When it comes to wearing a cardigan, there are many options for what to wear underneath. Here are some suggestions from various fashion blogs:
- T-shirts: You can wear almost any type of t-shirt under a cardigan, including crew neck or v-neck1. When in doubt, make sure the cardigan is darker than the t-shirt1.
- Button-up shirts: Button-up shirts are a classic option to wear under a cardigan. Oxford cotton button downs (OCBDs) look especially great with jeans and chinos1. It’s best to stick to button-up shirts with crew-neck T-shirts, as anything too open may appear awkward4.
- Henley shirts: Henley shirts work perfectly over a cardigan1.
- Polos: Polos are another option to wear under a cardigan1.
- Fitted T-shirts: Try wearing a long cardigan with fitted jeans and a fitted T-shirt. This creates a long, sleek line that is very sophisticated5.
Choosing the Right Shirt for a Cardigan
When it comes to wearing a cardigan, finding the perfect shirt to pair it with is essential. The right shirt can enhance your overall look and make a statement of its own. Whether you’re going for a casual or formal style, there are a few key factors to consider when selecting a shirt to wear under your cardigan. This comprehensive guide will help you navigate through the various options available and provide tips on how to style your cardigan with different types of shirts.
Selecting the Appropriate Fit
The fit of your shirt plays a crucial role in the overall aesthetic of your cardigan ensemble. It’s important to choose a shirt that complements your body shape and creates a balanced silhouette. For a slim-fit cardigan, opt for fitted shirts that follow your body’s natural lines. This can accentuate your physique and create a sleek and polished look. On the other hand, if you prefer a more relaxed and cozy fit, consider pairing an oversized cardigan with a relaxed-fit shirt. This combination adds a touch of comfort and gives off a laid-back vibe.
Considering the Fabric
The fabric of your shirt not only affects its comfort but also contributes to the overall style of your outfit. When selecting a shirt for your cardigan, consider the occasion and the desired level of formality. Cotton shirts are versatile and suitable for both casual and formal events. They are lightweight, breathable, and provide a crisp and clean look. For a more casual and relaxed vibe, consider shirts made from linen or chambray. These fabrics offer a more laid-back and effortless appeal.
Exploring Different Neckline Options
The neckline of your shirt can add depth and visual interest to your cardigan ensemble. While a crew neck shirt is a classic choice that works well with any cardigan, don’t shy away from experimenting with different necklines to create a unique and stylish look. V-neck shirts, for example, can give your outfit a sophisticated and modern touch. They also provide an opportunity to showcase a statement necklace or tie. If you’re feeling trendy and bold, try pairing your cardigan with a shirt featuring a mock neck or a turtleneck. These necklines add a chic and fashion-forward element to your overall ensemble.
Solid Color Shirts
Solid color shirts are a timeless and versatile option that pairs well with any cardigan. Whether you prefer a classic, neutral, or bold color, there is a solid shirt that can suit your style.
Opting for Classic White Shirts
A white shirt is a staple in every wardrobe, and it’s an excellent choice to wear under a cardigan. Its clean and minimalist appearance effortlessly complements any color or pattern of the cardigan. A white shirt paired with a neutral cardigan creates a timeless and elegant look, perfect for both casual and formal occasions.
Trying out Neutral Shades
Neutral-colored shirts, such as gray, beige, or navy, offer a refined and sophisticated appeal. These muted tones provide a subtle contrast to the cardigan while maintaining a cohesive and polished look. This combination is ideal for a business casual setting or a more relaxed social gathering.
Experimenting with Bold Colors
If you’re feeling adventurous and want to make a statement, don’t be afraid to try bold-colored shirts under your cardigan. Bright hues like red, electric blue, or even mustard yellow can instantly inject energy and creativity into your outfit. Pairing a bold-colored shirt with a solid-colored cardigan creates a vibrant and eye-catching look that exudes confidence and individuality.
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Patterned Shirts
Patterned shirts offer a great opportunity to showcase your creativity and personality. Whether you prefer stripes, plaids, or floral prints, there’s a patterned shirt that can elevate your cardigan look.
Striped Shirts for a Classic Look
Stripes never go out of style, and they are a fantastic choice to wear under a cardigan. Classic and timeless, a striped shirt adds a touch of elegance and sophistication to your ensemble. Pair it with a cardigan in a complementary solid color to create a cohesive and polished outfit.
Plaid Shirts for a Casual Vibe
Plaid shirts are perfect for creating a laid-back and casual look. The variety of colors and patterns available allows you to choose a plaid shirt that matches the color palette of your cardigan. This combination adds dimension and visual interest to your outfit, making it ideal for a relaxed weekend brunch or a casual day out.
Floral Shirts for a Playful Style
For a more playful and vibrant style, consider wearing a floral shirt under your cardigan. Floral prints add a touch of whimsy and personality to your ensemble, making it perfect for social gatherings or events. Pair a floral shirt with a solid-colored cardigan to keep the focus on the vibrant pattern and create a harmonious balance.
Collared Shirts
Collared shirts are a classic and timeless choice that can effortlessly elevate your cardigan look. Depending on the occasion and your personal style, there are two main types of collared shirts to consider: dress shirts and polo shirts.
Dress Shirts for a Sophisticated Look
Dress shirts are an excellent choice for formal or dressier occasions. They are typically made from high-quality fabrics like cotton or silk and feature a button-down collar. Dress shirts provide a polished and refined appearance that enhances the elegance of your cardigan ensemble. Opt for solid-colored dress shirts or subtle patterns to create a sophisticated and timeless look.
Polo Shirts for a Sporty Appearance
If you prefer a more casual and sporty vibe, consider pairing your cardigan with a polo shirt. Polo shirts are known for their comfortable fit, collared neckline, and a button-up placket. They offer a relaxed and effortless style that works well with a cardigan. Opt for polo shirts in solid colors or understated patterns, such as thin stripes or small logos, for a versatile and stylish combination.
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T-Shirts
T-shirts are a go-to option for a comfortable and laid-back look. They provide endless possibilities for styling your cardigan, whether you prefer a simple and versatile style or a bold statement.
Basic T-Shirts for a Simple and Versatile Style
Basic t-shirts in neutral colors, such as white, black, or gray, are ideal for creating a simple and versatile cardigan look. They offer a clean and minimalist aesthetic that allows the cardigan to take center stage. You can easily layer a basic t-shirt with any style or color of cardigan, making it a go-to choice for everyday wear or casual occasions.
Graphic Tees for a Statement Look
If you want to make a bold statement or showcase your interests or passions, graphic tees are the way to go. They come in a wide range of designs, from band logos to quirky illustrations, allowing you to express your creativity and personality. Pair a graphic tee with a solid-colored cardigan that complements the colors in the design to create a coordinated and eye-catching outfit.
Long-Sleeve T-Shirts for Extra Warmth
During colder months or chilly evenings, long-sleeve t-shirts provide an extra layer of warmth without compromising style. Opt for long-sleeve t-shirts in solid colors or subtle patterns to create a sleek and put-together look. Layer a cardigan over your long-sleeve t-shirt, and you’ll be both cozy and fashionable.
Layering Techniques
Layering is a key element in creating visually interesting and dynamic cardigan outfits. Here are a few layering techniques to consider when wearing a shirt under your cardigan.
Ensure the Shirt Length Doesn’t Extend Beyond the Cardigan
When layering a shirt with a cardigan, it’s important to ensure that the shirt length doesn’t extend beyond the cardigan’s hem. The shirt should be slightly shorter or the same length as the cardigan to create a clean and polished look. If the shirt is longer, it can disrupt the proportions and create an unbalanced appearance.
Rolling Up the Sleeves to Add Dimension
To add dimension and visual interest to your cardigan ensemble, consider rolling up the sleeves of your shirt. This technique exposes the cuffs of the shirt and adds a touch of casualness to the overall look. It also allows you to showcase any accessories, such as bracelets or watches, that you may want to include in your outfit.
Layering Multiple Shirts for a Unique Style
For a more unique and visually intriguing style, experiment with layering multiple shirts under your cardigan. This technique works particularly well with thinner and lightweight cardigans. Start with a solid-colored base shirt and layer a patterned or contrasting color shirt over it. This creates a layered effect that adds depth and texture to your outfit. Mix and match different shirt combinations to find a look that suits your personal style and showcases your creativity.
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Styling Tips
Now that we have explored different types of shirts to wear under a cardigan, let’s dive into some styling tips that can help you create a well-put-together ensemble.
Pairing Slim-Fit Cardigans with Fitted Shirts
If you prefer a tailored and sleek look, pair a slim-fit cardigan with a fitted shirt. The slim fit of the cardigan complements the fitted shirt, creating a streamlined silhouette that exudes sophistication. This combination works well for both casual and formal occasions, and it allows the cardigan to be the focal point of your outfit.
Combining Oversized Cardigans with Relaxed-Fit Shirts
For a more relaxed and comfortable style, pair an oversized cardigan with a relaxed-fit shirt. This combination creates a cozy and laid-back look that is perfect for casual outings or when you want to prioritize comfort without compromising style. You can easily tuck the relaxed-fit shirt into your pants or leave it untucked for a more effortless and casual vibe.
Adding Accessories to Elevate the Look
Accessories can elevate your cardigan ensemble and add the finishing touches to your outfit. Consider adding a statement necklace, a stylish watch, or a sleek belt to enhance your overall look. These accessories can complement the colors and patterns in your shirt or cardigan, adding a touch of visual interest and personality to your outfit.
Casual vs. Formal Occasions
The occasion plays a significant role in determining the type of shirt you should wear under your cardigan. Here are some shirt options for both casual and formal events.
Casual Shirt Options for a Laid-Back Look
For casual occasions, opt for shirts that have a relaxed fit and are made from comfortable fabrics like cotton or linen. T-shirts, both basic and graphic tees, are excellent choices for a casual and laid-back style. Combine them with a cardigan in a complementary color to create a cohesive and relaxed outfit.
Formal Shirt Choices for a Polished Appearance
For formal events or when you want to achieve a polished and sophisticated look, dress shirts are the way to go. Choose dress shirts in solid colors or subtle patterns, like pinstripes or checks, to create a refined and elegant ensemble. Opt for high-quality fabrics like cotton or silk to ensure a sleek and polished appearance.
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Considering Body Type
When selecting a shirt to wear under your cardigan, it’s important to consider your body shape. Certain shirt styles and patterns can enhance your physique and create a flattering silhouette.
Choosing Shirts that Complement Your Body Shape
For slim or lean body types, fitted shirts or slim-fit t-shirts can accentuate your physique and create a sleek and well-proportioned look. On the other hand, if you have a broader build or muscular physique, consider opting for relaxed-fit shirts or polo shirts. These styles provide a comfortable fit and allow your body shape to shine.
Tips for Tall Men
Tall men can experiment with different shirt lengths and styles. If you prefer a more casual look, consider wearing longline shirts that extend past the hips. These shirts add visual interest and create a balanced silhouette. On the other hand, if you want to create the illusion of a shorter torso, opt for shirts with horizontal stripes or patterns. These patterns draw the eye across the body and can help balance out your height.
Tips for Short Men
Short men can create the illusion of height by choosing shirts that are slightly shorter in length. Shirts that hit at or just below the waistline can help elongate the legs and make you appear taller. Additionally, opting for vertical stripes or patterns can create a visual lengthening effect.
Personal Style and Self-Expression
One of the joys of fashion is the ability to express your personality and individuality through your clothing choices. When it comes to selecting a shirt to wear under your cardigan, don’t hesitate to incorporate your personal style and hobbies into your outfit.
Experimenting with Different Shirt and Cardigan Combinations
Fashion is all about experimenting and finding what works best for you. Don’t be afraid to mix and match different shirt and cardigan combinations to create unique and personalized looks. Experiment with different colors, patterns, and textures to discover your signature style and make a statement through your outfit.
Incorporating Personal Preferences and Hobbies in Shirt Choices
Your shirt choice can also reflect your interests, hobbies, or personal preferences. If you’re a music lover, consider wearing a shirt with a band logo or a graphic that represents your favorite artist. If you have a passion for nature or animals, opt for a shirt featuring floral prints or animal motifs. Incorporating these personal touches can add a sense of authenticity and make your outfit truly one-of-a-kind.
In conclusion, choosing the right shirt to wear under a cardigan is essential for creating a well-put-together and stylish look. Whether you prefer solid colors, patterns, collared shirts, or t-shirts, there are numerous options to suit your personal style and the occasion. Experiment with different combinations, consider your body type, and don’t be afraid to incorporate your own unique flair. By following the tips and guidelines outlined in this comprehensive article, you’ll be able to create a cardigan ensemble that perfectly suits your individuality and sets you apart from the crowd.
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