The Cozy Girl’s Guide to Styling Winter’s Most Versatile Layer: The Cardigan
If there’s one wardrobe essential that’s having a major moment right now, it’s the cardigan. Once considered a preppy or grandma-core piece, the cardigan has been completely reimagined, making it one of the most versatile layering pieces for winter 2025. Whether you’re wearing it solo, buttoned-up and tucked into jeans, draped over a slip dress, or layered under a heavy coat—there’s a cardigan for every style and budget. Let’s get into how to wear them, the different styles trending right now, and why you need at least one (or five) in your wardrobe.
Why We’re Loving Cardigans Right Now
✔️ Perfect for Winter Layering → Easy to slip under a jacket for extra warmth without adding bulk.
✔️ Works for Any Season → Light knits for spring, cozy oversized ones for winter—this piece is truly year-round.
✔️ So Many Styles → Cropped, oversized, fitted, chunky, belted—there’s a cardigan for every vibe.
✔️ Goes with Everything → Whether you’re wearing jeans, skirts, or even sweats, cardigans pull a look together effortlessly.
The Cardigan Styles You Need & How to Wear Them
The Fitted Cardigan
A fitted cardigan is sleek and polished, making it ideal for layering. Pair it with tailored trousers or tuck it into high-waisted jeans for a streamlined look that’s effortlessly chic.
An Oversized Cardigan
The oversized cardigan is the ultimate cozy piece. Perfect for layering over a fitted turtleneck or a basic tee, it adds warmth and a relaxed vibe to any outfit.
V-Neck Cardigan
The v-neck cardigan feels modern and sophisticated. Dress it up by layering it over a collared shirt or dress it down by wearing it solo as a top. It’s a versatile pick for both workwear and casual outings.
Ways to Wear a Cardigan
Cardigan as a Shirt: Button up your cardigan all the way and tuck it into high-rise pants or a skirt for a chic, Parisian-inspired look. Perfect for a polished yet cozy vibe.
Cardigan Half Buttoned with a Shirt: Layer a crisp white button-up shirt under your cardigan and button it halfway to show off the shirt collar. This adds a preppy, put-together element to your outfit.
Cardigan Open: Wear your cardigan open over a tank or fitted tee for a relaxed, laid-back look. Pair it with jeans and sneakers for an easy everyday outfit.
Cardigan with a Dress: Layer a cardigan over a midi dress for a transitional outfit that works in cooler weather. Cinch it at the waist with a belt for a more structured look.
Cardigan with Wide-Leg Pants: Pair an oversized or v-neck cardigan with wide-leg pants for a cozy-meets-sophisticated vibe. Opt for tonal shades to create a cohesive, elevated look.
How to Make Cardigans Work for You
Layer smart → If you’re styling a cardigan under a jacket, opt for a slim-fitting knit instead of chunky textures.
Mix textures → Try pairing a knit cardigan with leather, satin, or structured denim to create contrast.
Play with buttons → Leaving a few buttons undone at the bottom creates a more relaxed, cool-girl effect.
Choose the right fit → Cropped cardigans pair well with high-waisted bottoms, while oversized styles look best with fitted pieces underneath.
The cardigan trend is one we’re fully embracing in 2025, and honestly, it just makes sense. Comfortable, stylish, and easy to layer—what’s not to love? Whether you’re drawn to a classic chunky knit or a sleek cropped version, there’s a cardigan for every outfit and occasion.
Which style are you reaching for this season? Let me know in the comments!