Cardigan sweaters are classic garments that come in a variety of styles. They are more flexible than regular sweaters and can be worn for casual and sophisticated looks. Due to its versatility, the cardigan is a must-have to complete any wardrobe. However, they can be a little intimidating if you've never worn cardigans. It can be difficult to figure out how to design many different shapes and cuts. By keeping a few key points in mind, you can easily incorporate cardigans into your wardrobe.

Method 1: Choose a cardigan

1. Consider your body type

Cardigan sweaters come in many shapes, sizes, lengths, and cuts. Some cardigan styles look better on certain body types, while others should be avoided. The goal is to choose the cut and length that best fits the overall contours of your body. For example, if you are slim and have a long waist, a fitted cardigan that tapers at the waist will look flattering, but a long, loose cardigan can eat up your frame and look sloppy.

For a masculine look, choose a cardigan with a slightly tapered waist. It should complement your figure like a blazer.

Use a cardigan to balance your body proportions.

Be careful not to wear a cardigan with a lot of fabric at the bottom, which can add bulk to your hips.

2. Start with a basic cardigan

A simple button-up cardigan in a neutral color like black is a super versatile addition to anyone's wardrobe. This product can be mixed and matched with just about anything in your wardrobe, making it the perfect staple. You can create a variety of looks with a basic cardigan, from casual to elegant. Opt for thin material, like cotton, so you can easily wear the dress in all seasons.

For example, in summer you can wear a lightweight cotton cardigan over a thin short-sleeved top, while in winter you can use it as an extra layer of warmth.

Try to choose a cardigan that flatters your body without overpowering your shape.

You should also choose a length that is proportional to your height - if you are tall, a very long rag cardigan will do. If you're petite, you may want to stick to something that's no more than hip-length.

3. It can be worn as a removable outer layer in cold weather

Cardigans can be layered to bring outfits together in a very effortless way. They are especially useful in spring and fall when mornings can be cold and afternoons are much warmer. When pairing with a cardigan, it is best to pair it with a light version. Otherwise, the overall effect may appear clunky or awkward. Save the thicker knits for winter and wear light clothing underneath them.

A cardigan tank top is a great layering piece for a smart casual look. Wear with a long-sleeve button-down shirt or turtleneck.

If your shirt has a pattern or print, choose a solid cardigan to go with it. Doubling prints may look busy and unpolished.

4. It can be worn as a removable outer layer in cold weather

Cardigans can be layered to bring outfits together in a very effortless way. They are especially useful in spring and fall when mornings can be cold and afternoons are much warmer. When pairing with a cardigan, it is best to pair it with a light version. Otherwise, the overall effect may appear clunky or awkward. Save the thicker knits for winter and wear light clothing underneath them.

A cardigan tank top is a great layering piece for a smart casual look. Wear with a long-sleeve button-down shirt or turtleneck.

If your shirt has a pattern or print, choose a solid cardigan to go with it. Doubling prints may look busy and unpolished.

Method 2: Feminine look for the cardigan

1. Wear the cardigan loosely

Layer a cardigan over a trendy tee or top, unbuttoned, to draw attention to it. You can opt for a solid color to go with the shirt, or go trendy by wearing a cardigan with stripes or other patterns. This look is casual yet stylish and looks great with regular jeans, skinny jeans, or leggings.

Wearing a cardigan can also accentuate a bold necklace or scarf.

This versatile look can be designed in many different ways. You can wear it with sneakers for a more casual look, or trendy ankle boots to elevate the style.

2. Wear fancy clothes

Layer a simple cardigan over a bold ensemble to tone it down during the day, or simplify an otherwise formal ensemble. Bold patterns can be softened with a cardigan in a solid base color like black. If you're wearing stiff or angular clothing, a lightweight cotton cardigan with soft lines can relax the look.

Take off the cardigan to quickly change from day to evening.

3. Single wear

Most people think of a cardigan as a garment that sits over a shirt, but a cardigan can look good on its own as long as it's cut properly. Wear it alone with a light, fitted neutral cardigan for a casual yet sophisticated look. If it snaps all the way to the collarbone, leave the top button open so it's comfortable and breathable.

4. Make a retro or boho statement

Pair with a skirt for a retro look. Pair it with a classic hip-length and cropped cardigan over a skirt of your choice for a very '50s retro vibe. This look can be dressed up or dressed up. Pretty much any skirt you choose will look great, whether it's ruffled, layered, long, short, pencil, or otherwise. Pair a solid cardigan with a bright turtleneck for a boho look. Complete the boho look with a chunky beaded necklace.

Add another vintage touch by wearing a brooch over your cardigan. Place it on the right or left side of your chest for a traditional look. You can also close a buttonless wrap cardigan with a brooch.

Wear a casual cardigan over a ruffled shirt with flared pants for a '70s vibe. Take this look a step further by wearing a big floppy hat or adding a pair of clogs.

5. Add flair with unique patterns

Cardigans with funky, unique patterns and bright colors look really fun. The wilder the pattern, the simpler the rest of the gear and accessories should be. Wear a bold cardigan with a solid color outfit.

For example, you can wear a trendy graphic cardigan with a pair of slim black jeans, black shoes, and black sunglasses.

6. Look for sophisticated cardigans with unusual details and stylish cuts

Not all cardigans are casual. A dressy cardigan can feature unusual, eye-catching details such as lace sleeves, double-breasted styles, ornate buttons, and more. They are rarely oversized, as fitted pieces tend to look more elegant.

You can also opt for a longer cardigan that fits like a coat. They have a sophisticated look and can complement a basic outfit like a T-shirt paired with jeans.

7. Put a belt on it

Add dimension and style to an outfit by tying a belt around a cardigan at the hips or waist. For a stylish look or to create the illusion of a waist, tie the belt around the narrowest part of your waist. Pair it with a skinny belt that looks very classy, or a stylish wide belt for a chic look. When worn with a belt, the cardigan can be buttoned or unbuttoned.

In addition to a traditional cardigan, you can also pair it with a buttonless cardigan. This creates a very smooth look.

If you want to try something different, wear a long belt or scarf around your waist instead of a regular belt.

Method 3: Create a masculine look for a cardigan

1. Choose a style that is comfortable and loose but does not sag

Cardigans that are too tight can make you look bulky and uncomfortable. For a good male fit, look for cardigans that are slightly loose at the shoulders. The shoulder seams should stop over your shoulders. The cardigan should be long enough to cover your waistband, but not so long that it covers your pants pocket.

A fitted cardigan should taper just below your ribcage and widen at the hips.

For a looser fit, try an oversized cardigan with a shawl collar.

2. Pair with a cardigan for a formal or business casual look

In cold weather, a formal or business casual look can be created by wearing a cardigan under a blazer and a pair of slacks. Wear it over a dress shirt and tie for a similar business-casual vibe. Cardigans come in many layering options - try them with shirts, ties, vests, jackets, coats, and more to keep you warm and insulated.

Avoid wearing a zip-up cardigan or matching slacks under a dressy blazer. These work best as a casual outer layer.

In warm weather, you can drape it over your shoulders or opt for a thin cotton version as an accent.

3. Pay attention to small details such as buttons

These tiny details can drastically change the look of a cardigan. For example, large, round buttons have a decidedly feminine quality. Look for cardigans with modest buttons, wooden toggles, or, for a casual look, zippers. Note that plastic buttons are common on cardigans these days.

If you prefer a more formal look, swap the plastic buttons for horn, mother-of-pearl, wood, or leather button fronts.

4. Create a casual look with a lightweight sports cardigan

A cotton cardigan is worn open over a crisp tee for a casual yet stylish look. It also creates a slightly sporty vibe. Pair with jeans or trousers. Sweatshirts look best when the rest of the garment looks sharp. Avoid wearing loose or rumpled T-shirts, which will look sloppy.

The above describes the matching method of cardigans in detail. If you want to buy or customize knitted sweaters, please contact us.

Tengyu is a professional custom sweater manufacturer with more than 10 years of experience. We manufacture all kinds of men's/women's knitwear and sweaters. Tengyu relies on a large family of 100+ skilled employees to continuously accept new knowledge and new technologies to provide high-quality garments and is committed to keeping up with production efficiency while improving garment quality. We treat small and big brands equally.