How should a cardigan fit?

Tricia

I bought a black cardigan at Marshall's today and I like it, but I'm not positive that it's not the kind of not-quite-right thing I've been buying all along. It's a V-neck, hits a little longer (about low hips - a couple of inches above the crotch), and it has tiny pockets on the bottom front and a same-material belt.

I bought it in a medium, which is the size I usually wear, but it's very slim fitting. It fits me, but I'm not sure how "roomy" cardigans should be? I probably couldn't wear anything long sleeved underneath it because the sleeves are very close-fitting. I also wasn't sure if it might be too long to wear with a skirt or a dress.

If it helps, I'm a short (5'2") inverted triangle.

Thanks!

16 years ago

Dressing

10 replies

Latest reply was from Tricia

chewyspaghetti

Veteran

I think that if you can't fit a long sleeved T under your cardi, it's probably too tight.

16 years ago

April

Veteran

I'm interested to hear responses on this question as well.

It seems that my more classic (read: older) cardis do not have a close fit, and I often end up wearing them unbuttoned, with a belt beneath. More modern styles are more form-fitting, and can be belted on top without looking bulky.

But as to how they "should" fit -- hmmm, is there an Angie rule on this one?

16 years ago

Tricia

Veteran

I think I'm going to take it back. I can't seem to find cardigans that fit just right - they're either too long for my short frame, too slim fitting, too baggy, or, surprisingly, too short (the cropped styles hit right at my waist, and they look boxy and unflattering).

16 years ago

chewyspaghetti

Veteran

Have you tried petites? Look at the shoulder seams to get a good idea on fit. The cap seam should go right over your shoulder if it fits well. I like cardi's to skim the body, but not cling.

16 years ago

agrace

Active Member

Sounds like it might be too snug. Did they have any in large? Or petite as chewyspaghetti suggested?

16 years ago

Tricia

Veteran

No, no larges or petites (I looked to try to compare the fit). Man, it's hard to be short and busty at the same time!

16 years ago

Angie

(website)

Fashion Stylist

This is a hard question, Tricia. So much depends on you, your style and the look of the cardigan. Personally, I am completely off slim-fitting cardigans. I like them boxy, open and with a bit of movement no matter what their length. I like to belt them too. I’ve found this look more updated for my trendy fashion persona. A fab little androgynous touch that’s right up my alley.

However, if you prefer the more mainstream look then you want a cardi to fit the contour of your body WITHOUT pulling of clinging.

The cardi you’re describing sounds right. But if you want to wear anything other than a sleeveless top underneath it’s too small. I hope that makes sense.

16 years ago

Tricia

Veteran

Thanks, Angie. I want to try more layering, so I think I want a bigger one too. But boxy is tough for me because of my larger bust. Where should a cardigan hit on me to be flattering and not make me look too big on top?

16 years ago

Angie

(website)

Fashion Stylist

You’re absolutely right, Tricia. Boxy cardigans are harder to pull off with a larger chest, especially when you’re on the shorter side. But not imposibble! Wear them open and a little longer.

I like cardis both at the length you’ve described and a little shorter for your body type.

16 years ago

Tricia

Veteran

Thanks again! One more question - are crew-neck cardigans an absolute no-no for the busty, if worn open? I prefer V-neck but they're harder to find.

16 years ago

Category