How to master the cardigan trend, for every figure and occasion
Isn’t it perfect when the fashion cycle anoints a useful garment as on- trend? If you’re anything like me, you never stopped wearing cardigans, but now they come with a designer seal of approval. Appearing everywhere from Altuzarra to Chanel, the revival wasn’t complete until Katie Holmes stepped out in a cashmere one with a matching bra. All hail the bra-digan.
It’s a huge volte-face for a garment not so long ago associated with grandmotherly types and country houses. But it’s about time. Whether you’re more in the ‘wearable blanket’ camp or Holmes territory, there’s a cardigan for everyone.
If you choose an oversized style, keep the rest of your outfit fitted. Or banish fusty associations by wearing a fine-gauge cardie buttoned up over a bra with a midi-skirt. Hot.
The inspiration
Not so basic
The key moment in the cardigan’s revamp arrived not on a catwalk, but on actor Katie Holmes.
Elegantly waisted
Pop a cropped cardie over slinky separates and only fasten the top button, as seen on model Bella Hadid.
Cosy with bite
Italian influencer Candela Pelizza pits the softness of an oversized knit against a leather skirt.
Now make it work for you...
Best for pulling off the shoulder
For a soft, romantic vibe.
Jersey, £160, Ganni
Best for adding sparkle
Bringing texture and shine to any your autumn-winter outfit.
Sequinned, £88, J Crew
Best for definition
Wear a cropped cardigan open over a T-shirt and skirt to draw the eye to your natural waist.
Oversized, £450, Burberry at Net-a-Porter
Best for doubling up as a dress
The elongated shape mean this works with nothing underneath – just add a scarf and boots.
Longline, £49.90, JW Anderson x Uniqlo
Best for wearing backwards
In a chunky yarn with balloon sleeves, this is cut to be worn with the deep V at the front or back.
Multicoloured, £195, Ba&sh
Best for adapting fancy skirts into workwear
A classic grey cardigan can make any sparkly skirt office-appropriate.
Cashmere, £89, Marks & Spencer
Best for standing out
Handmade resin buttons – which on this camel version include bananas and a wedge of cheese – add a quirky touch.
Wool, £280, Hades
Best for a pub lunch
The relaxed shape of this knit make it a cosy weekend choice.
Ribbed V-neck, £265, Allude at Matches Fashion
Wear it with...
Satin pleated midi-skirt, £46, Warehouse; Glitter and resin hair clips, £6 for two, Accessorize; Leather boots, £140, Anthropologie; Cropped corduroy trousers, £39, & Other Stories; Hoop earrings, £10, Mango
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