It’s true—I have a special weakness for cardigans. Even as the weather starts to warm up, there’s a whole grouping of “summer cardigans” that people are gravitating towards. (Think crochet, pointelle knits, and gauzy fabrics.) A cardigan can act as a statement piece, but with the right one, it is overall just a pretty great wardrobe staple. After all, when you want to be comfortable, a cardigan has more of that “I still tried” factor than a basic sweater or tee.
Now, there’s an abundance of cardigans on the internet, but only some are worth spending your money on. While we’ve passed the days of heavy knits, I looked towards our favorite retailers for the best cardigans available to shop right now and even tried on a few along the way. Whether you’re looking to exude Parisian energy or want an extra layer for the beach, there’s an option below for you to choose from. Keep scrolling to peruse and shop.
Photo:
@thatgirlyusra
Mango
Striped Cardigan With Buttons
$46
Even before trying this on, I already thought of a ton of outfit ideas I could wear with this cardigan. It is a cardigan, but it’s made of material that feels comparable to a thicker, high quality t-shirt, making it perfect for spring-to-summer transitional weather.
J.Crew
Giselle Sweater-Blazer
$158
$110
Anything by J.Crew just exudes rich energy.
H&M
Fine-Knit Cardigan
$18
This shade of blue is very wearable.
Mango
Fine-Knit Short Cardigan
$60
For the crop top lovers.
Zara
Long Knit Jacket
$46
And on the other end of the spectrum, this almost floor-length cardigan is both cozy and classy.
J.Crew
Emilie Patch-Pocket Sweater Lady Jacket
$138
You’ll be surprised at how much you’ll end up wearing this striking option.
H&M
Rib-Knit Cardigan
$35
Simplicity at it’s finest.
Good American
Cozy Rib Crop Cardigan
$129
Chilly summer nights call for a cardigan like this one.
Zara
Striped Knit Cardigan
$50
Doesn’t this look designer?
J.Crew
Featherweight Cashmere Cropped Cardigan Sweater
$138
$100
You’ll wear this for years to come.
Rag & Bone
Dorit Rib Merino Wool Blend Top
$295
Sheer yet so chic.
Mango
Metallic Stripe Frayed Hem Cardigan
$80
The frayed detail is what sold me.
J.Crew
Juliette Collarless Sweater-Blazer
$158
If you’re always cold in the office like I am, this is the kind of cardigan you’ll want to keep at your desk.
Reformation
Milo Cotton Open Knit Cardigan
$198
Wear it as a top or a beach cover-up.
BP
Rib Crop Cardigan
$45
Imagine this with white linen pants.
Zara
Semi-Sheer Knit Jacket
$40
The right way to wear the sheer trend.
Only Hearts
Tulle Cardigan
$87
And if you’d rather a long-sleeve version, I’ve got an option for you as well.
J.Crew
Relaxed Cotton-Linen Blend Cardigan Sweater
$118
I’ll be styling my cardigan with a vest from now on.
Zara
Long Pointelle Knit Cardigan
$60
These kinds of cardigans were made for the summertime.
Leset
Lauren Crop Cardigan Ii
$160
Perfect for lounging.
Reformation
Joanne Cotton Cardigan
$128
Zara
Pointelle Knit Jacket
$46
So pretty.
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