My fall capsule wardrobe is filled with a collection of cozy pieces, but there’s one item in particular that truly defines my assortment: cardigans. Typically designed with a button or zipper closure, this sweater style is ideal for layering, which makes it a perfect cold-weather pick. For that very reason, I keep coming back to the same cardigan outfits, which have helped me master the art of wearing this humble staple for pretty much any autumn occasion.
Going into the office? Team a plain cardigan with tailored trousers, kitten heels, and a sturdy laptop bag. Casual weekend outings call for a more laid-back approach—I’ll usually wear my cardigan with wide-leg jeans, sneakers, and a billowing puffer jacket.
Ahead, discover the elevated cardigan outfits that I’ll be copying this season, gathered from savvy street stylers. You’ll want to add these looks to your fall mood board, too.
Cherry Red Cardigan + White Turtleneck
Brighten up your fall wardrobe with an eye-catching cardigan.
Although I’m a minimalist who loves nothing more than neutral clothing, there’s something about this cherry red cardigan that’s simply irresistible. I appreciate how the base of the outfit is kept fairly simple, while the vibrant knit does all the heavy lifting.
Grey Cardigan + Khaki Trench Coat
Sometimes, less is more.
When temperatures dip below 60 degrees, layer a polished trench coat that will keep you snug over your cardigan. If you’d like to spice things up a bit, take notes from the street styler pictured above and ground your outfit in leopard-print ballet flats.
Fitted Cardigan + Newsboy Cap
A flat cap is an easy styling hack that will elevate any relaxed look.
It appears as though It girls are saying “au revoir” to berets in favor of newsboy caps. While initially I wasn’t on board, this outfit has convinced me to give the vintage hat trend a try. It’s simple yet oh-so chic.
Cropped Cardigan + Button-Down
A true masterclass in preppy dressing.
Time to take notes. Instead of a lengthy cardigan, opt for a cropped construction that puts a grown-up twist on a school girl outfit. Then, finish things off with flats teamed with crew socks.
Cardigan + Leather Jacket
Nothing says “fall” quite like a glossy leather jacket.
I've said it once and I'll say it again: ’80s-inspired leather bomber jackets are back. Give the retro style a modern feel with a slim cardigan, black jeans, and sporty sneakers.
Cardigan + Silky Slip
Did someone say demure?
Recreate this ladylike Miu Miu look with a sultry tank top, a knit cardigan, and a matching midi skirt. To embellish your outfit, reach for a lustrous handbag, a faux fur shawl, and bow-adorned heels styled over knee-high tights.
Cardigan + Trousers + Coat
Introducing, your new favorite fall work outfit.
Why not simplify things for yourself when you're getting ready to head into the office with this straightforward uniform? Simply tuck a cardigan into a pair of pants, cover your shoulders with a buttoned coat, and throw some suede boat shoes into the mix.
Cardigan + Wide-Leg Pants
For those moments when you’re not in the mood to overthink it, consider this uncomplicated getup.
Whether you’re grabbing lunch with friends or running errands around town, this nonchalant pairing will get the job done. Prepare to put it in heavy rotation.
Cardigan Sandwich
Here’s how to style your cardigan in a way that embodies a “low effort, high reward” appeal.
What I love most about fall is dressing in endless layers. To make my cardigan outfits more dynamic, I’ll sandwich a buttoned sweater between a collared blouse and a leather trench.
Cardigan-as-Scarf
Ditch your scarf for a cardigan.
If you haven’t yet heard, It girls are styling sweaters over outerwear. Yes, it seems unconventional, but you can’t deny the fact that this combination is effortlessly cool. Tie your cardigan around your shoulders or neck like a scarf over your go-to fall jacket.