"Tulips have taken over our camera rolls, iced matcha lattes are a thing again, and we’re online shopping instead of cleaning our closets. All of this can only mean one thing: Spring is here. While we may be tempted to add to our collection of midi skirts and canvas totes, there’s one item a spring capsule wardrobe isn’t complete without: a cardigan. It’s timeless, versatile, and one of Taylor Swift’s best singles, so yes, we’ll be wearing ours on repeat.
Seriously, what can’t a cardi do? It can be a layering piece or an outfit’s focal point; it can be chunky and chill or cropped and chic. Whether you’re putting together a Parisian, preppy, or laid-back look, the right knitwear will help you pull it off. We did our research (read: scrolled our FYPs) and rounded up the coolest ways to style your cardigans this spring
1. Buttoned just at the top
Instantly elevate any outfit by buttoning only the top button of your cardigan. Keep it casual and pair it with jeans and a tee, or skip the extra layer and show some skin for off-duty model vibes. We especially love a feminine crochet design during the spring months.
2. Button it all the way up
Another elegant and refined way to style a cropped cardigan is to wear it as a standalone top and button every button. A mini skirt, Mary Janes, and layered necklaces will complete the preppy look.
3. Draped over the shoulders
This two-second styling hack yields major it-girl results. The next time you’re running late and haven’t checked the weather app, tie a cardigan over your shoulders and thank us later. Whether you’re pairing it with a trench coat or top-to-bottom athleisure, a cardigan will make your entire ‘fit intentional.
4. Make it a dress
We hope it’s become obvious that you need one (or five) cardigans in your closet, but have you considered a cardigan dress? This might be the ultimate one-and-done transitional piece for spring. Create a high-low ensemble with sneakers and a cargo jacket for chic street style.
5. Worn open and oversized
The coastal grandmother isn’t back–she never left. Lucky for us, this TikTok trend is still one of the easiest to replicate for the spring season. To achieve the Diane Keaton-coded look, you’ll need an oversized cardigan, white T-shirt, and sandy-colored linen pants (Hamptons house not necessary).
6. Double down
When it comes to cardigans, two is better than one. Add interest to your outfit by buttoning up a lightweight, soft sweater as your base and adding a chunkier cardigan on top. Choose neutrals to keep it cohesive, or play with an unexpected color accent.
