Jackets Versus Cardigans

About the Author

Angie is co-founder of YLF and its resident fashion stylist.

Welcome! Read about what to wear and how to wear it on the YLF Blog. Join the YLF Forum to ask specific questions or just chat about fashion and personal style. Or check out the curated list of things we love in YLF Finds.

Outfits Ensembles Trends Advice

Jackets Versus Cardigans

— by Angie

on January 18, 2018

Jackets and cardigans are often competing topper candidates for a dress, jumpsuit, or top and bottom combination. You might prefer jackets to cardigans, or wear both. Here are the advantages of each.

Jackets

Look sharp and professional
Denote authority and an element of strictness
Dresses up an outfit
Provides outfit interest
Broadens a narrow shoulder line
Provides outfit structure
Easy to fit on a straighter body
Camouflages muffin top

Cardigans

Comfortable and soft
Casual
Easier to fit than a jacket, because the knit moulds to the shape of the body
Easy for travel
Softens a broad shoulder line
Works well over a larger bust
Works well indoors
Suited to working and staying at home
Camouflages muffin top

Whether you prefer jackets to cardigans can depend on your lifestyle, body type, or simply your sartorial preferences. All my clients wear cardigans because of the pros mentioned here. Some prefer jackets, but there is room for cardigans in their lifestyle, especially over the weekend and when they travel.

I own exactly one cardigan that is part of a very loud twinset. I never wear the cardigan without its twin underlayer. I feel that cardigans make me look too narrow-shouldered, especially when they’re long. They also lack the structure, dressiness and sharpness that I look for in a topper. My loud twinset though, is cropped, high-necked and cheeky, which adds bulk up top. The fine gauge cashmere knit feels luxurious and dressy.

Over to you. Do you prefer jackets, cardigans, or do you love both equally?

Toppers

95 comments · Add a comment

Forum conversations about this post

Swacket Season — by Beth Ann
In praise of the jacket-y cardigan — by SarahD8

Aquamarine

Veteran

I have and love both, for all the reasons you list. I had purged most jackets a few years ago, but I started reintroducing them into my wardrobe last year and am so much happier.

January 18, 2018 at 4:19 am

Inge

(website)

Moderator

I love both equally: When I first found YLF I learned how versatile a cardigan could be for me, and I started wearing them often. Then I discovered that I always feel extra sharp, put together and dressier when wearing jackets, and I stopped wearing cardigans altogether for several years.
And while I still absolutely love how jackets look and make me feel, I realized – thanks to your help Angie – that (maxi) cardigans really are brilliant for my casual and work-from-home lifestyle, so I’ve fully embraced cardigans again too;-)

January 18, 2018 at 4:19 am

April

Veteran

I prefer the look of a jacket and the feel of a cardigan. Jackets can make me look like I have waist definition, which I don’t. Cardigans don’t constrict my shoulders. Love each for these reasons.

P.S. We are moving this weekend and when the dust settles, I will post pictures of my new closet, which is dreamy.

January 18, 2018 at 4:20 am

Joyce B

Veteran

I prefer jackets because they look more professional. Although I like cardigans, when I wear them they are a layering piece under a jacket.
I have two BR cardis that I like but may return because I don’t think I will wear them much.

January 18, 2018 at 4:21 am

viva

Veteran

Typically I tend toward blazers (especially for work) but I’ve been looking for some options that feel less corporate. I find cardigans better for casual wear but like structure. I just purchased a beautiful knit merino blazer from JCrew which rides the line in between really well — structured and sharp, but packable and not corporate. I am really excited about the idea of a more movable, packable knit blazer for work.

January 18, 2018 at 4:21 am

lyn67

Veteran

Oh, how I miss your outfit posts, Angie!(looked up to the link for the twin set).
I love them both jackets and cardis (esp cascade fall-for both) but have all kind of other (modern classic) jackets, too-as am a slightly dressier person and love structure- but do NOT wear classic cut cardis anymore.

January 18, 2018 at 4:21 am

Sigrid

A few years ago I’d been on team cardigans for sure, because I have a very casual life and cardigans are much easier to clean. However, after reading here that sweathers are more on trend than cardigans, I’ve phased cardigans out of my wardrobe and have very few left, so now I wear sweathers most days. So for me these days: rarely cardigans and almost never jackets.

You have more influence of my style than you know, Angie!

January 18, 2018 at 4:22 am

Helena

Veteran

I much prefer jackets for all the reasons you stated; however, they are sadly not always practical for my casual lifestyle in a cold climate, where a heavy layer is called for. I have a couple of blazers, a blush Moto, and a few denim jackets which I wear a ton when weather and occasion permit! I only have two cardigans … One thick and cozy gray one for cold days, and one very fine knit ink blue one for cooler summer evenings.

January 18, 2018 at 4:24 am

Eliza

Veteran

I wear both. I love the structure a jacket can add to an outfit; the range of styles available can add a current vibe and be used to create a variety of silhouettes. I used to wear them exclusively. Now that my lifestyle is more casual than ever, cardigans are worn more often. They are cosier for at home wear and usually fit more comfortably under necessary winter outwear. I have learned to be careful about their fabrication and volume; enjoy having a variety of lengths in these as I do in jackets. I also have some hybrid pieces that are quality, tightly woven knitwear pieces, some with great details. These may be my current favorites as they add structure and are easy to wear. Fun topic, Angie.

January 18, 2018 at 4:25 am

Beth Ann

Veteran

Ah, this is a tricky one, but I think I’ve got it:
Jackets! I love jackets. I just rarely wear them.
The job requires lots of movement, and, as I’m going into people’s homes, I don’t want to make the mom of a child with a disability feel underdressed by comparison. Jackets are also hard to fit for my body type, and they would claim a big chunk of my budget. What to do?

I search far and wide for:
Sweaters with the structure of jackets
Unlined jackets with stretch

January 18, 2018 at 4:25 am

Aurore

Veteran

I’m a huge blazer lover, for nearly all the reasons you list.
However, I have exactly three cardigans that I like to wear when looking for something more casual.

January 18, 2018 at 4:33 am

Robin

Active Member

I love both, with a preference for cardigans because I’ve spent more time with them.

January 18, 2018 at 4:39 am

Bijou

Veteran

Team jacket. I have one long line cardigan that is edged in lace and has a slight puff sleeve and nipped in waist, that one I love because it is dressy. I do have a fun knitted cardigan in my lounge wear capsule, but that is it. I just feel more pulled together in a jacket or blazer.

January 18, 2018 at 4:40 am

Jazzy Dance

Active Member

First of all, thank you Angie for the wonderful size diversity of model photos you choose for your posts. It’s great, and appreciated.

I have tried, and tried, and tried to wear cardigans but I just can’t do it. So many different cardigans of different styles over the years and I never wear any of them. I really, really dislike the way I look in them and I have never been able to figure out why. I feel much too… something in them. Dowdy, preppy, housewifey… I’m not sure. But no. So much no. That said, I don’t think that of most anyone else I see in one… just me.

Jackets on the other hand… I loooove jackets. Not so much blazers with my very short hair, but all other kinds. I’ve worn and loved my Paper Denim & Cloth denim jacket for over 10 years. I also love the colorful and uniquely detailed jackets Boden offers. Unfortunately jacket season here in NC is almost non-existent. It goes from being literally 100 degrees to a few weeks of freezing cold with not much transition. Too bad, because I feel FAB in jackets.

January 18, 2018 at 4:43 am

madeline

Veteran

Cardigans for me almost all the time. Classic cardigans, waterfall ones, wrap ones. I have many! I teach long hours and jackets felt too stiff and constructing to wear all day.
Like BethAnn, I wear a cardigan with more structure if I need to look more professional. And I do pull out the jackets for work events where I need to look like I’m in charge

January 18, 2018 at 4:46 am

Toban

Veteran

Team cardigan. This has changed over time. I was solidly team blazer for my 20s and 30s, but with broad shoulders and large chest it isn’t my best look. I especially like mid thigh length cardigans with asymmetrical hems, which deemphasize my bust and are elongating on my petite frame.

January 18, 2018 at 4:46 am

jussie

Veteran

I prefer cardigans thus far. I own one plain black jacket which is for weddings, funerals and job interviews , and one black jacket with rhinestones all over it which is for dinners out.
I prefer softer fabrics generally, also where I live jackets and blazers seem more confined to corporate office wear. The jeans and blazer combo isn’t so common. But as discussed in your earlier post, never say never.
I do however like to wear bombers and denim jackets, and can’t wait to add a tan leather jacket to my wardrobe.

January 18, 2018 at 4:54 am

dakotacheryl

Veteran

Hmmm…I only own a couple of cardigans, but I have many soft, unstructured “jackets”…boiled wool, linen etc. I loathe lapels, and have very few jackets with buttons.

January 18, 2018 at 5:26 am

Kathie

Veteran

Both! Today, it’s again quite cold, and I have just a few internal meetings, so I bundled up in my NAS Halogen long, ribbed cashmere cardigan. But, last week, I was at an investor conference, so it was jackets every day. That said, I do like the hybrid options, as Viva, Eliza, and Beth Ann have commented. Knitwear with the cut and details of a jacket, or unlined, fluid-fitting jackets. My topper that gets the most comments is in this category- a boiled wool, unstructured EF jacket.

January 18, 2018 at 5:34 am

RobinF

Veteran

I love cardigans, which makes sense when I read your descriptions. I like casual and comfortable above all else. I do have some jackets and have been forcing myself to wear them and I do like the way they look, especially with other casual pieces like jeans, but I just love my cardigans.

January 18, 2018 at 5:38 am

marianna

Veteran

Honestly I like the look of a jacket better most times, but I wear more cardigans because somehow they are easier for me – more soft and comfortable, and machine washable.

January 18, 2018 at 5:39 am

Janet

(website)

Veteran

Team Jacket, hands down. I often find the idea of cardigans appealing, but I put them on and…don’t feel it. Much like Jazzy Dance above, I feel too classic or preppy or even dowdy in them.

However, I did buy one the other night. Deep discount, and there was something about it I found promising. For one thing it has a V neck, which I think suits me better than crew necks. I will not cut tags until I actually commit to wearing it. It might just be around-the-house wear as an alternative to sweatshirt hoodies, but that’s OK.

I much prefer jackets — specifically motos, bombers, and longer jackets with structure. I own a couple of blazers but they are not often worn, as they are a little dressy for my current life. Given my body type and my casual lifestyle, cardigans would seem a natural choice from your descriptions, Angie, but they usually come off a little too soft, unstructured, and/or classic for my taste.

January 18, 2018 at 5:44 am

cindysmith

Veteran

I prefer jackets, the more structured the better. Like, seriously, a good moto jacket is everything to me. However, that generally doesn’t work for my body: my arms, shoulders, muscles in my back, and chest (thanks, weight gain) make it hard to fit jackets without a slew of alterations. My lifestyle is also very casual, so jackets don’t exactly fit there either.

So I’ve sort of defaulted to cardigans, which I swore I’d never wear again (where was that thought in your recent post about saying never? LOL). I’ve gravitated towards boho-lite cardigans (because they kind of mesh with my dystopian tastes), or cardigans that feel like they’re inspired by (or reference) that Rick Owens feeling (gothic street ninja or moto flavored).

I’ve also recently acquired a couple of vests that have a bit of that structure and edge of a moto jacket, and I think they might turn out to be a great compromise for me in the topper department.

January 18, 2018 at 5:49 am

Cardiff girl

Veteran

I love both.Because I have a casual lifestyle I have more cardigans than jackets but I m very fond of a casual jacket as well to elevate an outfit to a smarter look when going out.sometimes I wear both together!

January 18, 2018 at 6:02 am

Suz

(website)

Veteran

Cheering for the size diversity you feature here, Angie. And wow, does that first model ever look gorgeous in the pretty retro green jacket!

I prefer jackets, but also enjoy long cardigans as a switch up. I don’t care for shorter cardigans as a rule and only own one (my sentimental pick from my mother’s closet, which is part of a vibrant patterned twinset, so similar to your idea.)

They play different roles in my life. Jackets for the outside world, to look and feel sharp. Cardigans for at -home coziness. I do occasionally wear a cardigan as a topper in temperate fall weather when I am travelling. It works because I can stuff it into my bag when unneeded and pull it out when I do need the extra warmth. It is tougher to do that with a jacket.

Paradoxically (given my comments about short cardigans above) I also enjoy a knit short jacket. Currently I own two of these and am finding them an easy item to wear.

January 18, 2018 at 6:05 am

Ginger

Veteran

Definitely cardigans, though most of mine are very retro look, traditional round necks but short, ending at the waist. They are perfect for layering over short sleeves in warm weather, since most places where I spend significant time (work and church) are kept too cool for my comfort. I don’t have any long and unfitted cardigans.

I like the idea of jackets, but I practically never reach for the few I have had. They are more formal in presentation than I need, and I have many fitting challenges: small waist, curvy hips, moderate bust, and small back. I have a poison eye for ill-fitting jackets.

January 18, 2018 at 6:09 am

Diana

Veteran

I like both, although I almost never wear *classic* cardigans. I do, however, like cardigans in more unconventional shapes (like asymmetrical fronts, batwing sleeves, that kind of thing.

Anyway I like the structure of jackets and the comfort/ease of cardigans. Since I generally don’t want to look either too casual or too formal, I will often choose a jacket to make an outfit sharper, or a cardigan to tone down the dressy factor. There’s definitely a place for both in my wardrobe.

January 18, 2018 at 6:12 am

jlpp

I quite like both. I wear long, cropped and standard length cardigans depending what type of top or dress I am wearing underneath. I no longer have many blazers but like them and have loads of bombers and motos.

January 18, 2018 at 6:22 am

Jjsloane

Veteran

I love both, but jackets for work are my preference. I wear cardigans as I wear jackets (usually over printed dresses) for polish, warmth and to cover my arms. I find a jacket makes me still feel work appropriate wearing jeans on casual day. I don’t find that I wear jackets in my off duty outfits though. It must be a professional thing for me. I prefer pullovers for weekend wear.

January 18, 2018 at 6:24 am

Mirjana

Veteran

I like both equally. In the winter prefer cardigan for the above reasons, otherwise jacket is for the rest of the year.

January 18, 2018 at 6:24 am

columbine(erin)

Veteran

I like the ease of cardigans and own many. But I have narrow, round shoulders, and would look better in jackets, probably. I was thinking about this last night. I believe you can read minds.

January 18, 2018 at 6:26 am

Scarlet

Veteran

I like the way jackets look, but I prefer to wear cardigans due to the comfort unless I am trying to convey strictness/seriousness.

January 18, 2018 at 6:32 am

gryffin

Veteran

Team blazer all the way. Strict, structured, formal, professional, elegant, authoritative, dressy, dressy, dressy, yup. I have few cardigans a very dressy cropped, one long but elegant for home when jacket is just too formal and one barefoot dreams for warmth. Otherwise, I’m team blazer all the way. I’m a slim rectangle with small bust so I do have an easy time with fit and they give structure and presence which I love. But I am a very formal, dressy girl so I’ll probably find a way to make a blazer work for the beach, but that’s just me.

January 18, 2018 at 6:37 am

rachylou

Veteran

Heh… I rarely wear either. I’m always wearing a pullover sweater… it’s all about how cold I always am…

January 18, 2018 at 6:42 am

Lisa

Veteran

Team blazer for me! I appreciate the cozy vibe of a cardigan, but prefer the structure and authority a blazer provides. It’s my favorite way to dress up jeans!

January 18, 2018 at 6:48 am

Stagiaire Fash

Veteran

Angie, I hope your dad is cozy and is at home, snug as a bug in a rug!
https://www.msn.com/en-us/video/lifestyle/watch-storm-winds-send-pedestrians-flying-in-netherlands/vp-AAuQNek

January 18, 2018 at 6:50 am

Katerina

Veteran

I love jackets, they are my favourite items of clothing actually. I usually do not wear cardigans – I have a couple of cardigans which are cut like jackets – I do not know if they should be called cardigans or knitted jackets instead. I like cardigans on others though.

January 18, 2018 at 7:21 am

Angie

(website)

Fashion Stylist

WOW. Loads of passion for jackets and cardigans this morning. Lots of Team Both. NICE.

Aquamarine, interesting. What made you switch back?

Inge, if you can’t look fab in a maxi cardigan – who can! You look SOOO good in long cardigans.

April, how exciting.

Viva, please post the knit blazer on the forum. Sounds great.

Lyn67, thanks for missing my outfit posts. You wear cascading cardigans well.

HAH, Sigrid. You make me laugh.

Eliza, good layering cardigan wisdom.

Beth Ann, or knitted jackets.

Aurore, blazers pander to your Tomboy side.

Robin, cardigans are very suited to your lifestyle.

Bijou, high five.

Jazzy Dance, interesting analogy. Come to Seattle. We wear jackets A LOT. Or try structured vests.

Toban, you’ve discovered the magic of diagonal lines.

Janet, I hear you. I want to see your new cardigan, and you have a KILLER capsule of jackets.

Cindy, vests are a great idea.

Suz, the model looks beautiful, doesn’t she. I LOVE your floral twinset, and your short jackets.

Ginger, have I seen you in a jacket?

Diana, nice styling strategy.

jlpp, bombers and motos are fab classics.

colombine, I’ll put telepathy on my CV.

Gryffin, a beach blazer. I love it.

Rachy, that’s okay. Team Puffy would miss you.

Thanks, Fashintern. My Dad is warm and cozy at home, for sure.

Katerina, lets see those knitted jackets.

January 18, 2018 at 7:27 am

Bonnie

Veteran

I have more jackets than sweaters, but I prefer soft fabrics. Structured jackets remind me of being in the workforce.

January 18, 2018 at 7:29 am

Dana

(website)

Veteran

Coincidentally, I am wearing a jacket today, but if I had to choose a team, it would definitely be team cardigan. I like to feel cozy in the fall/winter, and cardigans do the job. Overall, I prefer knits to woven fabrics. Plus, I don’t like sleeves underneath a jacket, so it needs to not be terribly cold if I wear a jacket. That said, I have some great summer jackets!

January 18, 2018 at 7:30 am

lisa p

I share Janet’s thoughts. I’m team blazer and jacket all the way. Even though I work from a home office, I don’t wear the collection of cardigans I have, except for the odd time in spring or fall (like Suz mentioned) . At home I want one piece that is warm enough to sit at my desk in, not a bunch of layers. I don’t know why that is, and maybe it would be worth my while to experiment more with my at-home wear to inlude a cardigan. I have too many of them sitting unworn. When at work, I want my third piece to provide structure and to make a statement, and most cardigans don’t do that.

January 18, 2018 at 7:51 am

lisa p

And yes, the woman in the pleated skirt and olive jacket looks beautiful, full stop. Gorgeous figure and flattering clothes.

January 18, 2018 at 7:52 am

Jaime

(website)

Veteran

I only like cardigans when I can wear them buttoned up. I definitely prefer jackets on me, and like my knitwear to be pullovers that don’t slide off my shoulders and keep me warm. The top outfit is gorgeous!

January 18, 2018 at 8:01 am

Sisi

Veteran

I much prefer jackets … but I wear mostly cardigans, due to body shape.

January 18, 2018 at 8:06 am

Inge

(website)

Moderator

You’re making me blush, Angie! Thank you!-)

January 18, 2018 at 8:15 am

Veteran

Definitely jackets, pretty much the same reasons as yours. I have narrower shoulder, but bigger bust, so sometimes it gets tricky. I do have one or 2 cardis, but I don’t remember when I wore them last. I’ve thought about getting more cardis because Winter is becoming milder each year and a jacket is too hot for the office, but I need to get used to the change…

January 18, 2018 at 8:15 am

Marilyn

Veteran

Team jackets! I love the structure and polish they provide. I used to have an extensive cardigan collection but have purged almost all of them. The few I’ve hung on to have gone unworn this winter.

I picked up two J Crew Merino Sweater Blazers this year…..one in burgundy and one in black. Love them! They provide the structure of a blazer with the comfort of a cardigan. I can wear them around the house and feel comfortable without being over dressed.

January 18, 2018 at 8:34 am

Laura

(website)

Veteran

Jackets look better on me, but due to my work-from-home lifestyle, I wear cardigans more often. Go figure! You may have surfaced a late-entry 2018 fashion resolution for my list.

January 18, 2018 at 8:36 am

tanstaafl

Active Member

I am definitely on team both! I’m with Viva on wanting the structure of the jacket without being too corporate. I find it very hard to stay on that line though. I very quickly drift too casual with the cardigan and too corporate with the blazer. I’d love to see the jacket that she found, or any structured cardigans that others have found.

January 18, 2018 at 8:43 am

jlpp

A lot of my cropped cashmere cardigans are actually from Boden and I wear them with high rise pants or fit and flare dresses, when I want arm coverage or a third piece.

January 18, 2018 at 9:19 am

Linder51

Give me a statement jacket any day.

January 18, 2018 at 9:26 am

Dianna

Veteran

I like both, although I do have a preference for jackets, but wear both equally. My cardigans are usually long and lightweight, and mostly worn in summer in office A/C. I find many summer jackets these days are too cropped for my long-waisted body.

January 18, 2018 at 9:30 am

hgr

Active Member

I love both cardigans and jackets but I find I look better in a jacket (it can be casual, it just needs to be more fitted to tie the outfit together) If I wear a cardigan with a dress or a skirt then I will wear it with a belt to give the outfit more definition. Sometimes just wearing the cardigan (no belt) with the dress takes away the look of the outfit (maybe looks like “this is your work sweater when you need something just to keep yourself warm”) When wearing a cardigan with jeans I make sure I tuck in my shirt and wear a belt. I like the picture of the model (above) wearing the cardigan, loose top, jeans and no belt. Unfortunately that look does not usually look good on me.

January 18, 2018 at 9:30 am

karen13

Veteran

I don’t have either right now. I finally donated the beautifully tailored jackets left over from my corporate days a year ago. Hadn’t worn them in in years. Like Rachy, I just grab a pullover, usually a sweatshirt. But as I’m trying to up my game while recognizing my lifestyle, I may have to try some of the cardigan styles that Toban mentions, as we are both petite, and broad shouldered and chested. Ad I’m going to look for viva’s knit blazer, sounds delicious.

January 18, 2018 at 9:33 am

The Cat

Veteran

Great evaluation.

I love jackets and cardigans equally and have several of each for every season. I think I use my cardigans more than my jackets, at least in the cool months. And I would hardly travel anywhere without at least one cardigan. However, in summer, late spring and early fall, I often use blazers as outerwear.

Due to fluctuating temperatures (internal as well as external), I dress in layers most of the time. And compared to pullovers (which I also sometimes wear as toppers, especially in winter), jackets and cardigans can be removed more easily and without ruining your hairstyle–real advantages when you are attending a meeting or are a passager on a full-packed bus, train or plane. Blazers, in particular, can also look great just hanging over your shoulders.

January 18, 2018 at 9:35 am

citygirldc

(website)

Veteran

I also like both. You can dress up and dress down both jackets and cardis and I often do so at work. These days my conservative office looks have toned down to almost a dressy business casual (unless you have meetings, etc).

January 18, 2018 at 9:35 am

Liz

Definitely jackets and blazers for all the reasons listed above, especially for the structure or the patterned lining on the inside of cuffs that can be shown off when cuffed. I have a real soft-spot for tweed jackets too. I do wear cardigans in the summer over dresses for warmth in the A/C, but only black or ink blue.

January 18, 2018 at 9:36 am

klauren

Active Member

Team both – it really depends on what I’m wear beneath them. Although I must say most of my jackets are not really tailored as for wear in an office.

January 18, 2018 at 9:38 am

Joanna

(website)

Active Member

I actually love jackets but have very few due to fit issues–I have broad shoulders and a large bust, in addition to a broad back–it’s very difficult to find something that fits me properly, that I can button and move my arms in! I have knit jackets, and soft jackets, and lots of lovely cardies, but at times I really crave the strictness of a proper blazer. The few times I’ve found one, I’ve felt fab in it!

January 18, 2018 at 9:40 am

Darleen

Active Member

I am on team jackets, preferably lined jackets. That said, I now live in a cold climate that requires warm coats when going somewhere outdoors, and I like the “third piece” when I take my coat off. Most quality jackets don’t fit well under a properly fitted coat, so here comes the cardigan.
My complaint against cardigans is that they are really hard to put one and take off unless you have a sleeveless topper. And sleeveless doesn’t do it when you are in a cold climate, even with a cardigan. So I have to allow extra time and patience when dressing for going out to put on my cardigan, and get it adjusted across the shoulders. I certainly don’t take it off until I get home.
Jackets are a classy finishing touch for any outfit, even very causal. I have held onto my jackets clear through this “cardigan trend” and am so glad to see them returning. Many of them, once spring comes, can replace my heavy winter coats. (Sometimes when I have a destination, I just put my coat in the car for a “just in case” time while driving, along with gloves and walking boots. We live in the very rural, sometimes cell phones don’t even work.)
So put me on team jackets!!!!

January 18, 2018 at 10:05 am

celia

Veteran

Another blazer lover reporting. I think partly it is an intuitive thing because it showcases my shoulders and waist balancing my hips. Also I love the manufacturing and the fabrics they come on.
Fortunately they are completely appropriate for my work place and this past seasons I have been collecting them ( not a bit ashamed of it ).
I also like and wear cardigans but o don’t have the same visceral reaction to them.

January 18, 2018 at 10:24 am

Sal

Veteran

I like both but am rarely wearing cardigans at the moment. I do plan to get a long one for working at home as they are perfect for that. I love hybrids – soft jackets, kimonos.

January 18, 2018 at 10:40 am

tulle

Veteran

I love the look of jackets, and would feel anxious about my closet if it didn’t contain at least one tailored tweed, one dressy, one lightweight, and one unconventionally constructed jacket. But the truth is that my life is mostly so casual now, I don’t wear them as often as I’d like. Warm pullovers suit my rural life better. Luckily, jackets seem to have more longevity than some items, so I hang on to favorites. For hot weather, I prefer cropped cotton cardigans, or thin-but-structured shirts worn as jackets. I bought my daughter a couple of knitted blazers this Fall for her student teaching assignment. She’s broad-shouldered and busty, and found the slight drape of these jackets both comfortable and flattering.

January 18, 2018 at 10:43 am

Sara L.

Veteran

I wear both equally. I’m actually not one for layers so I don’t wear either all that frequently. Generally, I wear jackets to work and cardigans on the weekends for more casual occasions. There are exceptions to this – I enjoy a boyfriend blazer with jeans and a graphic tee for date nights, and I have a couple ruffled cardigans that I’ll wear to work.

January 18, 2018 at 10:55 am

MsMaven

Veteran

Knit jackets are my ideal. I bought two knit blazers last fall. They aren’t always around in the right style, but I look for them. I have always preferred structured blazers or jackets, but now that I spend a lot more time at home I prefer cardigans, although I’ll put on a jacket to go out.

January 18, 2018 at 11:02 am

texstyle

(website)

Veteran

Team jacket – I have one heavy sweater cardigan that I wear indoors only and that is the only one I own at this time. I do own a wide variety of jackets but don’t get to wear them as often as I’d like since we have a short spring/fall season and that’s when they seem most useful here.

January 18, 2018 at 11:04 am

bridgie

Veteran

Team long cardi. I am looking to buy a nice jacket this spring. Actually swing both ways, between cardis and jackets. Being retired has made a big difference in my wardrobe selections!

January 18, 2018 at 11:54 am

Karie

(website)

Veteran

I absolutely prefer jackets. I own a bazillion and wear them all the time. But having said that, there is a soft spot in my heart for twinsets and shorter cardigans, which have a retro-dressy vibe. I have a few of those and they see good bit of wear, especially during the spring months and when I travel.

January 18, 2018 at 1:24 pm

Lynn

Veteran

OK I am weird- I am on team neither. I hate wearing layers. I have never owned a blazer in my life and the thought of wearing one makes me cringe. When working I occasionally wore cardigans with sleeveless garments but much preferred to just wear a top. I never wore them with sleeved garments, it felt very uncomfortable to me. In the past I would wear outerwear only if I really had to and I only owned a couple of utilitarian pieces like a down coat and a loose fitting utility jacket for spring. BUT I have discovered I really like ponchos, sweater coats, and kimono type toppers as outerwear. The key is a loose and non-restricting fit. I am quite excited about building a capsule of these types of garments. I would never choose to wear a topper indoors now.

I admit it I have tactile issues :)))) Hate, hate tags in garments and can’t stand anything close fitting or rough feeling. It makes shopping a challenge but it is what it is.

January 18, 2018 at 1:36 pm

Deborah

Veteran

I feel I sit somewhere in the middle. I like the feel of a knit but with a little structure, particularly at the shoulder. I have two classic structured blazers but I rarely wear them as I find them restricting and being large busted I tend to feel all bust in them. The majority of my ‘jackets’ are softer fabrications. I don’t own any classic/traditional style cardigans as they just don’t suit me

January 18, 2018 at 2:41 pm

Jenn

(website)

Veteran

Team cardigan here. I do have a few jackets, and I like wearing them, but my work-at-home lifestyle makes cardigans feel more appropriate. I have several in my wardrobe, in a variety of weights and lengths.

January 18, 2018 at 3:32 pm

Mainelady

Veteran

I am on Team Both. Angie your pros for jackets and cardigans are spot on and both can be found in my wardrobe, across seasons. I have a few sweater/ coat crossovers that I adore.

January 18, 2018 at 3:34 pm

Cee

Veteran

I prefer jackets or blazers due to my dislike of Lord Cardigan who stuffed up the Charge of the Light Brigade !

January 18, 2018 at 3:37 pm

Aquamarine

Veteran

Angie, I think jackets used to feel too formal for me. However, there are so many choices now that perhaps I didn’t consider before, like moto jackets (I love them on me now). I am also really appreciating the structure as I get older and my body gets a little softer

January 18, 2018 at 4:45 pm

Keix

Veteran

Before discovering YLF, I don’t think I owned any jackets besides the kind designed as fall outerwear. I’ve since collected quite a few, but I find myself gravitating towards cardigans more often for the comfort level. I also love a good wool sweatercoat, which has the softness of a cardi with the structure of a jacket (and is less formal-looking than a ponte knit blazer, which is important for my ultra-casual office).

January 18, 2018 at 4:58 pm

kkards

Veteran

when i 1st found YLF, i was probably wearing them equally, as i came to refine my style, it became clear to me that jackets were more the current me…that’s still how i feel. but cardigans are definitely on my never say never list…

January 18, 2018 at 5:05 pm

Debbie

Veteran

I love jackets but where I live doesn’t give me a chance to wear them year round. I like cardigans with interesting details. Although I am eyeing a jacket at Banana Republic.

January 18, 2018 at 5:20 pm

smittie

I like the idea of a sweatercoat, as KL mentions.

I am small up top and love jackets with a bit of padding, lapels or details in the upper chest and shoulder area.m to crest some girth.

I also like circle cardigans (the kind that make semi circles on either side) in thick knots so that the knot doesn’t bunch together.

Any thin knit cardigan bunches up near my armpits. I feel like my shoulders aren’t broad enough and that the cardigan is going to fall off.

January 18, 2018 at 6:18 pm

Windchime

Veteran

I love my cardigans and wear them frequently as toppers in fall and winter. I like the drape, the warmth, and the ease of cardigans.

That being said, I do have a couple jackets–not blazers–which also receive regular wear, although not as much as my cardigans.

I’ve been thinking about adding a long-ish black blazer to my wardrobe. When I look at blazers, I gravitate toward less strict, less structured styles. I admire structured blazers on others, but it doesn’t feel right for my own style.

January 18, 2018 at 7:31 pm

MsMary

Veteran

Team Jackets 4evah!! Every day and twice on Sunday!!

January 18, 2018 at 8:24 pm

Joy

Veteran

Team jackets for especially your last 4 reasons. A few years ago I even banished all cardigans, but a few have crept back when the boyfriend cardigans became popular, I like me the longer open no-buttons ones best and still stay away from the traditional little cardigans. Cardigans get worn most when I need a topper in summer, especially with a frock. I long for traditional blazers to come back to wear with jeans although they are a hard fit on my body.

January 18, 2018 at 9:31 pm

Lesley

Veteran

I remember that twinset! I didn’t realize I had been reading that long. I loved it then and I love it now. Way to subvert the goody-goody look that can come with a twinset, with those amazing colors and that pattern.

I am mostly team cardigan since I work from home, but I have been more interested in blazers lately. I only have a black velvet one but I like that patterned blazers are coming into style, since maybe eventually I’ll see a pattern that feels right and I can add one to my closet!

January 19, 2018 at 1:25 am

Style Fan

Veteran

Love the models and their outfits! I would wear what they have on any day. I want those jeans!!!! I am on Team Both. I love jackets. I have a nice collection of blazers, jean jackets, leather jackets, etc. that add structure to my outfit. I like the way the outfits look when I wear an outfit. I also have an assortment of cardigans (long and short) that I love. I probably wear a cardigan daily. I love soft clothing.
My favourite piece is a jacket that is made of sweatshirt material but does not look like it. Very soft and it molds to me like you described Angie but still gives me structure. I need more of these.

January 19, 2018 at 1:38 am

Brooklyn

Veteran

I like both, but for different purposes. To me a jacket feels more sharp and elegant, while a cardigan is more comfortable and convenient. I wear cardigans a lot in warmer weather. I like that you can just shove them into your bag when you don’t need them (not so easy with a jacket). And they are great for layering under jackets and coats. But jackets excite me much more because they add structure and are great statement pieces.

January 19, 2018 at 3:38 am

UmmLila (Lisa)

Veteran

Weather permitting, I always like a jacket better. But they don’t always play well with winter coats and layers.

January 19, 2018 at 5:42 am

Angie

(website)

Fashion Stylist

WOW. Equal love for jackets and cardigans. Fabulous.

January 19, 2018 at 6:43 am

Ginger

Veteran

Angie, I doubt you have. The only ones I have that fit well right now are vintage suit jackets (1940s and 1950s). The tailoring is a wonderful. We’ve just come out of a really cold stretch, so I may try to wear one and take some pictures.

January 19, 2018 at 6:53 am

Angie

(website)

Fashion Stylist

Ginger, I hope to see you in one of those jackets soonest.

January 19, 2018 at 7:06 am

Lyn D.

Veteran

I prefer jackets generally, those with an element of stretch best.
I do have a few cardigans that are part of intentional outfits.
I like everything to match so am not a fan of carrying a cardigan ‘ just in case I need it’ because it can look like an afterthought.

January 19, 2018 at 1:01 pm

Firecracker (Sharan)

Veteran

Team cardigan! Jackets often feel too fussy and dressy for me. But I do have a growing collection of jackets. They have to be just right to work for me.

January 19, 2018 at 7:00 pm

Maria Killam

(website)

Since I read years ago that you preferred jackets over cardigans for these very reasons I have stopped buying cardigans and now I know why I wasn’t a big fan in the first place.
Love your blog Angie,
Maria

January 20, 2018 at 7:39 am

lena

(website)

I think both are very beautiful and that’s why I also have several versions of both in my closet. Depending on the occasion, I put on a cardigan or a jacket.

January 22, 2018 at 3:17 am

Tanya

Veteran

I am back here to comment, as I wrote and lost a huge post on the day it was published and had not time to re-write it. I am jacket girl all the way for all the reasons Gryffin mentioned. I always wear one when I have even a regular weekly meeting at work. I am quite a fan of jacket/cardigan hybrids and find them incredibly useful, especially moto shapes. While I am not the biggest fan of cardigans, they still have their place in my wardrobe. I only own a small number, and have intentions to get a few more very specific ones. Their main role is to dress down dressier sheath dresses for work, as denim jacket is not an option there.

January 23, 2018 at 5:38 am

Ann McCorrel

Member

I’ve thought about getting more cardis because Winter is becoming milder each year and a jacket is too hot for the office, but I need to get used to the change…

January 24, 2018 at 11:52 pm

Jennifer

Team cardigan here! I’m a high school teacher known to have an authoritative personality. A blazer would only exacerbate that. (Not to mention jackets are hard to fit my short torso and large upper arms.) I find cardigans soften my look and make me appear more approachable. I need to keep order, but I don’t want to give the poor kids heart attacks!

January 28, 2018 at 5:08 am

About the Author

Jackets Versus Cardigans

Jackets

Cardigans

Forum conversations about this post

Recent Ensembles

Recent Trends

About the Author

Jackets

Cardigans

Forum conversations about this post

Share this Post

Recent Ensembles

Recent Trends