A cropped cardigan is a versatile piece of clothing that can be styled in many ways. Here are some tips on how to wear a cropped cardigan:
- Buttoned up: The most stylish way to wear a cropped cardigan is to button it up. This works particularly well for shorter cardigans1.
- Unbuttoned: Longer cardigans look better opened up. Buttoning a longer cardigan can look bulky, so it’s best to leave it unbuttoned1.
- With a skirt: A cropped cardigan pairs well with a floral midi skirt or pencil skirt. This creates a classic and feminine look2.
- With jeans: Cropped cardigans go well with jeans, creating a casual yet put-together look. You can wear them with high-waisted jeans or a pair of skinny jeans5.
- With a dress: Cropped cardigans can also be worn with dresses. They add a layer of warmth and style to any dress, from mini dresses to maxi dresses5.
- With a column of color: Another great way to wear a cropped cardigan is unbuttoned with a column of color. A column of color refers to wearing a single color from head to toe. This creates a sleek and sophisticated look4.
- Upside down, open: For a unique look, you can wear a cropped cardigan upside down and open. This creates a shawl effect and adds a touch of elegance to any outfit3.
- Smart casual: You can also wear a cropped cardigan as part of a smart casual outfit. For example, you can pair a black cropped cardigan with black jeans for a chic and sophisticated look3.
Choosing the Right Cropped Cardigan
When it comes to styling a cropped cardigan, there are a few factors to consider to ensure you choose the right one for your body type and personal style. Here’s a guide to help you make the perfect choice.
Consider Your Body Type
Just like any other clothing item, it’s important to consider your body type when choosing a cropped cardigan. If you have a pear-shaped body, opt for a cardigan that hits at your natural waist to accentuate your curves. For those with an hourglass figure, a cropped cardigan that cinches at the waist will enhance your silhouette. If you have a rectangular body shape, choose a cardigan with added details like ruffles or prints to create the illusion of curves. And for those with an inverted triangle shape, a cropped cardigan with a V-neckline will balance out your upper body.
Pick the Right Size
When it comes to cropped cardigans, finding the right size is crucial. If you choose a cardigan that is too small, it will feel uncomfortable and restrict your movement. On the other hand, a cardigan that is too large may look baggy and unflattering. Be sure to refer to the size chart provided by the brand and take accurate body measurements to find your perfect fit. Remember, a well-fitting cardigan can instantly elevate your outfit.
Select the Right Color or Pattern
The color or pattern of your cropped cardigan can make a big difference in how it complements your overall look. Neutral colors like black, white, gray, and beige are versatile and can be paired with almost any other color. They also create a timeless and classic look. If you want to add a pop of color to your outfit, consider choosing a cardigan in a bold or vibrant shade like red or yellow. Additionally, cardigans with patterns such as stripes, polka dots, or floral prints can add visual interest to your ensemble.
Choose the Material
The material of your cropped cardigan not only affects how it feels against your skin but also how it drapes and holds its shape. Common materials used for cardigans include cotton, wool, cashmere, and acrylic. Cotton cardigans are lightweight and breathable, making them great for warmer weather. Wool and cashmere cardigans are warm and cozy, perfect for chilly days. Acrylic cardigans are affordable and easy to care for, but they may not be as durable as natural fibers. Consider your climate and personal preferences when choosing the material for your cropped cardigan.
Pairing with Tops
Now that you have chosen the perfect cropped cardigan, it’s time to explore different ways to pair it with tops to create stylish outfits.
Wear with a Basic Tee
For a casual and effortless look, pair your cropped cardigan with a basic tee. Opt for a tee in a complementary color or a graphic tee to add a fun element to your outfit. Tuck the tee into high-waisted jeans or a skirt and layer the cardigan over it. Complete the look with sneakers or ankle boots for a chic and laid-back vibe.
Match with a Button-Up Shirt
For a more polished and put-together look, layer your cropped cardigan over a button-up shirt. Choose a shirt in a classic color like white or light blue and leave a few buttons undone for a relaxed feel. Pair it with trousers or a pencil skirt for a sophisticated office outfit, or dress it down with jeans for a stylish weekend look.
Pair with a Camisole
If you’re heading out for a night on the town or a special occasion, try wearing your cropped cardigan over a camisole. Choose a camisole with lace details or a satin finish for an elegant touch. Pair it with tailored pants or a skirt and add some statement jewelry to complete the glamorous look. This combination is perfect for a date night or a cocktail party.
Try It Over a Turtleneck
To stay cozy and stylish during the colder months, layer your cropped cardigan over a turtleneck. Opt for a turtleneck in a neutral color like black or gray and pair it with jeans or a skirt. Add some ankle boots and a wide-brimmed hat for a stylish fall or winter outfit. This combination is not only chic but also practical for those chilly days.
This image is property of images.squarespace-cdn.com.
Bottoms to Wear
Now that you have mastered the art of pairing your cropped cardigan with tops, let’s move on to the bottoms that will complete your stylish outfits.
Pair with High-Waisted Jeans
For a trendy and casual look, style your cropped cardigan with high-waisted jeans. Choose jeans in a flattering cut and pair them with a fitted or tucked-in top. Layer your cardigan over the top and add some sneakers or ankle boots for a cool and effortless outfit. This combination is perfect for running errands or meeting friends for a casual lunch.
Wear with a Skirt
To create a feminine and chic outfit, pair your cropped cardigan with a skirt. Choose a skirt in a flattering length and silhouette, such as an A-line or pencil skirt. Tuck in a blouse or a fitted top and layer your cardigan over it. Complete the look with heels or flats and some delicate jewelry. This combination is versatile and can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion.
Try It with Trousers
For a polished and professional look, style your cropped cardigan with trousers. Opt for tailored trousers in a classic color like black, gray, or navy. Pair them with a button-up shirt or a blouse and layer your cardigan over it. Add some loafers or pumps and a structured bag to complete the sophisticated ensemble. This combination is perfect for the office or any formal setting.
Match with Shorts
When the weather heats up, you can still wear your cropped cardigan by pairing it with shorts. Choose shorts in a flattering length and style, such as high-waisted or tailored shorts. Pair them with a fitted tank top or a loose blouse and layer your cardigan over it. Complete the look with sandals or sneakers and some sunglasses for a stylish and comfortable summer outfit.
Layering Options
One of the greatest advantages of a cropped cardigan is its versatility for layering. Here are some creative ways to incorporate your cardigan into different layered looks.
Layer Over a Dress
To add a touch of warmth and style to your favorite dress, layer your cropped cardigan over it. Choose a dress with a shorter hemline to make the most of the cardigan’s cropped length. This combination is perfect for transitioning from spring to summer or for cooler summer evenings. Add some sandals or heels and some minimal accessories to complete the look.
Combine with a Jumpsuit
For a trendy and fashion-forward look, layer your cropped cardigan over a jumpsuit. Choose a jumpsuit in a flattering cut and pair it with a fitted or sleeveless cardigan. This combination is perfect for a night out or a special event. Complete the look with heels or ankle boots and some statement jewelry for an effortlessly chic ensemble.
Wear Under a Blazer
For a more formal and polished look, layer your cropped cardigan under a blazer. Choose a blazer in a classic color like black, navy, or gray and pair it with tailored pants or a skirt. Wear your cardigan as a base layer and leave the buttons open for a glimpse of color or pattern. This combination is perfect for a business meeting or a job interview. Add some pumps or loafers and a structured bag to complete the professional ensemble.
Try It with a Coat
When the temperature drops, layer your cropped cardigan under a coat for maximum warmth and style. Choose a coat in a complementary color and pair it with your cardigan and a thin sweater or blouse. Opt for a longer cardigan that extends beyond the coat for added interest. This combination is perfect for winter weather or when you need a little extra layering. Add some boots and a cozy scarf to complete the cozy and chic look.
This image is property of www.merricksart.com.
Accessories to Accentuate
To elevate your cropped cardigan outfits even further, don’t forget to accessorize. Here are some accessory ideas to add a finishing touch to your look.
Add a Belt
To define your waist and add visual interest to your outfit, add a belt to your cropped cardigan. Choose a belt in a contrasting color or with a statement buckle for a bold look. Cinch your cardigan at the waist and let it flow over the belt for a flattering and stylish ensemble. This accessory is especially useful for those with an hourglass or pear-shaped body type.
Wear Statement Jewelry
To add a touch of glamour and personality to your outfit, wear some statement jewelry with your cropped cardigan. Opt for earrings, necklaces, or bracelets in bold designs or vibrant colors. Let your jewelry be the focal point of your ensemble and keep the rest of your outfit simple and understated. This accessory is perfect for both casual and dressy occasions.
Try a Hat or Headband
To add a touch of style and playfulness to your look, try wearing a hat or headband with your cropped cardigan. Choose a hat or headband in a complementary color or pattern and make it the focal point of your ensemble. This accessory not only adds visual interest but also keeps your head warm on cooler days.
Pair with a Scarf
To add texture and warmth to your outfit, pair your cropped cardigan with a scarf. Choose a scarf in a complementary color or pattern and drape it around your neck or shoulders. This accessory not only adds a cozy touch but also creates a stylish and put-together look. Opt for a lighter scarf during transitional seasons and a thicker, knitted scarf during colder months.
Casual and Everyday Looks
Now that you have a variety of styling options for your cropped cardigan, let’s explore some casual and everyday looks that you can rock with confidence.
Style for a Day at the Mall
For a comfortable and fashionable outfit for a day at the mall, pair your cropped cardigan with high-waisted jeans and a basic tee. Choose jeans in a medium wash and a tee in a neutral color. Layer your cardigan over the tee and add some sneakers or ankle boots for a casual and trendy look. Carry a crossbody bag and accessorize with a statement necklace or a stack of bracelets for a touch of style.
Create a Casual Office Outfit
If you have a casual office dress code, a cropped cardigan can be a great addition to your work wardrobe. Pair your cardigan with tailored trousers and a button-up shirt. Choose trousers in a classic color like black or navy and a shirt in a light or bold color. Layer your cardigan over the shirt and add some loafers or pumps for a polished and professional look. Complete the outfit with a structured bag and minimal accessories for a clean and sophisticated ensemble.
Perfect for Running Errands
When you’re running errands and need to be comfortable yet stylish, a cropped cardigan is the perfect choice. Pair it with high-waisted leggings or joggers and a fitted tank top. Layer your cardigan over the top and add some sneakers or slip-on shoes for a casual and athleisure-inspired look. Carry a tote bag or a backpack and accessorize with some sunglasses for a practical and stylish outfit.
Wear for a Coffee Date
For a cute and casual outfit for a coffee date, pair your cropped cardigan with a skirt and a camisole. Choose a skirt in a flattering length and a camisole in a soft or silky fabric. Layer your cardigan over the camisole and add some ankle boots or sandals for a feminine and romantic look. Carry a small shoulder bag or a clutch and accessorize with some delicate jewelry for a sweet and stylish ensemble.
This image is property of images.squarespace-cdn.com.
Dressy and Formal Looks
A cropped cardigan is not just limited to casual or everyday outfits. It can also be dressed up for more formal and dressy occasions. Here are some ideas to take your cropped cardigan from day to night.
Elevate Your Work Attire
To elevate your work attire with a cropped cardigan, pair it with a tailored pencil skirt and a button-up shirt. Choose a skirt and a shirt in classic colors like black and white for a polished and professional look. Layer your cardigan over the shirt and add some pumps or heels to complete the ensemble. Carry a structured bag and accessorize with minimal jewelry for a sophisticated and stylish office outfit.
Wear for a Dinner Party
For a dressier look, try wearing your cropped cardigan over a cocktail dress for a dinner party or a special event. Choose a dress in a flattering silhouette and a cardigan in a complementary color. Layer the cardigan over the dress and add some heels or dressy sandals. Carry a clutch and accessorize with some statement earrings or a necklace for an elegant and feminine ensemble.
Style for a Night Out
When you’re heading out for a night on the town, pair your cropped cardigan with a fitted top and leather pants. Choose a top in a bold or vibrant color and leather pants in black or a dark shade. Layer your cardigan over the top and add some statement heels or ankle boots. Carry a crossbody bag or a wristlet and add some edgy accessories like a chunky necklace or a studded cuff bracelet. This combination is perfect for a bar hopping or a night of dancing.
Pair with a Cocktail Dress
For a twist on a classic cocktail dress, layer your cropped cardigan over it. Choose a dress in a timeless silhouette or a trendy design and a cardigan in a complementary color. Layer the cardigan over the dress and let it enhance the details of the dress, such as a sweetheart neckline or a fitted waist. Add some heels or pumps and a clutch to complete the sophisticated and chic look. This combination is perfect for a wedding or a formal event.
Seasonal Styling
A cropped cardigan can be worn throughout the year, making it a versatile and essential piece in your wardrobe. Here are some ideas to style your cardigan for different seasons.
Transition to Spring
As the weather starts to warm up, pair your cropped cardigan with a flowy dress and ankle boots. Choose a dress in a floral or pastel print for a fresh and spring-inspired look. Layer your cardigan over the dress and add some ankle boots or flats. Carry a straw tote bag and accessorize with a straw hat or some delicate jewelry for a feminine and breezy ensemble.
Perfect for Summer Evenings
During summer evenings when the temperature drops, pair your cropped cardigan with shorts and a tank top. Choose shorts in a fun pattern or a bold color and a tank top in a lightweight fabric. Layer your cardigan over the top and add some sandals or wedges for a comfortable and stylish look. Carry a beach bag or a bucket bag and accessorize with some sunglasses for a beachy and relaxed ensemble.
Layer for Fall Weather
When the leaves start to change colors and the air gets crisp, layer your cropped cardigan over a plaid shirt and jeans. Choose a plaid shirt in warm tones like burgundy or mustard and pair it with jeans in a medium wash. Layer your cardigan over the shirt and add some ankle boots or loafers. Carry a structured tote bag or a backpack and accessorize with a cozy scarf for a cozy and autumn-inspired look.
Winter Outfit Ideas
During the cold winter months, layer your cropped cardigan over a turtleneck sweater and tailored pants. Choose a turtleneck sweater in a neutral color and pair it with trousers in a classic cut. Layer your cardigan over the sweater and add some knee-high boots or booties. Carry a structured coat and accessorize with some gloves and a beanie for a warm and stylish ensemble.
This image is property of www.poorlittleitgirl.com.
Styling Tips for Different Ages
No matter your age, a cropped cardigan can be styled to suit your personal preferences and fashion sense. Here are some styling tips for different age groups to help you look and feel your best.
Fashion Tips for Teens
Teens can have fun with their cropped cardigan by pairing it with high-waisted jeans or skirts and graphic tees. Choose jeans or skirts in trendy cuts and washes, and opt for graphic tees with bold prints or slogans. Layer the cardigan over the tee and add some sneakers or ankle boots. Accessorize with some statement jewelry or a backpack for a cool and youthful look.
Styling Ideas for 20s to 30s
In your 20s to 30s, you can experiment with different styles and incorporate your cropped cardigan into a variety of outfits. Pair it with tailored trousers and button-up shirts for a professional look, or wear it over a dress for a more feminine and romantic ensemble. Don’t be afraid to play with colors and patterns to express your personal style. Accessorize with trendy accessories like statement belts or statement earrings for a fashion-forward look.
Fashion Inspiration for 40s to 50s
In your 40s to 50s, you can opt for a more sophisticated and polished look with your cropped cardigan. Pair it with skirts or trousers in classic cuts and colors. Choose tops in high-quality fabrics and layer the cardigan over them for added warmth and style. Accessorize with timeless and elegant pieces like pearl earrings or a structured bag. This age group can also experiment with monochromatic looks to create a sleek and streamlined ensemble.
Tips for Rocking a Cropped Cardigan in Your 60s+
In your 60s and beyond, a cropped cardigan can still be stylish and elegant. Choose cardigans in classic colors and pair them with tailored pants or skirts. Opt for tops in flattering cuts and layer the cardigan over them to add warmth and style. Stick to comfortable fabrics like cotton or cashmere for maximum comfort. Accessorize with delicate jewelry or scarves to add a touch of sophistication to your outfits.
Conclusion
As you can see, a cropped cardigan is a versatile and essential piece in any wardrobe. From casual to dressy, from spring to winter, it can be styled in numerous ways to suit different occasions and personal styles. By considering factors such as body type, size, color or pattern, and material, you can choose the right cardigan that flatters your figure and complements your outfits. Whether you’re pairing it with tops, bottoms, or layering it over dresses or jumpsuits, a cropped cardigan is a versatile and stylish addition to any outfit. And don’t forget to accessorize to add a finishing touch to your looks. So go ahead, experiment, and have fun with your cropped cardigan outfits!
This image is property of www.poorlittleitgirl.com.