Cardigans are one of the most indispensable women's knitwear items you can invest in. Feminine, soft and stylish, cardigans can morph from office-ready garments to weekend-cosy outer layers without skipping a beat. Whether you’re heading out to a sports game, a relaxed brunch, or to an evening catch up, there is the perfect knit cardigan for every setting.
Let’s take a look at knit cardigans, understand why they’re such useful fashion items, and take a dive into the different knit cardigan fabrics, colours, prints and styles you might opt for.
Why are knit cardigans so awesome?
Cardigans are a super versatile garment that can be worn in pretty much any setting. Read this list of reasons why you simply must incorporate cardigans into your ensembles!
They’re lightweight: Sometimes a jumper just feels too heavy, whereas knit cardigans are usually a little lighter. They are also great garments to throw into your carry bag, for in case it gets cold.
They work well with underlayers: When you want to wear a blouse with a pretty collar, or a graphic t-shirt, you don’t want a jumper messing things up. I mean, women's jumpers are essential, but sometimes they can look a little bulky with a feminine blouse collar, or they cover that cool t-shirt print you really want to show off. That’s why cardigans can work really well. You can just leave them undone, and gain the warmth you need on your back and shoulders, while still getting to show off those base layers.
They allow airflow: Cardigans are open at the front, which reduces that feeling of overheating. For cardigans with buttons, you can do up as many buttons as you wish in order to feel comfortable, and with buttonless varieties, you can choose to use a waist belt, or leave the cardigan loose, according to your preference.
There are a variety of cardigan designs available: No matter the type of event you’re heading to, or even if you’re staying in, there’s a cardigan perfectly suited to the setting. Whether it’s a knit cardigan with pretty pearl buttons and feminine balloon sleeves (ideal for an evening adventure), or a soft, longline cardigan with pockets, (comfortable and stylish wear for the home office), there’s a cardigan to satisfy your warmth requirements and flatter your body shape.
Let’s look at what cardigans you might opt for in the following common settings.
The cardigan at work
In the workplace, cardigans bring practical warmth and sophistication—especially solid knits or smooth yarns, which offer a streamlined, polished look. Coatigans or longline cardigans can work as softer alternatives to blazers. Also consider longline cardigans with belts, as the belt helps to create a flattering silhouette, and tie your outfit together. (These look particularly good over knit dresses.)
When styling cardigans for work, choosing neutral tones, like camel, navy, camel, or charcoal, will always offer a subdued and professional look. In formal workplaces, bold prints and fluffy knits will likely be the wrong vibe, but if your workplace is a free and fun place, then of course go for whichever cardigan takes your fancy!
For an easy office ensemble, pair a cardigan with a crisp collared shirt, and pop the shirt collar just over the top of the cardigan, and add ankle-length trousers and loafers. Keep the cardigan buttoned-up if you want to look extra tidy.
Cardigans for city adventures
When you're roaming around the city, you want a relaxed but pulled-together look. Try a cropped cardigan over a tank top or t-shirt and high-rise jeans, leaving the cardigan unbuttoned for an effortless touch. A striped or pastel-colored cardigan adds personality, while a bold print can make the cardigan the hero of your outfit.
For layering, consider adding women’s outerwear such as a trench coat or light denim jacket over your cardigan, especially in transitional weather. Sneakers and a crossbody bag finish the look.
Cardigans for the footy!
Comfort is key when heading to a sports event (of any variety). Think chunky cable knit cardigans layered over a fitted tee or long-sleeve top. Or throw the cardigan over your shoulders or tie it around your waist—both options are practical and stylish, especially when you’re moving between indoor and outdoor spaces.
A hooded knit cardigan is also a great option, as it adds that warmth you need outdoors without looking too dressed up.
You can opt for team colours if you are a mad fan, otherwise, choose colours that go well with your skin tone (potentially you’ll be under harsh stadium lights). Remember, if you’re having some drinks and hot chips, you might want to opt for a dark coloured cardigan, or a knit with a pattern, as those styles won’t show up food spills so easily. (Just a tip!)
Cardigans with Coffee
A coffee date is the perfect opportunity to mix cosy with chic. Start with a soft fluffy knit cardigan in a pastel colour or playful print and layer it over a midi dress or a flowy blouse and jeans. Leave the cardigan half-buttoned for a modern twist, and if the weather is warm, you can even drape it over your shoulders.
A cardigan vest also shines here—worn over a white tee or collared shirt, it gives a fresh spin on a classic brunch outfit. Accessorise with dainty jewellery, sunnies, and oversized tote.
Cardigan for the shops
Layers are your best friend when you're trying on clothes or walking in and out of shops. A waterfall cardigan is ideal—it flows beautifully and is easy to take on and off. Pair it with a basic tee, high-rise leggings or denim pants, and comfortable sneakers.
Neutral tones like beige or grey work well here, allowing you to swap in statement pieces if you pick any up along the way. Tie your cardigan around your waist if you get too warm—it’s functional and adds a casual-cool vibe to your outfit.
Cardigans for an afternoon stroll
For a leisurely walk—whether it’s a beachside ramble or dog walk through a park—opt for a lightweight knit that is breathable, unrestrictive, and easy to layer. Or consider a cable knit with pockets, so you have somewhere to stash your phone and keys.
A collared shirt peeking out from beneath the cardigan neckline adds dimension, while rolling up the cardi sleeves keeps the look relaxed. Choose soft earth tones or calming greens and blues to match the mood of the outdoors.
Night out at the cinema
Movie nights are all about cosy comfort, and a chunky knit cardigan delivers on both. Go for deeper tones like forest green, maroon, or charcoal, and wear it buttoned up like a top over jeans or wide-leg pants.
If your cinema outing is a little more sophisticated, (say you’re heading to a film festival or movie premiere), then opt for a more stylish cardigan. A cropped cardigan tucked into high-waisted trousers makes for a polished silhouette. Add a crossbody bag and low block heels for a look that’s cosy enough for the flicks but suitably stylish for a cinematic event!
Evening dinner with friends
Here’s where the cardigan goes luxe. A longline cardigan in a fine, smooth knit draped over a sleek dress or satin blouse and tailored pants looks elegant, yet understated. Choose rich hues like fuchsia, classic blue, or even sleek black to add drama.
If you want to wear your cardigan as a statement piece, try a fitted, buttoned-up style with voluminous sleeves and tuck it into a midi skirt. Throw on some statement earrings, heeled boots, and you’ve got the perfect mix of graceful and cosy.
Colour, Fabric & Fit Tips
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Cardigan colours: Neutral shades (camel, grey, black, white) are versatile options that will work well with a range of base layers. Don’t be shy, however, of trying seasonal hues or statement prints, especially if you want to add some personal flair to your outfit.
In terms of seasonal choices, soft pinks and sage greens work great in spring, while rust and navy look just right for cooler months.
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Fabric:
- Fluffy knits = cosy and casual.
- Smooth knits = polished and work-friendly.
- Cable knits = classic and textured.
- Solid knits = timeless and adaptable.
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Fit:
- Fitted styles look sharp and structured.
- Oversized fits feel modern and relaxed.
- Make sure the shoulder seams sit properly when choosing your cardigan size. Also try to ensure that the hemline flatters your height (longer styles tend to elongate, whereas cropped cardigans highlight the waist).
Cardigan Styling Hacks
- Layering: Cardigans make excellent layering pieces over button-down shirts, tank tops, t-shirts, and dresses.
- Shoulders: Draping a cardigan over your shoulders instantly adds a “put-together” element to your outfit. It is also a good option for when you aren’t super cold, but want a little coverage on your shoulders.
- Cardigan around neck or waist: Remember you can always tie a cardigan loosely around your neck or your waist if you don’t want to hold it or put it in your bag.
- Versatility: A buttoned-up cardigan can be worn as a base layer. Or else, wear it as outerwear—buttoned or unbuttoned.
- Keep it tidy: There’s a risk with knit cardigans that they can lose their polish if not well cared for. So follow care instructions when washing your cardigans, and consider using a lint shaver if you notice any pilling on your cardigan fabric.
- Avoid oversized cardigans at work, as they can look bulky, and can drown out the rest of your outfit. At home or out to the park though, bring it on!
- Pockets are your friend: If you like to carry a few things around the office or home, look for cardigans with pockets, as they can be super handy for carrying small items like swipe cards and pens.
Knit cardigans at Femme Connection
With endless styling possibilities, the knit cardigan deserves more than just a cosy night in. It's a wardrobe hero ready for anything—just like you! Be sure to check out Femme Connection’s range of knit cardigans for women, with styles available for all seasons!
Knitwear Australia:
If you want to access a wide range of knitwear, including knit dresses, knit jumpers, knit cardigans, Femme Connection are your reliable source! With a wide range of styles, prints, colours, fabrics and sizes, you can be certain to find exactly the women's knitwear you desire.