What to Wear Under a Cardigan: 5 Stylish Outfit Ideas
Stephanie Patterson
Table of Contents
If you’re like me, you love the versatility of a cardigan sweater. It’s perfect for layering and can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion. But what should you wear underneath a cardigan to complete the look? This is a question that many people ask themselves when putting together an outfit.
After doing some research and experimenting with different styles, I’ve found a few key pieces that work well under a cardigan. First and foremost, it’s important to consider the fit of the cardigan. If it’s a slouchy or oversized style, it’s best to wear something more form-fitting underneath to balance out the proportions. On the other hand, if the cardigan is more fitted, you can get away with wearing a looser top underneath.
Another factor to consider is the occasion. For a casual daytime look, a simple t-shirt or tank top can work well under a cardigan. If you’re going for a more polished look, a button-up shirt or blouse can elevate the outfit. And if you’re feeling adventurous, you can even try wearing a tie under your cardigan for a unique twist on the classic look.
Undergarments
What you wear under your cardigan is just as important as what you wear on top. Here are some options for undergarments:
Bra Options
Choosing the right bra to wear under a cardigan can make all the difference in how comfortable you feel throughout the day. Here are some options:
- T-Shirt Bra: A t-shirt bra is a seamless bra that is great for wearing under fitted cardigans. It provides a smooth silhouette and is perfect for everyday wear.
- Bralette: A bralette is a comfortable and stylish bra that is perfect for wearing under oversized or chunky cardigans. It provides light support and is great for those who prefer a more relaxed fit.
- Sports Bra: If you plan on being active while wearing your cardigan, a sports bra is a great option. It provides support and comfort for all your physical activities.
Shapewear Options
If you want to smooth out any bumps or lumps, shapewear is a great option. Here are some options:
| Type of Shapewear | Benefits |
| Bodysuit | Provides full-body coverage and smooths out any bumps or lumps. |
| High-Waisted Shorts | Provides tummy control and smooths out any bumps or lumps around the waist and hips. |
| Thigh Slimmers | Provides thigh control and smooths out any bumps or lumps around the thighs. |
Remember to choose shapewear that fits well and is comfortable to wear throughout the day.
Tops
When it comes to what to wear under a cardigan, there are many different options to choose from. In this section, I will discuss some of the best tops to wear under a cardigan.
T-Shirt options
T-shirts are a classic choice for wearing under a cardigan. They are comfortable, versatile, and come in many different styles and colors. Here are some t-shirt options to consider:
- Plain White T-Shirt: A plain white t-shirt is a timeless classic that goes with everything. It’s simple, clean, and looks great under a cardigan.
- Graphic T-Shirt: If you want to add a little personality to your outfit, a graphic t-shirt is a great option. Look for a t-shirt with a fun design or slogan that reflects your personal style.
- Striped T-Shirt: A striped t-shirt is a great way to add some visual interest to your outfit. Look for a t-shirt with thin stripes in a neutral color like black or navy.
Blouse options
If you want to dress up your cardigan a bit, a blouse is a great option. Here are some blouse options to consider:
| Blouse Type | Features |
| Silk Blouse | Soft, flowy fabric that looks elegant and sophisticated |
| Lace Blouse | Feminine and romantic, with delicate lace detailing |
| Chiffon Blouse | Lightweight and airy, with a sheer, translucent quality |
When choosing a blouse to wear under a cardigan, look for one that complements the style and color of your cardigan. If your cardigan is a solid color, you can choose a blouse with a pattern or print to add some visual interest. If your cardigan has a pattern or texture, choose a blouse in a solid color that complements it.
Bottoms
When it comes to what to wear under a cardigan, choosing the right bottoms is just as important as selecting the right top. Here are some options for both jeans and slacks:
Jeans Options
When wearing a cardigan with jeans, you want to make sure that the jeans complement the cardigan and don’t clash with it. Dark wash jeans are always a safe bet, but you can also experiment with lighter washes and even colored denim. If you’re going for a casual look, you can pair your cardigan with distressed jeans or ripped jeans.
Just make sure that the rips aren’t too large or in inappropriate places. For a more polished look, you can wear your cardigan with skinny jeans or straight-leg jeans. These styles will give you a sleek and sophisticated silhouette.
Slacks Options
If you’re looking to dress up your cardigan, slacks are a great option. You can choose from a variety of materials, including wool, cotton, and even silk. For a classic look, you can pair your cardigan with black or gray slacks. These colors are versatile and will match with almost any cardigan.
If you want to add some color to your outfit, you can wear your cardigan with colored slacks. Just make sure that the color complements the cardigan and isn’t too bold or bright. Another option is to wear your cardigan with patterned slacks. This can add some visual interest to your outfit and make it stand out.
Overall, when choosing what to wear under a cardigan, it’s important to consider the occasion and your personal style. Whether you opt for jeans or slacks, make sure that your outfit is comfortable, stylish, and appropriate for the situation.
Accessories
I always like to add a little extra to my outfits with accessories. Here are some options to consider when wearing a cardigan:
Jewelry Options
Jewelry is a great way to dress up any outfit, and adding it to your cardigan look can really make it pop. Some options to consider are:
- A statement necklace
- Dangly earrings
- A stack of bracelets
When choosing jewelry, consider the neckline of your shirt and the style of your cardigan. If your cardigan has a v-neck, a necklace that sits just above the neckline can be a great option. If your cardigan is a chunky knit, dangly earrings can add a nice contrast to the texture.
Shoe Options
Shoes can really change the vibe of an outfit, and pairing the right shoes with your cardigan can take your look to the next level. Here are some options to consider:
| Shoe Type | Outfit Style |
| Flats | Casual, comfortable |
| Heels | Dressy, sophisticated |
| Ankle boots | Edgy, trendy |
When choosing shoes, consider the occasion and the overall style you’re going for. If you’re wearing your cardigan to work, a pair of classic pumps can really elevate your look. If you’re going for a more casual vibe, a pair of flats or ankle boots can be a great option.
Conclusion
In conclusion, choosing what to wear under a cardigan can be a fun and creative way to express your personal style. Whether you prefer a classic and professional look or a more casual and comfortable outfit, there are many options to choose from.
Some popular choices for layering under a cardigan include button-down shirts, tank tops, and t-shirts. You can also experiment with different fabrics and textures, such as silk or lace, to add some visual interest to your outfit. When it comes to choosing colors, you can never go wrong with neutrals like black, white, and beige.
However, don’t be afraid to add a pop of color with a bright tank top or patterned shirt. Remember to consider the occasion when choosing what to wear under a cardigan. For a more formal event, opt for a button-down shirt and dress pants. For a casual day out, a t-shirt and jeans can be a comfortable and stylish choice.
Overall, the key to wearing a cardigan is to have fun with layering and mixing and matching different pieces. With these tips and ideas, you can create a variety of stylish and comfortable outfits that are perfect for any occasion.
