Wrap Cardigan

"Versatile and Chic Cardigan Sweater Style"

Compared to button-down cardigan sweaters, a wrap cardigan is sleeker and elegant. It's also flattering as theren't any buttons that add bulk to your tummy area.

Black drape open wrap cardigan
Courtesy of Urban Outfitters

It's also known as an "open cardigan" that you wear unbuttoned. What I really like about it is the button-free front - adding a pretty drapey texture to your outfit. And if you wear it with a belt, you'll create a polished and chic look - perfect for women who appreciate classy but casual outfits.

On this page you'll find fashion advice and styling tips on how to wear wrap cardigans - from how to layer to ideas on how to combine it into a chic outfit!

How to Wear an Open Cardigan

Although I love this type of sweater, I do have some reservations about it, which are:

Watch out for the layers

Knit open cardigan worn with a denim shirt
Courtesy of Urban Outfitters

Too much draping can add a lot of bulk and make you look clunkier around the middle and hips. However, it might be a good thing for gals who want to create curves - just don't overdo it :-)

I'm not necessarily talking about the amount of layers - but the thickness and texture of the garments you want to wear with the cardigan. For example, avoid wearing more than one "fattening" clothing. So if you decide to wear a chunky knit open cardigan - make sure the top underneath is thinner and more light-weight. Looks sleeker this way.

Camouflage that flab the right way

Like I said too bulk can only highlight any upper body-problem areas such as a muffin top, full or wide tummy and a full bust. The best way to wear a wrap cardigan and disguise these areas is to avoid too many "fattening" garments and style it correctly.

So if you struggle with one or more of these problem areas then I recommend you to follow one (or more) of these styling strategies:

Courtesy of Macy's

Wear it open and leave out wrapping it with a belt. This vertical and waterfall'ish draping make the eye go up and down - streamlining your upper body, and it'll also make people think that there is a lean figure hiding in there!
Wear a dark colored top underneath it
Draw the eye up to your face and shoulder line with makeup (make your eyes pop), long necklace or a pair of nice earrings. Or simply wear accessories that highlight your best assets!

Fashion advice for short gals

This pointer is the most relevant for Petites :-)

Like tops and dresses - if you're short (5'4 or under) - you need the right cardigan length that complements your height and small proportions. Taller women can handle drapey, long cardigans better than shorter gals - exactly because they have more canvas to work on.

So make sure to select a wrap cardigan that:

Courtesy of Lulu's

Ends at least 2-3 inches above your knees - shorter is even better. Yes - even the cropped cardigan in a light color helps your limbs and upper body look leaner and longer!
Has details and textures that harmonize with your body scale. For example, if you're thin-boned opt for delicate details, medium if you're Plus Size. Never go for the humongous ones.
Has a lean and waterfall draping

Another styling trick is to wrap the draping together to make it look smaller and put-together. If you still feel big in a wrap cardigan, simply wear a pair of heels to balance out your upper body.

More fashion advice on Sweaters:

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There are several ways to style an open cardigan - it depends on your personal style and what kind of "mood" you want to give your outfit. But here are two chic ideas on how to wear it:

Chic Wrap Cardigan Outfits

With a belt:

This can look trendy or classy - depending on the type of belt. A wide belt adds a whiff of edge as seen below. A skinny belt on the other hand makes the cardigan look sleeker and put together.

If you're worried about looking chunky in it then opt for a simple belt in a dark neutral - as light colors expand your waistline. If you want to tuck more of the fabric without looking too trendy - try a double-skinny belt!

How to wear an open wrap cardigan with a belt

Try:

Wear the wrap cardigan as a full sweater by wrapping the draping together with a belt or brooch. Add a fitted camisole in the color of the cardigan or in a neutral similar to your skin tone

Let the draping hang loosely and wrap a belt around the waist - showing off a little bit of the top (don't close the front completely)

Frame your top or accessory:

This look is very flowy and laid-back, perfect for lazy Sundays. It gives you an opportunity to show off your necklace or cool/pretty/trendy top.

Courtesy of Urban Outfitters and New York & Co
If you want to showcase a statement necklace make sure to wear it on a neutral top that contrasts with the color of the piece.

A wrap cardigan can really frame a nice top or blouse - but only if the sweater is in a simple neutral. Think basic as a canvas.

If you want to camouflage your tummy, I suggest selecting a print with a dark base paired with a cardigan in a dark neutral - it'll take inches off in an instant!

More styling tips:

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Shop Wrap Cardigans Online

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