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Cardigans are a closet staple, but they also happen to be consistently trendy. What’s the newest stylish take on cardigan outfits? Well, with an influx of ’90s and early-aughts looks over the past several seasons, the current trend is all about wearing these cardigan sweaters as tops, whether it’s thin and cropped like a baby tee or rendered in a classic silhouette in a bright color or logo pattern.
The cardigan styles out there truly run the gamut. You can layer a cropped cardigan over a dress, a short sleeve cardigan on top of a long-sleeve shirt, a long cardigan sweater over a skirt, or simply throw on a cardigan dress. There are also chunkier and lightweight cardigans out there that are great for styling as tops, too. If duster cardigan or long cardigan sweaters are more your speed, you can style them in the same manner as your favorite thin jacket.
The freshest way to wear your cardigan is with just a few buttons secured at the top and several left open for a chic reveal of skin — or as a mid-layer between a lightweight top and a jacket for transitional and cool weather. The best thing about cardigans? They’re perfect for lounging around the house in, or for when you want an outfit that looks just-dressed enough but not overdone.
Now is a great time to reach for the cardigan you already have, or pick up a new design, and give cardigans a fresh spin via the creative and diverse outfit ideas ahead. If you’re not already the proud owner of the timeless knit, we’ve rounded up the best of the season for you to shop — from super-affordable versions to designer styles.
— Additional reporting by Sarah Wasilak
