It's not often that a piece of clothing becomes a time capsule and fits both Harry Styles and Kurt Cobain. We are, of course, talking about cardigans, a seemingly unglamorous item of clothing that has become a staple in the fashion wardrobes of several generations. So we can't help but take a look at the cardigan trends for 2023!
A brief history of the cardigan – from Coco Chanel to Kurt Cobain and Taylor Swift
Although the vest is an old fashion item that first appeared in the 19th century, this classic has also become part of pop culture. Here are some of the personalities who contributed to the fame of the cardigan, from its earliest roots to the present day.
Coco Chanel:French couturier Gabrielle “Coco” Chanel is credited with popularizing cardigans among women in the 1920s because she disliked the way traditional sweaters messed up her hair when she put them on. Inspired by the legendary designer's early work, cardigans can still be found on the runways of Chanel's boutiques today and are just as relevant in 2023.
Kurt Cobain: On the other end of the style spectrum, rock icon Kurt Cobain introduced a whole new generation to the cardigan in the '90s. The Nirvana frontman took an item of clothing usually seen on grandparents and made it cool by pairing it with t-shirts and frayed jeans. One of the singer's most famous vests, which he wore to the band's 1993 MTV Unplugged concert, sold at auction for $334,000.
Michelle Obama: Fine-knit cardigans were a staple of Michelle Obama's wardrobe as First Lady. According to surveys, this led to a spike in sales as fans tried to emulate her elegant style.
Taylor Swift: A few years ago, the singer took the unusual step of selling cardigans in her online boutiques alongside more traditional items like hoodies and T-shirts, bringing the garment back to the fashion scene with a younger generation of fans.
Notice: All models listed so far are among the current cardigan trends for 2023!
Also read:These are 5 of the coolest trends for fall & winter 2023/24
Cardigan trends 2023 – which ones are popular and how to style them
You are about to find out what other models fall into the Cardigan Trends 2023 category and how to style them!
Short V-neck cardigan
You will see cropped cardigans everywhere and in all colors in 2023, because it is an indispensable part of the 2023 fashion trends. Due to its cut and length, it is ideal for combining with jeans, wide trousers and midi skirts. You can wear them alone or as outerwear over a shirt or t-shirt, unbuttoned or buttoned up. Here are some suggestions on how to style the cropped V-neck cardigan!
The vest can take the ordinary t-shirt out of the realm of street style when presented in a sophisticated way. A dainty bag, elegant skirt and coordinating jewelry bring out the best in this cardigan outfit.
Oversized cardigans will also be popular in fall 2023, but the same goes for their cropped versions. Combine them with jeans and extravagant shoes to create a flirty and fashionable outfit.
We love the lace look of a button-down shirt and collar, but the combination can easily be perceived as a "stern principal's look" rather than avant-garde and romantic. This is where the brightly colored cardigan comes into play. An oversaturated hue will modernize even the most authentic Victorian lace.
Boyfriend cardigan is totally on the rise
This style is called a boyfriend cardigan because it's big and looks like you borrowed it from your athlete boyfriend. It is also known as the “grandpa vest” because of its length, which can reach mid-thigh. It has a V-neck, large buttons and a straight cut. You can find it in all sorts of colors and prints and there are great fashionable combinations you can create with it. Here are some of them.
Surprise yourself by combining unexpected textures in a single cardigan outfit. A long, flowing cardigan looks sunny and playful when paired with a crochet mini dress and a gold metallic belt.
Crochet fashion trend – Why are crocheted clothing and accessories such an absolute hit?You can find out here!
Oversized cardigans don't have to take up the rest of your outfit. Instead of letting the oversized shape dictate your silhouette, add a big, trendy belt to accentuate your waist and head out the door.
Also read:How to style a cardigan? Autumn outfit ideas for different occasions!
The Coco Chanel vest remains a classic in 2023
The Coco Chanel-inspired cardigan model is one of the big cardigan trends of 2023. It is usually made from heavy fabrics such as tweed and bouclé, but in its modern version you can also see it in lighter fabrics.
In this case, you can even wear them tucked into a short skirt and style them with a collar to create an elegant and attractive fall look.
Chunky loafer outfits: How to style the trend shoes in autumn 2023!You can find out here!
