The Do’s and Don’ts of Wearing Cardigans

Cardigans are an item of clothing that almost every woman will have in her wardrobe. Cardigans are available in a wide range of different colors, sizes, shapes, materials, patterns and prints – they’re definitely not all created equally, with some cardigans being better for certain body types, and others being a perfect match for specific outfits.

Choosing the perfect cardigan to match not only your body type but the rest of your outfit can get a little confusing at times, but taking the time to make the right choice is important. Thankfully, we’ve put together a list of some of the basic do’s and don’ts of wearing cardigans to help you complete your look.

Waist Length and Cropped Cardigans

The waist length cardigan is probably the most common style of cardigan, and you’re bound to own at least one.

Do’s

Cropped cardigans go well with fit and flare style dresses, and look especially stylish when paired with high waisted skirts. If you’re planning on pairing a waist length cardigan with a dress or a skirt a good rule of thumb is to make sure that the hem of the cardigan should not fall any more than a few inches past the waistband.

Don’ts

If you’re planning to wear a waist length cardigan, don’t pair it with a long top, as the difference in lengths creates too much of a contrast, and makes your body look a weird, out of proportion shape.

Oversized Cardigans

Oversized cardigans with Aztec prints are definitely right on trend this season.

Do’s

Because of all the bulk that an oversized cardigan creates, you’ll want to keep your legs looking nice and slim in contrast, so pair them with skinny jeans or leggings. Distressed, ripped skinny jeans look great with a bold printed Aztec oversized cardigan.

Don’ts

Again, because oversized cardigans are so bulky, you’ll want to steer clear of adding any extra bulk to your outfit. Avoid loose fitting bottoms, floaty skirts, or boyfriend jeans – you’ll only end up looking bigger and wider than you actually are.

Boyfriend Cardigan

Boyfriend cardigans are comfortable, practical and casual – and can be paired with pretty much anything!

Do’s

Because of the longer length of the boyfriend cardigan, they work better with bottoms that are fitted and slim such as skinny jeans, leggings, pencil skirts, or even shorts.

Don’ts

The longer length of a boyfriend cardigan doesn’t tend to go very well with longer, floaty outfits – so steer clear of pairing them with full dresses or skirts.

Wrap Cardigans

Similar to oversized cardigans, wrap cardigan sweaters are a less bulky option.

Do’s

Pair with dark colored jeans or leggings, which will help to nicely flatter your figure and elongate your silhouette.

Don’ts

Don’t pair wrap cardigans with short skirts – the longer length is just not a good match. Even with knee length skirts, the drapey lapels of a wrap cardigan will create a strange proportion and not flatter your shape well.

Article by a guest author. Which is your favorite style of cardigan? Leave your response in the comments.