How to Style a Cardigan Like a Boss

Nothing quite as cozy as a crisp fall breeze while being swathed in the softness of a cashmere cardigan. It’s a feeling so nostalgic that Taylor Swift’s ‘Cardigan’ effortlessly serenaded its way to the top of the pop charts, but let’s be honest, this isn’t just a trend for the young, under a streetlight, as the song goes.

Cardigans, the ageless icons of any wardrobe, are reclaiming their runway glory with the likes of Chanel, Miu Miu, Fendi, and other fashion powerhouses, proving that knitwear will always be there to keep us warm on a blustery day.

So, as the leaves tumble and the temperatures dip, give in to the allure of this perennial cozy companion. It’s a temptation impossible to resist – a harmony of fashion and comfort that’s worth investing in, time and time again.

And guess what? We’re teaming up with Garbolino Boutique once more – the place where slow and sustainable fashion is an everyday luxury. Take, for example, the Aldo Martins Graffitti sweater coat – a true sustainable work of art. Be it their European designers or favorite American labels, sustainability is woven into the fabric of every piece.

It’s not just about looking good; it’s about lasting goodness. Plus, the best part is that new additions effortlessly mix and mingle with your current Garbolino treasures, like my black dress I wrote about here, creating a harmonious and earth-friendly fashion blend that’s simply beautiful.

Here are my favorite stylish ways to wear a cardigan for 2023:

1. Classic Buttoned
Button up your cardigan and wear it as a standalone top for a timeless look with a pair of straight leg jeans, balloon jeans, skinny jeans, or even a pair of joggers. A fitted classic button down can look casual when worn undone, or polished with layers and fully buttoned.

2. Layered with a Blouse
Pair your cardigan with a button-down blouse, leaving it unbuttoned for a polished and office-appropriate ensemble. Or…

3. Wear it Backwards
For a unique twist, try wearing your cardigan with the buttons in the back, creating a high-necked, vintage-inspired look.

Cardigans are the perfect travel and capsule layer since it can look completely different when worn as a sweater. This look is so chic that the French aesthetic brands like, Ba&sh and Sezane, model many of their cardigans backwards.

4. Under a Blazer
Layer your cardigan under a blazer for a preppy and professional appearance. Layering a cardigan and blazer with jeans will keep it casual while a skirt will elevate it for the workplace.

5. Off-the-Shoulder
Wear your cardigan slightly off one shoulder for a relaxed and slightly sultry style, perfect for a casual outing.

6. Layered Over a Dress
Use your cardigan as a layering piece over a dress to add warmth and style to your outfit. A cropped cardigan will typically cut just at the high waist to create an hourglass shape for your dress.

 

7. As a Scarf or shoulder cover
Fold your cardigan into a long strip and wear it as a scarf to stay cozy and fashionable or wear it over your shoulders for a very European preppy vibe.

8. With a Skirt
Embrace your inner Dark Academia style with a chunky, oversized cardigan, a pleated wool skirt, some knee-high socks, classic loafers, and some smart glasses. Or go for a feminine and elegant look, tucking your cardigan in or leaving it loose with a silky cami underneath.

9. With a Graphic Tee and Jeans
A cardigan with jeans is always a classic look. Dress down your chunky knit cardigan by wearing it with a graphic T-shirt and jeans for a casual and comfortable outfit or try an open front with wide leg jeans for a boho look.

10. Belted
Add a belt around your waist over the cardigan to cinch it and create a more tailored and flattering silhouette. A perfect way to wear wrap cardigans and long cardigans. Or, when it’s too warm to wear, tie your cardigan around your waist as the belt itself to add a pop of color and texture to your outfit.

11. Like a Vest
Try styling your cardigan like a sweater vest, making it the perfect layered look for a cool winter day.

12. With Shorts
Combine a lightweight cardigan with shorts and a tank top for a stylish and breezy summer outfit.

These versatile styling options for your cardigan outfits should help you create various looks with your cardigan, suitable for different occasions and personal preferences.