Women's cardigans and sweater vests are the layering pieces that make every other item in your closet work harder. Open-front knits, preppy vests, longline dusters — this collection covers the soft side of layering.
Your Knit Layer Edit
- Classic button-front cardigans in soft knits
- Longline styles that add coverage and drape
- Chunky sweater vests for preppy-meets-street fits
- Fitted and oversized silhouettes
- Season-spanning weights and textures
How to Layer Cardigans and Vests
Wear a knit cardigan open over a t-shirt, or button it up as a top on its own. Chunky sweater vests look sharp over crop pullovers, while classic knits pair with sweaters and pullovers for extra warmth.
Cardigan vs. Sweater Vest
| Piece |
Coverage |
Vibe |
| Knit cardigan |
Full sleeves |
Classic, cozy |
| Long cardigan |
Full sleeves, longline |
Duster, layered |
| Sweater vest |
Sleeveless |
Preppy, Y2K |
| Chunky vest |
Sleeveless, textured |
Statement, street |
Style the Full Look
Underneath, turtleneck sweaters add polish, while denim jackets and puffer jackets go over cardigans when temps drop. Pair with wide leg dress pants for work or shorts and knee high socks for the weekend.
Add a Y2K beanie and socks and hosiery to finish. Cardigans and sweater vests are the pieces you'll reach for first — shop the edit and see why.
Sizing Your Knit Layers
Knit layers should fit with a little ease — enough room to move and to layer a tee underneath without gaping. Cardigans can run true to size or oversized depending on the style, while sweater vests should sit close through the shoulders with a relaxed body. Check the armholes on vests especially; they should be neat, not sloppy.
If you're between sizes, think about how you'll wear the piece: size down for a buttoned, tailored look, or up if you want an open, slouchy drape over thicker knits. Either way, a properly sized layer makes everything over and under it look better.
