Why The Cardigan Is Your Fall-Closet Savior
From wardrobe essentials in neutral hues to more statement styles, a cardigan is the ultimate trans-seasonal staple, says COLLEEN ROSS
Katie Holmes’s viral Khaite cardigan-and-bra moment may have been six years ago, but its impact on how we view this humble knit endures. The actor’s low-key yet striking look transformed the typically preppy and conservative piece into something far cooler, chicer and sexier. There’s always been an inherent sensuality to a cardigan – its silhouette can be subtly unbuttoned to reveal the décolletage or midriff – but the actor’s nonchalant, slightly-falling-off-one-shoulder styling trick took things up a notch. Fast-forward to 2025 and cardigans are a firmly established fashion-week essential. And it’s easy to see why: combining the warmth of a sweater with the versatility of a jacket, they are a true trans-seasonal hero.
Epitomizing capsule-wardrobe perfection is The Row’s oversized cashmere ‘Lonn’ cardigan in a soft gray shade. With this as your starting point, you’re guaranteed enviable elegance with every look. Slip yours on over a fine-knit turtleneck and tailored pants, paired with penny loafers or sneakers, depending on your plans. Then, as the mercury drops, layer on a leather jacket or trench. For a more vibrant option, reach for Altuzarra’s poppy-red ‘Mariette’ cardigan, spun from organic cotton with an open-knit weave. The eye-catching shade is sure to boost your mood as well as your style credentials (bold pops of color are trending this season).
A cardigan might not be the first thing that springs to mind when you think of party dressing, but Donde Esteban’s ‘Magdalena’ style makes a strong case for why it should. Exclusive to NET-A-PORTER, it has a rippled texture that replicates a painting by Valentino Cortázar (father of the brand’s creative director) and comes in a close-fitting cropped shape that works well with high-rise pants. Elsewhere, Arch4’s ‘Arlo’ argyle knit is the perfect way to embrace the season’s equestrian mood – take notes from tastemakers by pushing up the sleeves and styling with leather gloves.
Novelty knits are big news right now, and Valentino Garavani’s cardigan – knitted with tiny red hearts – might just be the sweetest way to embrace the trend. Pair it with straight-leg jeans and Mary Janes for low-key lunches with friends. Alternatively, slip Joseph’s exquisitely soft burgundy cashmere cardigan over workweek tailoring or a leather skirt, and finish the look with a trench coat and a sleek shoulder bag.
Finally, for the most elegant day-to-night option, look to Dôen’s delicate pointelle-knit ‘Therese’ style. Inspired by designs from the 1930s, it’s patterned with nautical stripes and looks effortlessly chic paired with both denim and tailoring. Similarly, Khaite’s cropped ‘Finn’ cardigan, crafted from soft merino wool, offers true after-dark appeal. Just add a gold chain and finish with a red lip.
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