What to Wear Under a Cardigan (for Classic Style)

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Cardigans are a major trend this year (and have been for a while now), but we’re not talking about your grandma’s cropped cardigan worn open with a sundress – we’re talking about oversized chunky knits or a lightweight cotton cardigans worn as tops, buttoned most of the way up. Yes, you’ll still want to wear something underneath them for comfort, but in this post I’m going to explain how to style cardigans so that they’re in-style and on trend. If you’re looking for tips on how men should style them, I recommend checking out this post from Opumo.

What to Wear Under a Cardigan (for Classic Style)

Nothing

Like I said, this isn’t your grandmother’s cardigan – we’re wearing cardigans buttoned up as chic tops, and the best way to style them is without anything underneath. This works particularly well with button-down styles that can be fastened for coverage. Wearing a cardigan on its own creates a chic, minimalist look that pairs well with high-waisted jeans, tailored pants, or a sleek skirt. Adding delicate jewelry or a structured blazer can elevate this outfit for a sophisticated feel.

This Edie Fair Isle Cardigan from Boden (colorway is Vintage Mauve) is my favorite option for spring. The mauvy pink color is perfect this time of year when it’s still the dead of winter but we’re all aching for spring. I’ll also wear it into the early spring with white jeans. I’ve styled it below with Madewell Driftwood Brown jeans (see who to style brown pants in this post), and Greyson Penny Loafers from Madewell.

Fitted Crew Neck T-shirt

Another on-trend option is to wear a high neck crew t-shirt under a cardigan so that you can just see the top of the collar peaking out of the cardigan, or wear the cardigan open. Opt for a fitted style to keep your layers smooth and avoid excess fabric bunching up under your sweater. A white tee under a long cardigan paired with jeans creates a timeless, effortless outfit. If you prefer a more structured look, tuck the tee into tailored pants and add a belt for a polished touch. My favorite fitted crewneck tee is this ribbed long sleeve option from Amazon.

One other fun way to style a cardigan with a tee is to button just the top few buttons and leave the rest open. This will give the look a casual “effortless” feel. And you’ll be able to see your belt if you’re wearing one.

This Holly Collared Knitted Jacket cardigan is by Boden, and I absolutely love it. I wear it closed all the way like I styled the other Boden cardigan above, but I also like it open. I am wearing it below with Madewell Cropped Kick Flare Jeans and heeled booties from Sam Edelman. My thin belt is from Amazon.

Tanks and Camisoles

Tanks and camisoles are fool-proof options for laying underneath a cardigan. You can leave the cardigan open, button just the top few buttons, or fasten the cardigan all the way up. The cami or tank works perfectly for extra warmth, a layer to protect your skin from any itchiness (if your cardigan is wool!), or a great option to wear on its own if your cardigan gets too warm. Whether you opt for a fitted ribbed tank or a looser cotton style, this combination creates a balanced look without adding unnecessary bulk. My favorite tank/camisole is actually this Square Neck Tank Top from Amazon. It’s thick and fitted in the best way – it holds you in.

Tanks work particularly well with oversized cardigans, allowing the silhouette of the knit to shine while keeping the base layer sleek and streamlined. Pair this combo with high-waisted jeans or even a slip skirt for an easy, classic outfit.

V-neck Shirt

A V-neck tee is a great option if you’re wearing a long open cardigan. I always struggle to find the right shirt to wear with layers like this chunky long cardigan from Amazon, but v-neck tees are easy go-tos. They elongate your frame and can be dressed up or down depending on the bottoms you’re wearing. Quince makes a wonderful 100% Organic Cotton Slub V Neck Tee, or you could do their Washable Stretch Silk V-Neck Cami instead for a more polished look.

Turtleneck Sweater

When it’s really cold, I love to layer a fitted turtleneck sweater under a cardigan. It keeps me warm and looks super polished. I usually go for a fine-knit turtleneck like this mockneck option from Madewell under a wool or chunky knit cardigan to create a mixture of textures and depth. This combo looks great with tailored trousers, jeans, or even a midi skirt. Choose a neutral turtleneck for a timeless feel, or experiment with color-blocking for a modern twist.

I fell in love with this Merino Wool-Silk Sweater Tank from Madewell this past fall and it’s the perfect mockneck for layering under cardigans.

Dress

Okay, I know I said that we weren’t talking about your grandma’s cardigan that she wore with sundresses, but I do want to mention how to tastefully style a cardigan with a dress since there are some great outfit variations. I wore this cozy vintage cardigan over a maxi dress this winter and loved the balance of the layers. Another cute option is draping a cardigan over a slip dress like this from Quince since that’s such a chic and polished look–and I love it when people drape a chunky knit cardigan over their shoulders when they wear a maxi dress in the warm weather. You can even belt a cardigan and dress to define the waist for a flattering look.

Final Thoughts

I hope these ideas give you some inspiration for how to style the cardigans you have laying around in your closet. I love layering over a classic white tee, pairing a ribbed tank underneath, or going cardigan-only. If you have other outfit ideas for cardigans, I’d love to hear them in the comments.

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