While coats and jackets are often reserved for the dead of winter, the cardigan provides the ideal balance of warmth without the bulk. It can be effortlessly dressed up or down depending on the occasion, and with so many variations available—oversized, cropped, buttoned, or open-front—there’s a cardigan for everyone.
From luxurious cashmere to soft cotton blends, the range of materials and styles make it an essential piece in any winter wardrobe. In this guide, we’ll examine why cardigans are the go-to for transitional weather and how to choose the perfect one for your style, budget, and lifestyle. Whether after something classic, trendy, or ultra-cozy, these top 15 cardigans will keep you looking stylish and comfortable through the seasons. Let’s dive into the top picks you can wear this season.
Why Cardigans Are Essential
As the days shorten and the temperatures dip, one wardrobe piece stands out as a versatile, year-round staple: the cardigan. Whether layering for warmth during chilly mornings or trying to combat frigid winter evenings, the cardigan is your reliable companion. Beyond its practicality, cardigans are a stylish option that easily adapts to all looks, from casual to polished.
Cardigans have come a long way since their humble beginnings as simple, practical sweaters. Today, they come in various styles, cuts, and fabrics, ensuring a perfect cardigan for every occasion. Whether you’re running errands on a cool afternoon, headed to the office, or planning an evening out, there’s a cardigan that works for you.
What makes cardigans so essential is their adaptability. Unlike bulky jackets or coats, cardigans offer just the right amount of warmth while being easy to remove when temperatures fluctuate. They’re lightweight enough for layering but still warm enough to stand alone in milder weather. The cardigan balances style and comfort, from oversized knits perfect for casual looks to fitted, sleek options ideal for office wear.
Beyond practicality, the sheer variety of cardigans available—from lightweight cotton blends to luxe cashmere options—makes them perfect for every season. Whether layering over a dress, pairing it with jeans, or wearing it as a standalone piece, the right cardigan can make your winter wardrobe feel fresh, stylish, and cozy. Explore top cardigans tailored to every taste, budget, and occasion.
Top 15 Cardigans for Every Style and Budget
When choosing the right cardigan, the key is finding the perfect balance of style, material, fit, and price. Whether you’re looking for a timeless piece to wear on repeat or a trendy option that will turn heads, there’s a cardigan for every need. From budget-friendly choices to luxurious splurges, these picks will ensure you’re covered through winter and beyond.
1. Best Overall: Madewell Ribbed Alpaca-Blend Cardigan Sweater
The Madewell Ribbed Alpaca-Blend Cardigan is the ultimate all-rounder, blending comfort, warmth, and style in a single piece. Made from a soft alpaca blend, this cardigan is perfect for layering. It features a relaxed fit that’s neither tight nor loose, with trendy puffed sleeves and a ribbed design that adds texture and visual interest. The neutral tones—gray, cream, and taupe—make it versatile and easy to pair with everything from casual jeans to a dressier skirt.
- Material: Alpaca, polyamide
- Price: $98
- Best For: Everyday wear, layering over dresses, casual outfits, and office attire.
2. Best Cropped: Free People Lila Crop Cardigan
Cropped cardigans continue to trend, and Free People‘s Lila Crop Cardigan stands out. The cropped cut hits just above the waist, making it an ideal match for high-waisted jeans, skirts, or dresses. The oversized fit adds a laid-back vibe, while the large tortoiseshell buttons elevate the look. This cardigan is a perfect choice if you want a piece that’s both cozy and chic.
- Material: Cotton, acrylic
- Price: $98
- Best For: Casual outings, pairing with high-waisted pants or skirts.
3. Best for Work: Uniqlo Souffle Yarn Short Cardigan
If you’re looking for a cardigan that will work in a professional setting, look no further than Uniqlo‘s Souffle Yarn Short Cardigan. The wool-blend material provides warmth without being itchy, and the V-neck cut keeps it sleek and professional. This cardigan is perfect for layering over blouses or shirts at the office while still offering a relaxed enough fit to be comfortable throughout the workday.
- Material: Acrylic, polyester, wool, spandex
- Price: $50
- Best For: Business casual, layering under blouses and dresses for work.
4. Best Cashmere: State Cashmere Women’s 100% Pure Cashmere Cardigan
The State Cashmere 100% Pure Cashmere Cardigan is the perfect splurge for those who appreciate luxury. This cardigan is made from soft, high-quality cashmere and feels like a dream against the skin. It’s lightweight yet insulating, offering just the right amount of warmth without being too heavy. The simple button-up design allows for easy layering and is chic enough to wear casually and for more formal occasions.
- Material: 100% Cashmere
- Price: $150
- Best For: Travel, layering over dresses, upscale layering, or as an elevated outerwear piece.
5. Best Under $100: Abercrombie Crew Cardigan
The Abercrombie Crew Cardigan is an excellent pick for an affordable cardigan that keeps quality high. Featuring ribbed detailing and gold buttons that add an elevated touch, this cardigan combines a relaxed fit with just enough structure to look polished. Whether pairing it with jeans for a weekend outing or layering it over a dress for dinner, it works well with almost any outfit.
- Material: Polyester, nylon, acrylic, wool
- Price: $70
- Best For: Casual looks, layering over dresses or shirts, and everyday wear.
6. Best Oversized: J.Crew Relaxed Cable-Knit Cardigan Sweater
If you prefer a roomy and versatile cardigan, the J.Crew Relaxed Cable-Knit Cardigan is the ultimate oversized piece. The chunky cable knit texture provides warmth and texture, while the relaxed fit ensures maximum comfort. The V-neckline is perfect for layering over collared shirts, dresses, or other sweaters. This cardigan is ideal as a cozy outer layer when temperatures start to dip.
- Material: Acrylic, merino wool, alpaca
- Price: $113 (on sale)
- Best For: Layering in colder months, casual chic, or a cozy sweater jacket.
7. Best Under $50: Gap CashSoft Cardigan
For those on a tighter budget, the Gap CashSoft Cardigan provides softness and comfort without breaking the bank. This cardigan is made from a cotton-nylon blend and has a plush feel that rivals pricier options. It features a slightly cropped cut, flattering with high-waisted jeans or skirts. The cardigan is available in a range of neutral tones that will fit seamlessly into any wardrobe.
- Material: Cotton, nylon
- Price: $34
- Best For: Everyday wear, casual styling, and layering with jeans or skirts.
8. Best V-Neck: Satuun Women’s V Neck Long Sleeve Cropped Cardigan
V-neck cardigans are timeless, and the Satuun Women’s Cropped V-neck Cardigan is an excellent option for adding a touch of femininity to your wardrobe. The deep V-neck and cropped cut make this cardigan easy to layer with high-waisted pants, skirts, or dresses. The versatile design is available in multiple colors, making it easy to coordinate with different outfits.
- Material: Polyamide, viscose, microfiber, elastane
- Price: $33
- Best For: Casual wear, layering with dresses or skirts.
9. Best Cable-Knit: Topshop Cable Stitch Crop Cardigan
The Topshop Cable Stitch Crop Cardigan is an excellent option for those looking for a classic texture with a contemporary twist. The cropped length is perfect for pairing high-waisted trousers or skirts, while the intricate cable-knit design adds dimension. This piece is ideal for adding texture to your wardrobe without feeling too heavy.
- Material: Cashmere
- Price: $62
- Best For: Casual outfits, layering over dresses or skirts.
10. Best Argyle: Reformation Clara Cashmere Crew Cardigan
If you want to add a touch of sophistication to your cardigan collection, the Reformation Clara Cashmere Crew Cardigan is a must-have. Its tailored fit and timeless argyle pattern makes it feel classic yet modern, perfect for casual and dressed-up looks. Whether you pair it with jeans or dress it up with tailored trousers, this cardigan elevates your style instantly.
- Material: Cashmere
- Price: $248
- Best For: Dressy occasions, sophisticated layering, and office wear.
11. Best for Travel: Jenni Kayne Cotton Cocoon Cardigan
When you’re on the go and need a cardigan that’s both cozy and practical, the Jenni Kayne Cotton Cocoon Cardigan is a top pick. Made from a soft cotton blend, this cardigan has a relaxed fit that allows for easy movement, making it ideal for travel. The cocoon shape provides extra room, and the simple yet elegant design ensures it pairs easily with everything from leggings to jeans.
It’s soft enough for lounging and elevated enough to look polished when paired with other chic pieces. If you’re looking for a cardigan that will withstand the test of time and multiple washes, this is a splurge worth considering.
- Material: Cotton
- Price: $395
- Best For: Travel, casual-chic outfits, and layering
12. Best for a Luxe Feel: Everlane The Classic Cashmere Cardigan
Everlane is known for its focus on high-quality, ethically made clothing, and the Classic Cashmere Cardigan is no exception. This cardigan is made from 100% luxurious cashmere, offering warmth and softness without feeling bulky. Its minimalist, tailored design makes it perfect for layering over both casual and more formal outfits. It’s an investment piece that adds a touch of elegance to your wardrobe while providing all the comfort of a well-made, soft cardigan.
The slightly cropped fit is flattering and pairs beautifully with high-waisted jeans or a sleek skirt. Whether you’re wearing it to work or out for a dinner date, this cardigan exudes sophistication.
- Material: 100% Cashmere
- Price: $178
- Best For: Luxe layering, office wear, and evening looks
13. Best for Cozy Comfort: Sézane Gaspard Cardigan
Sézane’s Gaspard Cardigan is the definition of cozy chic. Made from a blend of alpaca and mohair, it is both warm and incredibly soft to the touch. It’s perfect for lounging around the house or wearing on those chillier days when you want to look stylish without sacrificing comfort. The snug fit and beautiful mother-of-pearl buttons elevate its simple design, making it a versatile option that pairs well with loungewear and casual street style.
Another bonus? It’s reversible, so wear it backward to create a different look. This flexibility makes the Gaspard Cardigan a true closet staple.
- Material: Alpaca, Mohair, Polyamide
- Price: $120
- Best For: Cozy days, casual wear, versatile styling
14. Best for Statement Style: Tuckernuck Colette Cardigan
If you’re looking for a cardigan with a bit more flair, the Tuckernuck Pink Salt Colette Cardigan is the perfect pick. This cardigan features puffed, billowy sleeves that create a dramatic, fashion-forward silhouette. Its cropped fit adds to the style’s youthful, playful vibe, making it an excellent match for skirts, high-waisted jeans, or layering over dresses.
The chunky knit texture and luxe gold buttons add a touch of sophistication, elevating this cardigan to something that can be worn for casual outings and more dressed-up occasions. It combines fashion with function and will make you stand out in a crowd.
- Material: Cotton, Acrylic
- Price: $188
- Best For: Statement style, dressy-casual outfits, layering over dresses
15. Best for Sustainable Style: Reformation Clara Cashmere Crew Cardigan
The Reformation Clara Cashmere Crew Cardigan is a must-have for those who prefer investing in sustainable pieces. Made from 100% cashmere, this cardigan is a luxurious, eco-friendly option that pairs beautifully with any wardrobe. The tailored fit and classic crewneck design make it timeless, while the argyle pattern adds a subtle touch of preppy flair. It’s sophisticated enough for work or formal gatherings but can also be dressed down for more casual settings.
Its commitment to sustainability sets Reformation apart, so you can feel good about investing in this piece while enjoying its high-quality feel.
- Material: 100% Cashmere
- Price: $248
- Best For: Sustainable luxury, workwear, dressy-casual outfits
Stay Cozy, Stylish, and Comfortable All Season Long with a Cardigan
Cardigans are more than just cozy sweaters—they’re versatile wardrobe staples that can be worn in various ways across multiple seasons. Whether you opt for a soft cashmere blend for luxury or a more affordable cotton version for everyday wear, the cardigan is a piece that can carry you through.
From oversized, chunky knits to sleek, fitted silhouettes, a cardigan suits every style, occasion, and budget. Whether layering over casual outfits, dressing up for the office, or seeking comfort during colder months, a cardigan is the perfect addition to your seasonal wardrobe. You can stay cozy, stylish, and comfortable all season long with the right choices.
