great option to pair with a cardigan. Think about a casual summer day or a fun lunch date.

Or maybe you choose a maxi skirt to style with a cardigan. The cardigan-with-skirt outfit is cute for Sunday church or a special event when you need an elevated look.

A cardigan is very versatile and can be worn with many outfit options. 

Don’t forget The Accessories!

Woven Shoulder Bag

Let’s start with shoes. Think about sneakers, ballet flats, or a casual slip-on shoe. Sneakers are great for walking and comfort, while ballet flats add a cute, chic look. For fall and winter, a slip-on boot like an Ugg is a warmer option.

Jewelry, such as a dainty necklace and earrings, is also a fun accessory choice to add to your outfit. I enjoy wearing light jewelry for a more relaxed look. Of course, a dressier jewelry look can help elevate an outfit even more.

Finally, choosing a handbag or purse adds intentional detail to any outfit. I enjoy wearing crossbody handbags or carrying a small bag for a casual look or going out on the town. The brown woven shoulder bag you see here adds an elevated look to this cardigan outfit. 

Final Thoughts

Cardigan outfits offer endless possibilities and can be worn in every season, from spring and summer to fall and winter.  Cardigans can be kept casual or dressed up, and provide warmth when you need it. Comfort matters too  – choosing a soft, cozy fabric helps you stay comfortable all day long. Finally, adding accessories is the best part. You can have fun and add the additional style that you are looking for.

Adding a cardigan to your closet and wardrobe is one of the best choices you can make. Let me know in the comments – what is one of your favorite ways to wear a cardigan?


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