Why Cardigans Are the Ultimate Year-Round Fashion Must-Have
Updated: Dec 4, 2024
Cardigans may not seem like a high-fashion piece, but their versatility and comfort have made them an essential wardrobe staple for years.
The demand for them isn't slowing down, with the market expected to have a growth rate of 5.8% from 2023 to 2030, according to Cognitive Market Research. Since they can be worn as a layering item or a standalone article, they can be paired with any look, worn in any season, and styled in various ways. If you're still unsure about investing in one, here's why cardigans are the ultimate year-round fashion must-have:
Versatility
Cardigans are incredibly versatile, allowing you to wear them with all kinds of outfits. They're an easy way to jazz up a casual outfit or add a cozier touch to something more dressy. A Barefoot Dreams cardigan showcases how it can look great with a wide range of looks for any occasion. Pair it with a simple T-shirt and jeans to add fun to a plain ensemble. Throw it on over a sundress for a cute, feminine vibe for daytime or over a little black dress to stay warm after a night out. You can even put it on over your favorite pajama set for a cozy night in. The Regular CozyChic Lite Ribbed Island Wrap Cardigan can look chic while still being understated, while the Sand Washed Knit Cardi offers a relaxed and laid-back aesthetic. You don't have to think too hard about what to pair your cardigan with; you can grab it before leaving the house and wear it over anything, and it will still elevate your look.
Diverse styles
Cardigans are versatile in that they can be worn with a wide range of ensembles, but they're also diverse themselves. They can be long, cropped, oversized, slim-fit, thick, light, patterned, plain, textured, and more. If you aren't satisfied with one cardigan for multiple outfits, you can have a variety of styles and aesthetics for different occasions. InStyle's cardigan outfit ideas guide highlights the many ways you can wear them. Cinch a loose one with a statement belt, button it up and slip it off the shoulders, layer it under a blazer, or wear it like a crop top.
Year-round comfort
Aside from being able to wear them with various outfits, you can also put on a cardigan during any season. They add warmth and style if you're going somewhere for autumn or winter. A thicker cardigan can be worn under heavier coats when outdoors and serve as a cozy layer when inside. The summer season or the Miami heat doesn't have to stop you from slipping one on; you can put on a cardigan in case the nights get chilly or even a light and airy knit combined with a breezy outfit. Some cardigans can even be worn on their own, much like a button-down top, which can match nicely with spring weather. You don't even have to wear it the usual way. You can loosely tie the sleeves around your neck for a preppy look that won't make you feel too warm.
Laid-back luxury
Quiet luxury has been a hot trend in the fashion world, focusing on understated and sophisticated pieces that exude luxury without being too gaudy and over-the-top with branding. Cardigans are the ultimate quiet luxury article of clothing, and you don't even need to look for cardigans from expensive brands; focusing on the look and feel can help you channel the aesthetic. High-quality materials like wool and cashmere feel premium, while colors like white, cream, camel, and gray add elegance to your outfit. Pair it with other staples like slacks and dress shoes for a sleek business casual vibe that's lavish without being overwhelming. You can also invest in designer brand cardigans for a truly luxurious product. Cardigans from brands like Gucci look high-end with unique colors and subtle branding that isn't too opulent.