Cozy, timeless, and surprisingly chic — the cardigan is having a serious moment in 2025.
Whether you're knitting your own or pulling one from your handmade wardrobe, the cardigan has officially gone from "grandma staple" to must-have fashion piece. And the best part? You can style it your way.
Here’s how to layer and style a hand-knit cardigan this year — plus tips on yarn choice, fit, and how to make it look effortlessly elegant.
🧥 1. Go Fitted for a Polished Everyday Look
This year, cropped and shrunken-fit cardigans are making a comeback.
Think early 2000s — but upgraded with soft, breathable natural yarns.
Pair it with:
-
High-waisted jeans or tailored trousers
-
A white tank or mock neck top underneath
-
Delicate gold jewelry and a slick bun for a modern edge
🧶 Recommended yarn: Use a fine-weight alpaca-cotton blend like Sierra Yarns' Andean Spirit for softness without bulk.
🧣 2. Oversized & Open: Your Effortless Weekend Uniform
Loose, open-front cardigans are perfect for layering in transitional weather — and they never go out of style.
Pair it with:
-
Leggings or wide-leg pants
-
A long-sleeve T-shirt or Henley
-
A knit beanie or scarf for a layered texture effect
💡 Styling tip: Use neutral tones like oat, stone, or charcoal to keep the look elevated. Earthy tones are trending big in 2025.
👗 3. Belted for Shape (Without Losing Comfort)
Take your chunky cardigan from cozy to flattering by adding a belt. It cinches the waist and adds structure to thicker knits.
Pair it with:
-
A fitted knit dress or maxi skirt
-
Knee-high boots or platform loafers
-
A thin leather or woven belt over the cardigan
🧶 Try knitting a cardigan with a built-in tie belt or add your own handmade belt for a fully finished look.
📚 4. Cardigan as Outerwear
Who says you need a jacket? In spring and fall, a well-knit cardigan is your coat.
Pair it with:
-
A button-up shirt and jeans for a smart-casual vibe
-
Layered over a turtleneck for warmth
-
Finished with a structured handbag for balance
✔️ Tip: If you're knitting a cardigan for outerwear, choose a medium or bulky-weight yarn and block it properly to maintain structure.
🧶 Best Yarns for Stylish Cardigans
For a cardigan that looks beautiful and feels even better, stick with natural, breathable yarns that drape well and resist pilling.
Top choices:
-
Baby alpaca + cotton blends → Soft and lightweight (perfect for layering)
-
Pima cotton → Smooth, strong, and great for transitional weather
-
Merino wool → Springy and great for stitch definition
✨ Sierra Yarns specializes in luxurious blends that are made to elevate your knitting and your style.
💡 Final Thoughts
Whether oversized or fitted, belted or loose, the cardigan in 2025 is all about effortless layering and intentional design.
And if you're making your own? Choose yarn that feels amazing on your hands and on your body.
👉 Ready to knit your next cardigan?
Explore our ultra-soft yarns and curated knitting kits — perfect for building the handmade wardrobe of your dreams.