3 types of cardigan styles and how to wear them

Brrr, it’s cold out there! As we head into the winter months, layering clothing is one of the best ways to stay warm while running errands, taking care of work around the house or whatever else you may be doing. This means one great thing: It’s cardigan season.

Cardigans are one of the best basic clothing items to include in your wardrobe because they’re practical, timeless and, above all, versatile. They transition easily from fall to winter to early spring, and they’re one of the most comfortable pieces of clothing that can be worn at the office, at home or out with friends. When choosing the right cardigan as a plus-sized lady, you should consider a few different things, like color, pattern and cut. Cardigans come in three main cuts, so here’s a guide to each style and how you can wear it:

Fitted and short

This type of cardigan should hit right at the hip bones and hug closely to your body when fully buttoned. Remember to avoid cardigans that are too tight, though, as they can enhance those lumps and bumps that a cardigan with the right fit will actually hide. Though sometimes you may feel more comfortable in baggy sweaters, fitted cardigans are very flattering, as they provide a little bit of structure while still being warm and comfy. Wear this cardigan unbuttoned over shorter blouses and dresses – even if the clothes underneath are a little loose-fitting, the cardigan will add some definition to your body. Because the cardigan is fitted, you can play with more loose-fitting or wider styles of pants too. Short cardigans look great with wide-leg or flare trousers and jeans.

Fitted and long

Fitted and long cardigans still gently hug your body’s curves, but they extend past the hips to your thighs or even further. Like shorter fitted cardigans, these sweaters are very versatile, and can be worn with a number of different wardrobe options. Because they add volume to the lower body, try sticking to pants with a slimmer silhouette – long cardigans look great with slim pants tucked into boots. If you’re wearing the sweater with pants that flare, consider a pair of pants that’s fitted at the top and begins to widen at the knees. Fitted, long cardigans also look great over dresses. Pair a fit-and-flare or wrap dress with a long cardigan, and throw on a pair of tights to keep your legs warm. Add a belt to your ensemble to give your long cardigan some extra structure and add definition to your waist.

Loose and flowing

This style of sweater is not fitted to the body and generally extends below the hips. Some loose cardigans don’t have buttons at all and are meant to be worn open (think of the cardigans with extra fabric near the front that flows loosely around the body). Because this style of sweater has no structure whatsoever, it can add some bulk when worn with loose-fitting and flowing blouses, pants and dresses. If you want to wear a flowy cardigan, stick to simple and fitted tops, like basic T-shirts, and slim pants or leggings. For an even thinner look, try going for a monochromatic color scheme by wearing dark or black shirts and pants with your sweater.

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