The 5 Best Cardigan Sweaters for Women
When the weather starts to get chilly, a cute cardigan is an essential wardrobe staple. Why? Because cardigans are the perfectly versatile, stylish clothing item; they look great with just about anything. You can throw one on top of whatever you're wearing, and it'll add instant style and class (and, not to mention, warmth) to even the most drab outfit. What's not to love? Of course, there are several different kinds of cardigans: Some offer more style than function (and vice versa), some have a more billowy fit while others are more structured, and some are cropped while others are longer in length. To find the best cardigan for your wants and needs, check out the five picks on our list, grouped by category.
Imily Bela Women’s Cardigan
The creme de la creme of cardigans
Thanks to its chic, slouchy fit, super-soft material, and flattering length, the Imily Bela Women’s Cardigan is basically the perfect cardigan (no big deal). This sweater does double-duty: If you’re on the hunt for the ideal cardigan that you can pair with jeans and a fitted tee for an everyday look, that also looks just as great with your favorite pair of sweatpants, then this is the sweater for you. The batwing sleeve adds an extra-cute factor, and the cable-knit material is lightweight and soft on the skin. The Imily Bela Cardigan comes in several cute shades, like Grey, Brick Red, and Army Green.
Pros:
- Fit is slouchy yet not bulky; it’s fitted in all the right places without being too constricting and billowy in all the right places without appearing too big.
- Adorable batwing sleeve.
- Cable-knit material is soft and lightweight.
- Available in several colors.
Cons:
- Might not be the best fit if you want a cold-weather cardigan; it’s definitely more of a fashion-y cardigan.
Grecerelle Women’s Knit Cardigan
Go crazy with color
Sometimes, basic colors like khaki, gray, or black are fine…and then other times, you just want something a little bolder and more eye-catching. And in those times, you should keep the Grecerelle Women’s Knit Cardigan in your closet. This long, soft, loose-fitting sweater is available in stylish leopard print, in several different colors like red, purple, pink, and more. (You can also get it in neutral, non-patterned colors.) Go ahead, add some excitement and colorful style to your outfits with this Grecerelle cardigan.
Pros:
- The leopard print pattern is super-cute, and it’s available in nearly every color of the rainbow.
- Really soft, blanket-like material.
- Long, loose fit is flattering on every body.
Cons:
- The arm length is just a tad too short.
Omic Got Women’s Chunky Cable-Knit Sweater
Made for cozy nights on the couch
Seriously, is there anything better than curling up on the couch in a big, comfy, super-sized sweater? (Especially when there’s a good book and a glass of red wine involved.) The Omic Got Cardigan has the perfect boyfriend fit: It’s chunky and thick without looking too big and bulky (which can be a tad unflattering), and it’s buttery-soft and warm enough to keep you nice and toasty on cold nights. The flowy fit looks great on every type of body, and you can pick from one of over a dozen colors.
Pros:
- Comfy, loose boyfriend fit doesn’t add bulk to your body.
- Lightweight yet warm.
- Comes in over a dozen colors.
Cons:
- It’s a little too short if you’re on the tall side.
DRSKIN Women’s Long-Sleeve Knit Cardigan
Class up your look
Dress for success in the DRSKIN Long-Sleeve Knit Cardigan, which clings to and accentuates your curves in the best possible way. Throw it over a dress or blouse-skirt combo to add some style and oomph to your outfit, for those times when you need to look professional and put-together. And, best of all, this is also just a classic, wear-it-with-anything sweater that looks just as good dressed down: Pair it with comfy skinny jeans and your favorite top for a casually trendy look. The DRSKIN Long-Sleeve Knit Cardigan is made from soft, stretchy rayon and spandex, and comes in black, green, and white.
Pros:
- Classic, dressy structure that hugs your curves, for a fit that’s chic and flattering.
- Rayon material is soft and stretchy.
- Looks as good with a dress or nice blouse as it does with a t-shirt and jeans.
Cons:
- Limited color selection.
Astylish Chunky Knit Cardigan
Stay cute, stay cozy
When the weather gets crisp and cool and the leaves start falling off the trees, the Astylish Chunky Knit Cardigan is the perfectly cozy, cute sweater to wear. The chunky knit pattern looks it was made by hand, and the fabric is warm, thick, and luxe (in fact, this sweater looks like a more expensive piece of clothing than it actually is, which is always a plus). The wide, long sleeves and ribbed hem combine to create the perfect billowy fit, and it comes in plenty of cool colors, like khaki, burgundy, grey, green, and more. There’s no doubt about it; this Astylish sweater is bound to become your fall wardrobe staple.
Pros:
- Chunky knit is elegant and looks almost-handmade.
- Cute slouchy fit.
- Fabric is warm and thick.
- Comes in over a dozen colors.
Cons:
- A few of the colors are darker or lighter IRL than they are in the pictures.
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of top should I wear underneath my cardigan?
First, you don’t necessarily have to wear a top underneath your cardigan if you’ll be wearing it buttoned up. If you do want to wear a top underneath, though, make sure it’s not too bulky or thick. A fitted t-shirt or tank usually looks best.
Can I wear a cardigan with a dress?
Definitely. The right cardigan can add structure and style to your dress. Just be sure that it’s made from a dressy material and isn’t too casual. (For example, if you want to look dressed up, now’s probably not the time to wear your slouchy knit sweater; save that one for Netflix nights on the couch.)
What type of cardigan goes best with leggings or skinny jeans?
If you’re wearing slim-fitting pants or leggings, a long-ish cardigan usually looks best, since it helps to create a slim, chic silhouette.
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