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.
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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
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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
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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
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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
![](https://media.theeverygirl.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/how-to-style-a-cardigan-4.png)
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
![](https://media.theeverygirl.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/how-to-style-a-cardigan-5.png)
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.