The ‘Cardigancore’ Trend Is Going Viral — Here’s How To Get the Look

One thing you can expect social media to do is create a trend. It doesn’t matter if it was already a thing. It doesn’t even matter if it’s more of a seasonal necessity than a brand-new item. That’s pretty much what happened with “cardigancore,” but we’re not mad at it. The humble cardigan is the latest wardrobe staple to enjoy a major renaissance.

Regardless of whether you’re concerned about trends, a cardigan will forever be something you should have at least one of. Read on for some fresh new ways to style the knit staple, then go forth and slay the cardigancore trend.

What Is ‘Cardigancore’? 

Although cardigans never really went out of style, they’ve felt pretty simple and uninspired in the past few years. Now all of a sudden, they’re everywhere again, worn buttoned to the top, draped around shoulders, or open over tees and tanks. They’re colorblocked, adorned with bows, and available in different weights to wear year round. It’s a trend all ages are getting into. To wit, Reese Witherspoon, Blake Lively, Scarlett Johannson, and Taylor Swift all have been getting in on the cardi action. 

How Do You Wear the ‘Cardigancore’ Trend?

In the ’90s, you might have worn a cardigan as a top. In the 2010s, you might have jumped on the boho cardigan trend and worn a long one open and loose. In 2024, things are getting even more creative. We love how creator Erika Dwyer wears seven simple cardigans in totally different ways in her styling video. Among the most popular? Fully closed with a white tank or tee popping out of the top, or open with just the top button done. 

There are numerous new ways to style the cardigans you already have at home, but if you’re in the market for a new one, shop some of our favorites, below.

Shop the trend:

1. & Other Stories Knitted Cardigan

We love the dusty pink hue of this alpaca and wool-blend cardigan from & Other Stories. It’s a good choice for a light academia-inspired outfit, and has a regular fit that’s not too loose or figure-hugging. Best of all, you can throw it in the washing machine — just make sure you use cold water and the gentle cycle. 

2. Quince 100% Organic Cotton Oversized Cable Cardigan

You don’t have to live near the docks to get into a fisherman cardigan like this one. The navy blue shade and cable-knit pattern give nautical vibes that are perfect for summer. Since it has an oversized fit, pair it with something that sits a little closer to your body, or a dress or skirt with a shorter hemline, for balance.

3. Farm Rio Colorful Stripes Knit Cardigan  

Some of us are naturally a bit extra, and that’s the vibe this Farm Rio sweater captures. Its rainbow-stripe knit and fringe detail are sure to make you stand out. Don’t be intimidated by the colors, either — you can definitely wear this to spice up an all black or neutral outfit. Our preferred route? Choosing a color or two in the sweater as a jumping-off point, then building the look from there.

4. Abercrombie & Fitch Glossy Slim Cardigan

The Glossy Slim Cardigan from Abercrombie & Fitch reminds us of those figure-hugging sweaters we used to wear back in the aughts. But this isn’t the cardigan you remember — this one’s glossy finish adds a fresh twist to the classic. The unique sleeves slightly cover your hands but won’t suffocate them, thanks to the slits the brand added at the wrists. Grab this one in any of its three colorways.

5. Staud Shoko Sweater

Staud’s Shoko sweater is popular for a reason. It’s super comfortable, skims the body in a flattering way, and makes a bold statement with two colors. We love it as a dress, but you can also style it with jeans or pants — just unbutton the sweater to right above where your belt would go and boom, you’ve got an extra-long cardi. Boots, sandals, flats — this sweater goes with absolutely everything in your wardrobe. It’s easy to style and will always have you looking pulled together.

6. J.Crew Cardigan Sweater in Tencel

Everyone needs a neutral-hued cardigan with a classic cut that goes with absolutely everything. J.Crew’s super-soft signature cardigan has a slightly cropped fit that hits just above your waist so it goes easily with jeans and sneakers to run errands, or tied over your shoulders with a sleeveless dress.

7. Boden Embroidered T-Shirt Cardigan

This short-sleeve T-shirt cardigan from Boden is bright, fun, and statement-making. It’s embroidered with pineapples on the front and back and is made from lightweight cotton so you can wear it in warmer temperatures. Bonus: It’s machine-washable, so you’ll save on that dry-cleaning bill.

8. Maeve The Greta Polo Cardigan Sweater

Smart but still casual — that’s the best way we can sum up the look of this cardigan. It has all the elements of your favorite staples, including stripes, a collar, and brass buttons, and it works just as well for the office as for a quick drink with friends. 

9. Everlane The Organic Cotton Relaxed Cardigan

Relaxed is the vibe of this cardigan from Everlane, which comes in six colorways. Its shoulder seams are slightly dropped, giving it a laid-back look for easy days.

10. Honest Basics Chunky Cardigan

Honest Basics makes affordable pieces as sustainably as possible, so if being nice to the environment is your thing, this cardigan might be for you. It’s made from 100% cotton and is one of those simple pieces that pairs nicely with a lot of things you already have in your wardrobe — even the dressier items.

11. NA-KD Long Knitted Cardigan

If your personal style ventures more into that boho territory, try this extra-long cardigan from NA-KD. It has a ribbed knit and a loose fit that gives it a relaxed, cozy look. Wear it to work with some trousers and slingbacks or at home with  some fluffy slippers and sweats.