Cardigans are the ultimate layering piece—they’re timeless, and available in every length, fabric, and color you could imagine. They keep you cozy in the cold months, and keep you covered on warm but breezy days in spring and summer. Whether worn over a dress, or thrown on to add more texture to a leggings outfit, a good cardigan always works with you, not against you. I’ll show you the best pieces to wear with a cardigan, and give you 14 cozy and chic cardigan outfit ideas you’ll want to wear all year.
What to Wear with a Cardigan
- Cropped Tanks and Camis: The fitted, minimal cut adds shape against bulky knits or button-down cardigan styles.
- Leggings: Their sleekness keeps a streamlined silhouette against oversized cardigans.
- Denim Jeans: Straight-leg jeans have a relaxed structure that work perfectly with cardigans without losing shape. Wide-leg jeans contrast effortlessly with their hint of flowiness against open-front cardigans.
- Mini Skirts: The shorter hemline pairs beautifully with cropped or longer length cardigans to create flattering proportions.
- Ruffle Shorts: Their soft, feminine shape complements airy, lightweight knit cardigans.
- Knee-High Boots: Whether you choose a pointed-toe or square-toe boot, the knee-high length instantly elevates any cardigan outfit.
- Sneakers: An easy way to make your outfit casual and cool if you want to tone down the structure of a button down cardigan.
- Slip-On Sandals: Lightweight H-band sandals are a chic option for spring or summer cardigan outfits, and comfy raffia sandals add a touch of texture to your look without going over the top.
14 Cozy and Chic Cardigan Outfit Ideas
Oversized Cardigan and High-Waisted Leggings
A fitted scoop neck tank and high-waisted leggings create a sleek, pulled-together base. Toss on an oversized cardigan with lantern sleeves to add just the right amount of cozy charm. Sneakers (these have since sold out, shop here for a similar style) keep it casual but chic, making this look the ideal coffee run outfit for fall.
Long Chunky Cardigan and Wide-Leg Pants
This is such a cute cardigan outfit for spring! I’m obsessed with how these Free People inspired pants bring a relaxed, boho vibe while the chunky open-front cardigan amps up the coziness. To create balance to the silhouette, I added a sleek square neck tank, vintage Reebok sneakers, and a crossbody bag.
Cropped Cardigan and Straight Ankle Jeans
A lightweight loose knit cardigan against a pink peplum top is a chic and feminine duo. Add some structure with a pair of ankle jeans and a minimalistic shoulder bag. Perfect for sunny and breezy days, finish off this spring outfit with some platform raffia sandals.
Lantern Sleeved Cardigan and Wide-Leg Jeans
I love the classy gold button detail on this soft cardigan sweater—it instantly dresses up a pair of wide-leg jeans! Style them with this cute and comfy pair of chic designed-inspired lace sneakers, and you’ve got a cozy throw-on-and-go cardigan outfit.
Button Down Cardigan and Denim Shorts
