A great knit cardigan is one of those wardrobe pieces that earns its keep season after season. It goes over everything, it makes casual outfits look considered and polished outfits look relaxed, and it solves the eternal problem of Australian autumn: mornings that start at 12 degrees and afternoons that reach 22.
Here is how to style a knit cardigan properly — whether you are working with an open-front style, a cropped cut or an oversized layering piece.
1. Over a midi dress
This is the easiest and most effective cardigan outfit there is. A flowing midi dress plus an open-front cardigan is a complete look that requires almost no thought. The proportions work because the length of the dress and the length of the cardigan balance each other — and the contrast between something soft and draped (the dress) and something more structured (the knit) creates a genuinely stylish layered look.
Try the Dorine Cardigan in Forest Green over the Korbela Dress in Beige for an earthy tonal combination, or the Colline Cardigan in Multi over a simple black midi dress for a colour pop that does the heavy lifting.
2. Tucked into high-waisted denim
A cropped or semi-cropped cardigan tucked partially into a pair of high-waisted straight-leg jeans is one of the most versatile casual outfits in the playbook. It works because the tuck creates a waist and breaks the outfit into proportions that are almost universally flattering.
The Joansy Knit in Oat or Chocolate is perfect for this — a relaxed crew neck with a high-low hem that gives you natural tuck options. Pair with white straight-leg denim and white sneakers for a clean casual look.
3. Over a slip dress
A slip dress or satin dress layered under an open-front cardigan is the elevated version of the dress-plus-cardigan combination. The contrast of textures — smooth satin and textured knit — creates something that looks genuinely intentional. Wear with pointed-toe kitten heels or ankle boots.
4. With wide-leg trousers for work
A cardigan worn open over wide-leg tailored trousers and a simple fitted tank or turtleneck underneath is a sophisticated workwear combination that is also genuinely comfortable. The key is keeping the bottom half structured so the relaxed cardigan does not make the whole look feel too casual.
The Sheona Cardigan in Sage Multi or Peach Multi adds personality to an otherwise neutral workwear palette — try it over black wide-leg trousers and a black long-sleeve top for a look that is polished without being boring.
5. As outerwear over a simple outfit
An oversized open-front knit cardigan worn as a coat replacement is one of the smartest things you can do in Australian autumn, when a full winter coat feels like overkill but a jacket is not quite enough. The Dorine Cardigan in any colourway is genuinely warm enough to serve as outerwear for a mild autumn day — throw it over jeans and a tee and you have a complete look.
6. Belted at the waist
Adding a slim belt over an open-front cardigan transforms it from a layering piece into something more structured and intentional. Cinch at the natural waist, leave the cardigan open above and below the belt, and pair with a midi skirt or wide-leg trousers for an outfit that looks like considerably more effort than it required.
7. With a mini dress and boots
A long oversized cardigan worn over a very short mini dress — with the cardigan hitting mid-thigh or below — and paired with knee-high or ankle boots creates a proportioned layered look that has been a street style staple for good reason. Try a neutral or earthy cardigan over a printed or bold-coloured mini.
8. With leather or faux-leather pants
A relaxed knit cardigan over slim faux-leather pants is a slightly edgier combination that still reads as elevated casual. The softness of the knit balances the sharpness of the leather, and the whole thing works especially well in a tonal palette — camel cardigan and tan leather, or a cream knit over black leather.
9. Layered over a shirt
An open cardigan layered over a classic button-up shirt is a preppy, classic combination that works as well for brunch as it does for casual Fridays at the office. Layer a fitted ribbed cardigan over a striped or plain shirt, leave the cardigan undone, and pair with straight-leg jeans and loafers.
10. As part of a knitwear set
Matching or tonal knitwear — a cardigan and a knit midi skirt, or a cardigan worn with matching wide-leg knit pants — is one of the most current ways to wear cardigans right now. It reads as luxurious and considered, and it is far easier to put together than it looks. Look for pieces in the same colour family or in complementary neutrals.
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Browse our full range of cardigans and knitwear at Esther & Co. New styles arriving weekly, free shipping over $150, 90-day store credit returns.
