Cardigan Outfit Inspiration, No Matter the Season

They're a year-round staple—allow us to prove it.

Lady talking on phone
(Image credit: Edward Berthelot / Getty Images)

No matter the season, cardigans are the perfect transitional piece, taking you from chilly spring mornings to breezier summer nights and then back again for fall/winter. As the sun goes down in the summertime and the breeze elicits goosebumps on your skin, you can cover up with a cozy cropped cardigan. For us 9-to-5 folks, office air conditioners are the number one enemy, so you can keep a cardigan on hand to wrap yourself up. And in the cold winter months, you can layer a cardigan over a knit for a double layer of warmth that's both fashionable and functional. Ahead, cardigan outfit ideas for 2021 that are perfect for whatever you have planned.

Back To School Cool

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Lady with handbag

(Image credit: Christian Vierig / Getty Images)

Argyle isn't just for the golf course. The tried-and-true cardigan print got an update this season with dainty collars and embellished buttons. Rock yours in an unexpected way: with a sleek pair of leather pants, embellished mules, and a shiny pair of gold hoop earrings.

Lean Into Ladylike

Bow-adorned cardigan with a poppy skirt

(Image credit: Melodie Jeng / Getty Images)

Elevate a sweet-looking bow-adorned cardigan with a poppy skirt, sophisticated slides, and feminine gem heart earrings. This outfit is the perfect ensemble for outdoor gatherings and bridal and baby showers.

Check Please

Check Cardigan and Skirt

(Image credit: Christian Vierig / Getty Images)

Look work appropriate without reading stuffy. Pair an oversized checkered cardigan with a slightly slouchy khaki and smart looking loafers. A cool crossbody bag will serve up function without sacrificing style.

Leisure Street

Lady with handbag

(Image credit: Jeremy Moeller / Getty Images)

One thing that's come out of our “new normal” is the influx of luxe loungewear—cardigans included. If you’re tired of wearing sweats, go for a tailored, yet cozy knit set. Trade in your house slippers for a pair of clogs.

Off-Duty Darling

Lady wearing beautiful outfit

(Image credit: Claudio Lavenia / Getty Images)

Timeless and chic, this outfit has a no-brainer formula: a relaxed fit cardigan, jeans that fit to perfection, and a wear-with-anything pair of fisherman sandals.

Sara Holzman
Style Director

Sara Holzman is the Style Director at Marie Claire, covering runway trends and tracking down the latest finds to buy and wear. When she’s not writing about fashion, she pens about the best places to jet-off to. Over her six years with Marie Claire, Sara has reported on the ever-evolving world of fashion— covering both established and emerging designers within the industry. Sara has held fashion positions at Lucky and SELF Magazine and was a regular contributor to Equinox’s Furthermore website, where she wrote across their style, wellness, and travel verticals. She holds a degree in Journalism from the University of Missouri, Columbia, and currently resides in Manhattan. Follow her along at @sarajonewyork.