A fashion item once dismissed as one that you’d only find in your grandma’s closet, the cardigan is finally back in season — this time it’s bringing personality with it. From prep-school chic to downtown grunge looks, this knitted bundle of warmth has evolved into an adaptable statement piece. Here are six unique ways to style your cardigan for every aesthetic.
The Classic Chic
If Audrey Hepburn had an Instagram feed in 2025, it would look like this. Think soft neutrals with cream, navy or pale blush undertones paired with high-waisted trousers or a sleek midi skirt. Button your cardigan halfway and have it tucked in front of your waistband to give it shape. Add a dainty gold necklace, ballet flats or casual heels, and maybe a silk scarf tied around your ponytail for an extra flourish. The look is put-together without trying too hard — perfect for a coffee run that might turn into a spontaneous date or hangout.
The Grunge Revival
Meet The Classic Chic’s rebellious cousin. Oversized, distressed and perfectly imperfect, this cardigan thrives on attitude. Throw it over a vintage band tee and pair it with ripped jeans or a pleated miniskirt. Embrace messy eyeliner, bedhead hair and chunky boots stomping down the street like you’re in a ’90s music video. Colors like deep maroon, faded black and forest green will set the mood, especially with pieces that are more worn-in.
The Streetwear Edge
Who said cozy can’t be cool? Try an oversized or cropped cardigan left unbuttoned over a white tee and baggy jeans or cargo pants. Layer some chains and add a baseball cap, then finish with your favorite sneakers like some Nike Dunks or Adidas Sambas. Maybe even spruce it up with whatever accessories you can find on Depop. This look says, “I just threw this on but still look edgy.” Play with colors like bold blue or a lime green and try checkerboard prints to make the outfit instantly streetwear ready.
The Romantic Retro
If your aesthetic is a mix between old-Hollywood glamour and 2000s nostalgia, this one’s for you. Grab a fitted cardigan and button it halfway, then pair it with a long silky skirt or high-waisted light-wash denim. Soft colors like lavender or blush pink keep this look dreamy. Adding pearls to accessorize with a glossy lip and a blowout makes this cozy, classy and endlessly photogenic — almost like falling in love in the middle of October.
The Androgynous Layer
Here’s where classic meets confidence. Style a chunky, structured cardigan over a collared shirt with wide-leg trousers or a miniskirt. Go for shades of brown, gray or navy for that editorial edge. Add some loafers or platform boots to complete this mature, casual look. This style works for anyone who loves mixing masculine and feminine silhouettes for events and professional settings when you want to make confidence your best accessory.
The 2000s Look
The “I just walked out of a 2000s movie” look turns your cardigan into an accessory. Channel your inner Rachel Green or Monica Geller by playing with color-blocking greens, lavenders and whites. And don’t be afraid of texture — fuzzy, cable-knit or ribbed cotton can add much-needed dimension to a simple outfit. This look is effortless but intentional, like you woke up and scrolled through Pinterest before breakfast.
Contact Audrey Soemarno at [email protected].