Cardigans are still very popular with my clients because they are softer, less dressy and structured, and more cozy than jackets. They are also a great item to wear at home, especially when you work from home. Layer them over a tee, shirt, blouse or thinner pullover. Or over a dress.
Retail saturated the market with the classic, round neck, cropped cardigan, and I think we’re still bearing the brunt of the absolute overkill of that style. Plus, you have to be careful with the frump factor and that specific style of cardi because it can veer into dowdy territory before you know it. You’re better off with a more current style of cardigan that’s generally longer, looser, has more drape, and interesting design details.
- J.Crew Double-knit merino wool long cardigan: You have to see this cardigan from the side to fully appreciate the cut. It has a high-low hemline and side vents that make it come alive and look a lot fresher than a regular Grandpa style. Excellent angular drape, and a winner with clients.
- Banana Republic Merino Wool Long Cardigan: Extra long tunic cardigans are especially gorgeous layered over sheath dresses. A nice bridging piece for Autumn.
- Haute Hippie Oversize Argyle Cardigan: Here's a more dramatic version in argyle for Team Tall.
- H&M Wool-blend Cardigan: Defining a long straight cardigan at the waist with a belt looks fresh this season, especially in a shade of brown.
- H&M Long Cardigan: Here's a more cocoon style extra long cardi that's chic over a column of colour. As fab over a sheath dress.
- Alexander Wang Oversized Fine-knit Wool Cardigan: A more avant-garde style that's great worn over black leather leggings.
- Club Monaco Callie Wrap: A chunky knit cardi with mixed media pockets and excellent angular drape. I love the way this silhouette stands away from the body in a structured way.
- Club Monaco Balia Sweater Jacket: A wonderful chunky cropped cardigan with an oversized collar. Best on those with a long neck.
- Curio Moto Zip Patchwork Cardigan: A mixed media moto that's super soft with fun back detail.
- Karen Millen Check and plain cardigan: A crisp and preppy bomber style cardigan with a tartan sleeve. Impeccable quality.
- AllSaints Itat Shrug: The usual kind of cocoon shape cardi from AllSaints that has also been a winner with clients. It wraps into a pullover style so take a closer look. Lightweight and delicate.
- Mayer Cardigan: A subtly cascading cardi with fun chevron stripes.
- Banana Republic Textured Extra-Fine Merino Wool Open Cardigan: A cascading cardi in a marled grey with side entry pockets.
- Dakota Collective Adeline Cocoon Sweater: A little mixed media in a round bottom style in a warm silver grey.
- Carla Long Cardigan: Extra dramatic and long for Team Tall Avant-Garde. The V-neck hangs low but a camisole provides ample coverage. Gorgeous over jeggings.
- Pure DKNY Cardigan with Leather Sleeves: A rich, hard-edged look with a tuxedo-esque notched collar and subtle cables. Pricey, but doubles up as a sweater coat.
- Banana Republic Textured Cocoon Long Cardigan: A loosely knitted cocoon tunic cardigan for milder weather. Lovely stitch interest.
I don’t have a single cardigan in my closet because I prefer to wear pullovers with jackets and coats. That said, I love the look of these cardigans on others and I’m pleased that there is a large assortment for my cardigan-loving clientele.
