The word "cardigan" sounds about as sexy as a soggy sandwich, but depending on the ebb and flow of fashion's mood, this knitted cover-up can be one of the best pieces to own. We're fairly certain Alexa Chung set the motion of the wheels way back in 2018 when she popped a pink Ganni cardigan on top of some vinyl trousers to soften their sass factor. Since then, the button-down knit has been gaining momentum. It's rapidly become an integral part of the (unofficial) Who What What UK office uniform, and it seems to be a go-to layering staple for the style set, too.
The catwalks have ensured it has stayed relevant well into 2019, too, with the likes of Isabel Marant, Gucci and Chloé all serving up their own interpretations on the runway. So how to wear a cardigan now? Keep scrolling to see…
It's one of the oldest tricks in the styling book: Wear one shade top-to-toe and it will never fail to look sleek. The easiest way to do so? By wearing a blue cardigan with your favourite pair of classic blue jeans.
You'll instinctively want to wear your cardigans with trousers and skirts but they also look great worn over midi dresses, as evidenced by Ada.
Sometimes, less is most certainly more. Take a leaf out of Maria's book and tuck your cardigan into a pair of chic, high-waisted trousers. Keep your accessories refined and sweep your hair into an effortless updo for instant chic appeal.
It might not instantly come to mind when it comes to going-out attire, but the cardigan can look incredibly glamorous. Make like Monikh and wear a longline style with a slip dress and finish with velvet shoes, a glittery bag or both!
Conversely, the cardigan also looks incredibly cool when it's piled up with contrasting colours, as well as when its matched with a specific shade. Ground your look with a tan borg coat and canvas trainers to ensure it stays on the right side of standing out.
This post was originally published at an earlier time and has since been updated.
Next, the one trouser trend I revisit every December…