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We'll be honest—we weren't too keen on cardigans when designers first brought them back. But after seeing button-down knits in all shapes and silhouettes draped over the shoulders of our favorite celebs, It girls, and influencers, we've finally faced the facts: the cardigan is the one trend we never knew we needed. It's the perfect chic piece to get us through this summer-to-fall weather in style, it's easy to layer, and you can even wear one as a top if you're feeling extra trendy. Even better, cardigans are crazy comfortable. Need we say more?
With that in mind, we rounded up an edit of the 10 best cardigans on the market right now. Whether you want a trendier find you can wear buttoned up with jeans or a style that skews more classic, look no further than the cardigans ahead.
How We Found The Best Cardigans
To round up this list, we turned to the help of our unique algorithm. This proprietary tool factors in best-selling buzz, editor recommendations, and rave reviews to find and rank the best styles out there. From cropped, shrunken fits to slouchy picks you can throw on over anything, keep scrolling to discover and shop the 10 best cardigans you can buy.
Next up, check out the 10 Best Long Sleeve Tees. Opening image: everlane.com
September 17, 2021
Top 10 Lists serve as unbiased shopping guides to the most trusted product recommendations on the internet. Products are scored and ranked using an algorithm backed by data consumers find most valuable when making a purchase. We are reader-supported and may earn a commission when you shop through our links.
The Rankings
BB Dakota Cardi All The Time Sweater
CROPPED
WHO IT'S FOR: With its waist-skimming length and V-neckline, this pastel-colored pick is perfect for those that want to rock the cardigan-as-a-top trend.
STYLE WITH: Pair it with high-rise jeans for a super slimming effect.
En Saison Puff Sleeve Space Crew Cardigan
PUFF SLEEVE
WHY PEOPLE LOVE IT: Once fall hits, wearing sweaters 24/7 can get old real fast. But with its space-dye design and puff sleeves, this statement-making cardigan is the perfect way to switch things up.
STYLE WITH: Button it up over a white tank and add simple jewelry for an easy everyday look.
Madewell Bellaire Cardigan Sweater
CLASSIC
WHY IT MADE THE LIST: This is the kind of cardigan that checks all the boxes. With its slim fit and soft, airy yarn, it has that classic look you want from a go-to cardigan but still looks trendy worn as a top or thrown over a dress.
USER REVIEW: "In late summer, the softness of the cardigan already invokes the thought of crisp fall mornings and evenings. It's ideal for when you're out and feeling a bit chilly. It has a perfect loose fit, and the color combines with a lot of other colors. Happy with this purchase!"
H&M Rib-Knit Cardigan
AFFORDABLE
WHY PEOPLE LOVE IT: Even though it rings up at just $20, reviewers rave about the quality and thickness of this cardigan. Trust us—you'll want to buy it in multiple colors.
USER REVIEW: "I’m OBSESSED with this cardigan!! I ordered a black one like this back in January and it’s my absolute favorite, so I decided to get another color for this coming fall and winter. [...] It’s so cozy and cute and everyone compliments it when I wear it."
Quince Baby Alpaca-Wool Cropped Cardigan
ALPACA WOOL
WHY IT MADE THE LIST: Made with baby alpaca wool, this cardigan is one of the softest you'll ever get your hands on. It's also long-lasting and resistant to pilling, and it rings up at 46% less than traditional retail.
ABOUT THE BRAND: Quince's high-quality basics are ethically and sustainably made and cost 50-80% less than leading luxury brands.
More Colors
A New Day Button-Front Cardigan
EXTENDED SIZING
WHY IT MADE THE LIST: This $25 cardigan has an almost-perfect five-star rating, comes in six colors, and comes in plus sizes.
STYLE WITH: Throw it over a floral dress and add ankle oots for a fall-ready look.
Free People Found My Friend Cardigan
TEXTURED
WHY PEOPLE LOVE IT: As with most Free People pieces, this cardigan stands out from the rest. It's made with cool, textured fabric, softly ribbed trim, and easy dropped shoulders that give anything you pair it with a relaxed vibe.
HELPFUL TIP: This one runs large, so we recommend sizing down for the best fit. Don't worry—you'll still get that effortless slouchy look.
Gap Boyfriend Shaker-Stitch Cotton Cardigan
BOYFRIEND
WHY IT MADE THE LIST: Can anyone do cardigans better than Gap? With its shaker-stitch detail, slightly longer length, and array of fall-ready color options, this one's bound to become a classic.
STYLE WITH: Wear it with denim shorts now and straight-leg jeans in the fall.
Madewell Shrunken Ribbed Cardigan Sweater
SHRUNKEN
WHO IT'S FOR: If you want a closer fit, look no further than this shrunken ribbed cardigan from Madewell. It looks just as good worn as a top as it does thrown over camis and tanks.
STYLE WITH: Pair it with a slip dress for a chic '90s vibe.
Everlane The Texture Cotton Cardigan
COTTON
WHY PEOPLE LOVE IT: Everlane's Textured Cotton Cardigan truly is the perfect wardrobe basic. Featuring relaxed shoulders, a slight crop, and bouncy, voluminous fabric, it's the kind of piece you can pair with anything.
STYLE WITH: Wear it with high-rise denim shorts for an easy summer-to-fall look.
More Colors
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