Cardigans are shaping up to be a key fashion staple of the season, with 504,000 UK Google searches for this knitwear piece in the past month alone, which is 72% higher than last quarter. When asked to describe a cardigan in three words, the most common response from women revolved around comfort and warmth, 60% referenced the style and timelessness, and just under half listed versatility because of their layering ability. However, despite their warmth and versatility, the study conducted by FatFace found that most British women find them harder to style than jumpers with only 44% feeling confident in building an outfit around one.
So, to help women master the art of cardigan styling, we teamed up with the fashion brand and spoke with FatFace’s knitwear designer Helen Hauduc to share her tips on elevating this classic layering piece and highlight which common mistakes to avoid.
Experiment with buttoning:
“This year we’ve seen a huge increase in cardigans being buttoned in different ways, particularly either just the top button done or every single button. Experiment with different buttoning styles to give your cardigan a new look.”
Mix up the length:
“If you like a long or oversized cardigan for its cosiness and comfort, try switching it up with different lengths to achieve different shapes. Opting for a cropped cardigan with wide-leg jeans or a long skirt can lift the silhouette drawing the eye up and making your legs appear longer.”
Drape across your shoulders:
“One of the simplest ways to elevate an outfit at this time of year is to drape a cardigan or jumper across your shoulders. Choose one that contrasts with your dress or the rest of the outfit and tie both arms at the front for extra security. For chillier days, apply the same principle over a blazer or leather jacket.”
Wear under a statement coat to add depth:
“Longline coats and statement jackets are an autumn-winter staple, but styling a cardigan underneath can refresh the look and break up the harsh contrast between the coat and the top you’re wearing. Opt for a cardigan in a neutral but contrasting colour and choose a lighter fabric to avoid the coat appearing bulky. Button up the cardigan for a preppy look and leave the coat unbuttoned to appear effortlessly chic.”
Style over a slip dress for a Christmas party look:
“A well-fitting cardigan can be the perfect solution to nailing smart casual or ensuring a statement dress will keep you warm. Style a classic cream or statement-coloured one over a satin slip dress and pair it with boots or flats for the perfect evening look.”
“There’s room to experiment with shape and fit here so if your evening dress or skirt is maxi length and quite fitted, go for a slouchy and slightly longer shaped cardigan to dress down the look, or opt for a more fitted and cropped style to keep your proportions balanced.”
Tuck into jeans or a skirt:
“An easy way to give a buttoned-up cardigan a different look is to tuck it into jeans or a skirt. This will accentuate the waist and give your frame an hourglass appearance, whilst making the outfit look smarter and more put together. If you don’t want to add extra bulk around your stomach, folding the bottom of the cardigan in on itself and holding it in place with a belt underneath can give the same illusion – this also works for jumpers and sweatshirts.“
Make a statement with a colour-blocking:
“Cardigans are one of the key clothing items of the season, meaning going bold is often the best way to style them. Keep it neutral on the base with a plain white t-shirt and jeans, then layer with a brightly coloured cardigan for a pop of colour. Alternatively, go daring with colour blocking by pairing a brightly coloured cardigan with a contrasting dress or skirt.”
Helens five cardigan mistakes to avoid:
- Wearing a cardigan that’s too oversized
“Cardigans are often bulky and can have a more rounded, loose shape, meaning it’s important to avoid drowning your frame with one that’s too oversized. Instead, opt for a fitted design or a slouchy fit, that stops above your knees.”
- Unbalanced proportions
“A simple rule to follow with cardigans is to stick to a cropped or fitted cardigan if the rest of your outfit is long or oversized, then go longer with your cardigan when wearing fitted clothing or a shorter skirt or dress. This way your waistline will be defined and the look will appear balanced and in proportion.”
- Unflattering colour choices
“Wearing a cardigan in a shade close to your skin tone can wash you out and make an outfit appear dull and lifeless. Instead, choose a colour that adds warmth and complements your complexion, or adds a pop of colour to your look. We’re seeing shades like red, burgundy and powder blue everywhere at the moment and they make great colour options for a statement cardigan.”
- Incorrectly matching the occasion
“It’s important to consider the occasion when wearing a cardigan. They can be a great way to add an extra layer of warmth and dimension but can easily make an outfit appear more casual. This is perfect if that’s the intention but if you want to appear more formal, for example when heading to the office, opt for a fitted style with the buttons done up rather than an un-buttoned looser fit.”
- Over-accessorizing
“A cardigan can be a statement itself, especially if it’s bright or heavily knit. Avoid over-accessorizing with jewellery and patterned accessories as this can clash and make the outfit appear cluttered. Instead, keep it simple and opt for a refined necklace, monochrome hat and scarf, then go bolder with rings and earrings.”
For those looking to stock up on autumn essentials, check out FatFace’s wide range of women’s knitwear, dresses and women’s coats.
