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The Best Women’s Cardigans

Last updated on March 24, 2022
Best Women's Cardigans

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Few clothing items are as versatile as a cardigan. You can toss it over any top and pants and create a look. You can also keep it on hand at your desk for those days when the office is a little colder than you’d like.

But there are many types of cardigans available. First, you’ll notice the large number of color and pattern choices. Then there’s the material. If warmth is your goal, a chunkier sweater that feels like a big blanket may be more to your liking. But you can find sweaters that incorporate materials that provide warmth while also keeping the build thin.

There’s also a difference in length. If you’re looking for a sweater to pair with leggings, you may want to look for one that extends below the hips, but with jeans or pants, you can find sweaters that stop at the waist, or you can go for a longer one.

For dressier settings, there are sweaters that pair well with skirts and dress pants. You can often find these in a wide variety of colors to let you mix and match with your favorite lower-body garments. Some can be dressed up to wear to work and paired with jeans and boots to wear for a day shopping with friends.

Our Picks For The Top Women's Cardigans

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Product Overview
Our Take
 Top Pick

Traleubie Lightweight Pocketed Women’s Cardigans

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Traleubie

Lightweight Pocketed Women’s Cardigans

Designed for more of a loose fit, this women's cardigan adds a touch of style to your favorite pair of jeans. The sweater features an open front and falls mid-thigh. It's lightweight and available in 19 fun colors, such as red, royal blue, light tan and grass green.

Overall Take

Comfortable for Daily WearThe two spacious side pockets on this women's cardigan are perfect for warming hands or holding your cell when not in use.

 Best for Summer

Dokotoo Loose Kimono Cardigan

Dokotoo

Loose Kimono Cardigan

This loose floral cardigan is a versatile item that can be worn anywhere, from a beach to a party. It is made from polyester and spandex. The cardigan has a flowy and bohemian vibe.

Overall Take

Boho VibesWear this loose cardigan at the beach, at a party or around town.

 Runner Up

VOIANLIMO Ribbed Edges Everyday Women’s Cardigan

VOIANLIMO

Ribbed Edges Everyday Women’s Cardigan

This lightweight women’s knit cardigan has a casual, relaxed design. It is made with 80% viscose and 20% nylon. It also features two front pockets, ribbed cuffs and a pretty ribbed shawl collar that runs all the way down its sides.

Overall Take

A Modern Look for HerThis women's cardigan with pockets is lightweight and finely knit. It can be dressed down or up with ease.

 Also Great

Amazon Essentials Women’s Classic Fit Long-Sleeve V-Neck Cardigan

Amazon Essentials

Women's Classic Fit Long-Sleeve V-Neck Cardigan

Available in 19 solid colors, this women's cardigan is a great piece to add to your work wardrobe. It can be worn for both dressy and casual occasions. It's available in sizes from XS to XXL and is a cotton-polyester blend that's both lightweight and warm.

Overall Take

Best BasicThis women's cardigan can pair with dress pants or a pair of jeans for a wide range of occasions.

What to Look For

  • Some cardigans have built-in pockets that serve as a handy place to store your keys, your phone or other items you have on hand.
  • There are plenty of cardigans with buttons, but many fashionistas choose to leave their cardigans open. That has brought a demand for open-front cardigans that don’t even bother with buttons. If you want the option to button up occasionally, look for a sweater that has buttons that will survive multiple washings.
  • The best thing about cardigans is that they can be paired with leggings, which have become a very popular winter garment.
  • Some people prefer a looser fit for their cardigans. If that’s your style, size up a little.
  • If you can, it’s best to keep your sweaters out of the dryer. Wash on delicate and spread them on a towel to dry. This will help a sweater retain its original shape.
  • Over time, pilling can become a problem with sweaters. If you start to see pilling, remove it right away to keep the problem from worsening.
  • To ensure you’re getting a high-quality sweater, look closely at the patterns on it. Sometimes uneven patterns can be a sign of poor workmanship.

More to Explore

The cardigan sweater was named for James Brudenell, who was the 7th Earl of Cardigan. Lord Cardigan, as he was called, is perhaps best known for leading the Charge of the Light Brigade, which was initially reported as a successful mission. Soon after, merchants began designing waistcoats similar to the ornate ones Lord Brudenell reportedly wore for the mission.

Unfortunately, the Charge of the Light Brigade wasn’t quite the success it was supposed to be. The troops were sent to the wrong location and, as a result, there were mass casualties with no clear gains. But the concept of the cardigan remained, and over time it evolved to become the wardrobe staple it is today.

More to explore