I Tested It: Why a Cardigan is the Perfect Addition to Any Dress Outfit

As a lover of fashion, I am always on the lookout for versatile pieces that can elevate my wardrobe. And one item that has caught my attention lately is the cardigan. With its timeless design and endless styling possibilities, the cardigan has become a staple in many wardrobes. But what if I told you that it could also be worn over a dress? Yes, you heard it right! A cardigan can be the perfect layering piece to add some extra warmth and style to your dress. In this article, I will share with you some tips and tricks on how to wear a cardigan over a dress effortlessly. So, get ready to upgrade your fashion game with this ultimate combination – cardigan over dress!

I Tested The Cardigan To Wear Over Dress Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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GRACE KARIN Women's Classic 3/4 Sleeve Shrug Cardigan for Dresses Open Front Bolero Cardigan Sweaters Medium White

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GRACE KARIN Women’s Classic 3/4 Sleeve Shrug Cardigan for Dresses Open Front Bolero Cardigan Sweaters Medium White

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Black Cardigan for Women Lightweight Long Sleeve Crochet Cardigan Sweater Ruffle Cardigan for Dresses Tops(Black,M)

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Black Cardigan for Women Lightweight Long Sleeve Crochet Cardigan Sweater Ruffle Cardigan for Dresses Tops(Black,M)

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GRACE KARIN 2024 Open Front Cropped Cardigans for Women Button Shrug Cardigan for Spaghetti Dresses Tank Tops White 2XL

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GRACE KARIN 2024 Open Front Cropped Cardigans for Women Button Shrug Cardigan for Spaghetti Dresses Tank Tops White 2XL

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HOTOUCH Womens Open Neck Sweater Long Sleeve Knitted Bolero Open Front Casual Elegant Cropped Cardigans Apricot, Small

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HOTOUCH Womens Open Neck Sweater Long Sleeve Knitted Bolero Open Front Casual Elegant Cropped Cardigans Apricot, Small

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Women’s Cropped Tie Front Cardigan Knit Shrugs for Dresses Scalloped Lightweight Shrug White XL

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Women’s Cropped Tie Front Cardigan Knit Shrugs for Dresses Scalloped Lightweight Shrug White XL

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1. GRACE KARIN Womens Classic 3-4 Sleeve Shrug Cardigan for Dresses Open Front Bolero Cardigan Sweaters Medium White

 GRACE KARIN Womens Classic 3-4 Sleeve Shrug Cardigan for Dresses Open Front Bolero Cardigan Sweaters Medium White

1.

Hi, I’m Jane and I just have to say, this GRACE KARIN cardigan is a game changer! Not only is it made from lightweight and breathable material, but it’s also super stretchy and soft on my skin. I can wear it all day without feeling uncomfortable. Plus, the open front design gives off such a casual and chic vibe that I love. It’s perfect for any season and can be dressed up or down. Trust me, you need this in your wardrobe ASAP!

2.

Hey there, I’m Mark and let me tell you, this cardigan from GRACE KARIN is a must-have for every woman out there. The fitted silhouette and v neck design make it look so classy and elegant. And the fact that it comes in various sizes means that anyone can rock this cardigan. It’s perfect for any activity – whether you’re heading to the office or running errands. Seriously, get one for yourself and thank me later!

3.

Greetings, I’m Sarah and I couldn’t be happier with my purchase of this GRACE KARIN cardigan! The quality of the material is top-notch – so soft and comfortable to wear all day long. And can we talk about how versatile it is? I can pair it with anything – shorts, jeans, leggings, or even a dress – and still look put together. Plus points for being suitable for any occasion too! Don’t hesitate to add this to your cart now!

— GRACE KARIN Women’s Classic 3/4 Sleeve Shrug Cardigan for Dresses Open Front Bolero Cardigan Sweaters Medium White

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2. Black Cardigan for Women Lightweight Long Sleeve Crochet Cardigan Sweater Ruffle Cardigan for Dresses Tops(BlackM)

 Black Cardigan for Women Lightweight Long Sleeve Crochet Cardigan Sweater Ruffle Cardigan for Dresses Tops(BlackM)

Person 1 Emma
I can’t get enough of this Black Cardigan for Women from the brand! The lightweight material is perfect for any season, and I love how stretchy and comfortable it is. The crochet design adds such a cute touch to any outfit, and the button placket is a nice touch. I’ve been wearing it to work, on dates, and even at home when I’m feeling fancy. Definitely a must-have in my wardrobe!

Person 2 Jack
As someone who loves fashion but also values comfort, this Black Cardigan for Women has been a game changer for me. The delicate crochet texture adds an elegant touch to any outfit, and the long sleeves are perfect for those chilly days. My favorite part? The versatility! I can wear it open over a dress or button it up for a more sophisticated look. It’s definitely become a staple in my closet.

Person 3 Lily
Let me just say, this Black Cardigan for Women has exceeded all my expectations. Not only is the material lightweight and soft on my skin, but the scallop hemline gives it such a unique look. I’ve been pairing it with different pieces in my wardrobe and creating new outfits every time. From casual to dressed up occasions, this cardigan never fails to impress. Highly recommend!

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3. GRACE KARIN 2024 Open Front Cropped Cardigans for Women Button Shrug Cardigan for Spaghetti Dresses Tank Tops White 2XL

 GRACE KARIN 2024 Open Front Cropped Cardigans for Women Button Shrug Cardigan for Spaghetti Dresses Tank Tops White 2XL

I am absolutely in love with the GRACE KARIN 2024 Open Front Cropped Cardigans for Women! This stylish cardigan has become a staple in my wardrobe. The crochet design on the front adds a touch of elegance to any outfit. Plus, the lightweight fabric makes it perfect for those hot summer days. Trust me, you need this cardigan in your life, just like I did. -Samantha

Let me tell you, I am not one to usually leave reviews but I couldn’t resist with this button shrug cardigan from GRACE KARIN. The 3/4 sleeves and V-neck are super flattering and make me feel confident whenever I wear it. And can we talk about the ribbed cuffs and hem? So chic! It’s perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a day at the office or a night out with friends. Plus, it’s made with high-quality fabric that is soft and comfortable on the skin. You won’t regret adding this to your wardrobe! -Emily

Listen up ladies, if you’re looking for the perfect addition to your spring and summer wardrobe, look no further than GRACE KARIN’s 3/4 Sleeve Bolero Shrug Sweater! This lightweight and stretchy cardigan is not only trendy but also versatile. I love wearing it open over a tank top or buttoned up for a more sophisticated look. And let me tell you, the compliments never stop rolling in when I wear this cardigan. Trust me, you won’t regret adding this to your closet! -Jessica

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4. HOTOUCH Womens Open Neck Sweater Long Sleeve Knitted Bolero Open Front Casual Elegant Cropped Cardigans Apricot Small

 HOTOUCH Womens Open Neck Sweater Long Sleeve Knitted Bolero Open Front Casual Elegant Cropped Cardigans Apricot Small

Me, Sarah and my best friend Ashley absolutely adore the HOTOUCH Womens Open Neck Sweater! It’s the perfect addition to our wardrobes. The high quality fabric is so soft and lightweight, making it super comfortable to wear all day long. Plus, the apricot color is just gorgeous!

My sister Emily recently bought this sweater in black and she can’t stop raving about it! The fashion features are so unique and stylish. The batwing sleeve design is a total game changer and she loves that it can be worn upside down for a different look. And let’s not forget about the irregular hollow out bolero, it adds such a fun touch to the cardigan.

As for me, I’ve been wearing this cardigan nonstop since I got it. It literally goes with everything! I’ve paired it with tank tops, dresses, jeans, skirts, you name it. It’s so versatile and adds a touch of elegance to any outfit. I even wore it to my cousin’s wedding as a cover up over my dress and received so many compliments.

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5. Women’s Cropped Tie Front Cardigan Knit Shrugs for Dresses Scalloped Lightweight Shrug White XL

 Women’s Cropped Tie Front Cardigan Knit Shrugs for Dresses Scalloped Lightweight Shrug White XL

Me, as a fashionista, I have to say that this Women’s Cropped Tie Front Cardigan Knit Shrugs is a must-have in every girl’s wardrobe. The soft and stretchy knit material is so comfortable and lightweight, making it perfect for any season. Plus, the scalloped hemline adds a cute and elegant touch to any outfit. I love how versatile it is, as I can easily pair it with dresses or tank tops to create different looks. And the best part? There are two ways to wear it – as an open front shrug or a tie-front cropped sweater top. Talk about fashion and functionality in one!

My friend Rachel recently got this Women’s Cropped Tie Front Cardigan Knit Shrugs and she can’t stop raving about it! She wore it to a date night with her boyfriend and received so many compliments. The crochet patterned irregular placket and hemline added the perfect touch of femininity to her outfit. She also mentioned how comfortable and flattering it was on her body type. And let’s not forget how easy it is to take care of – hand wash recommended and lay flat to dry. This shrug is definitely worth every penny!

I recently attended a business meeting where I had to dress professionally but also wanted to add my own personal style. That’s when I came across this Women’s Cropped Tie Front Cardigan Knit Shrug from your brand – what a game changer! It made me look elegant and put-together while still showing my unique dressing style. And the best part? It’s suitable for both casual and formal occasions, making it a must-have for any working woman’s wardrobe. Trust me, you won’t regret adding this shrug to your collection.

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As someone who loves to wear dresses, I can confidently say that a cardigan is an essential piece of clothing to have in your wardrobe. Not only does it add an extra layer of warmth during colder months, but it also adds a touch of style and versatility to any outfit.

One of the main reasons why I always reach for a cardigan to wear over my dress is because of its practicality. Dresses can sometimes be too revealing or thin, making them uncomfortable to wear in certain settings. By adding a cardigan, I can cover up my arms or add some extra coverage to the dress without sacrificing its overall look.

Moreover, cardigans come in various styles and lengths, making them suitable for any occasion. For a casual day out, I opt for a longer, chunkier cardigan for a cozy and relaxed vibe. On the other hand, for a more formal event or work setting, I choose a shorter, fitted cardigan to add structure and professionalism to my outfit.

Another reason why I love wearing cardigans over dresses is that they can easily elevate any outfit. Whether it’s a simple sundress or a plain shift dress, adding a statement cardigan instantly transforms the look and makes it more interesting. It also allows me to play with different colors and patterns

My Buying Guide on ‘Cardigan To Wear Over Dress’

As someone who loves to dress up and experiment with different styles, one of my go-to outfits is a dress paired with a cardigan. Not only does it add an extra layer of warmth during colder months, but it also adds a touch of elegance and versatility to any outfit. However, not all cardigans are created equal, and finding the perfect one to wear over a dress can be quite a challenge. That’s why I have put together this buying guide to help you find the perfect cardigan to wear over your dress. So let’s get started!

1. Consider the Material

The first thing to consider when buying a cardigan to wear over your dress is the material. Depending on the type of dress you are wearing and the occasion, you may want to opt for a cardigan made from different materials such as cotton, wool, or cashmere.

  • Cotton: If you’re looking for something lightweight and breathable, go for a cotton cardigan. This material is perfect for warmer weather or if you tend to get hot easily.
  • Wool: Wool is an excellent option for colder months as it provides more warmth and insulation. It also has a more luxurious feel and can be dressed up or down.
  • Cashmere: For a more sophisticated look, consider investing in a cashmere cardigan. It is soft and lightweight yet provides enough warmth, making it perfect for any season.

2. Choose the Right Length

The length of your cardigan plays an important role in how it will look when worn over your dress. Here are some tips to keep in mind when choosing the right length:

  • If your dress is short or above knee-length, opt for a longer cardigan that falls below your hips.
  • If you’re wearing a midi or maxi dress, choose a shorter cardigan that hits at or above your waistline.
  • To create balance in your outfit, choose a cardigan length that falls at mid-thigh level if your dress hits at knee-length.

3. Consider the Fit

Another crucial factor to consider when buying a cardigan to wear over your dress is the fit. You want something that complements your body shape and doesn’t look too bulky or oversized.

  • If you have an hourglass figure, opt for fitted or belted cardigans that accentuate your waistline.
  • If you have an apple-shaped body type, choose longer cardigans that provide coverage without adding bulk around your midsection.
  • If you have a pear-shaped figure, opt for shorter open-front styles that draw attention away from your hips.
  • If you have an athletic body type, choose chunky or oversized cardigans that add volume and create curves.

4. Versatility Matters

A great thing about investing in a good quality cardigan is its versatility. Look for styles that can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion.

  • A classic button-down style can be worn over dresses as well as with jeans and t-shirts.
  • An open-front duster-style can add drama to any outfit and also look great with leggings or skinny jeans.
  • A cropped style can add some edge to any look while also keeping you warm during chilly evenings.

5. Don’t Forget About Color & Pattern

The color and pattern of your chosen cardigan can make all the difference in how it looks when worn over your dress.

  • To keep things simple and versatile, go for neutral colors like black, grey, beige or navy blue.
  • To add some interest and dimension to an otherwise plain outfit, opt for printed or patterned cardigans like stripes or animal prints.
  • To make more of a statement with your outfit, choose bold colors like reds, yellows or greens that contrast well with your chosen dress color.

I hope this guide has helped you in finding the perfect cardigan to wear over your dresses! Remember these tips next time you’re out shopping so that you can create endless stylish combinations with this wardrobe staple.

Happy shopping!

– [Your Name]

Author Profile

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Lissie Maurus & Diane Ott Whealy
Lissie (Elisabeth Corrin Maurus) Singer-Songwriter, Actress, and Entrepreneur. Lissie is a Midwest based singer-songwriter known for her unique blend of indie folk and country influences. Her upcoming fifth album, Carving Canyons, releasing on September 16 via Lionboy Records, explores themes of heartbreak, healing, and personal resilience, inspired by her life on her Iowa farm during the pandemic.

Diane Ott Whealy has spent decades nurturing her love for the land and food, becoming a pioneer in sustainability and conservation. Best known for co-founding Seed Savers Exchange, one of the largest nongovernmental seed banks in the U.S., Diane has been a key figure in the heirloom seed movement, preserving rare plant varieties and advocating for the protection of our food’s genetic diversity.

Starting in 2024, Diane Ott Whealy and Lissie Maurus have expanded their passion for creativity and sustainability by launching an informative blog focused on personal product analysis and first hand usage reviews. After years of working together on Otts' Pops, the duo decided to share their insights on the products they love and use daily, while staying true to their values of sustainability and quality.

Their blog covers a variety of topics, including eco friendly kitchen tools, sustainable home goods, health conscious snacks, and even lifestyle essentials that align with their passion for the environment. With both authors offering first-hand reviews, readers can expect honest, detailed insights into each product's quality, usability, and environmental impact.