The 14 Best Cardigans of 2023
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These all-season cardigans are perfect for layering.
Travel + Leisure / Brian Kopinski
Cardigans are misunderstood. What was once strictly reserved for bookish types has now been transformed into a full-blown wardrobe staple whether you’re packing for a trip or picking out a sensible yet stylish outfit to fend off excessive A/C in the office. Not all cardigans are created equally, however: some offer simple fabrics and minimal designs perfect for layering in transitional weather, while others add a more opulent, granny-chic (read: quiet luxury) aesthetic to any outfit. Looking at durable materials, overall value, and smart elements from pockets to built-in ventilation, we found the absolute best cardigans worth adding to your travel wardrobe.
Best Overall: Gap Shaker-stitch Boyfriend Cardigan
Why We Love It
We love the stylish, slouchy dropped shoulders.
What to Consider
The cotton stitch material might snag.
For a classic yet cozy cardigan, grab this highly versatile option from Gap that earned the top spot on our list. It features a wide V-neck that allows you to wear it slouched off your shoulder for a more laid-back look and its relaxed silhouette hits at the hip for just the right amount of coverage (however, you can also size up for an even more oversized look). The textured button front closure lends this cardigan a timeless look while the soft cotton shaker-stitch material will keep you nice and warm without overheating you. Colors like bright cobalt blue and neutral beige make it easy to style and dress up or down depending on where your travels take you.
Price at time of publish: $45
The Details: XXS to XXL | Cotton | Machine wash and lay flat to dry
Best Budget: SweatyRocks Women's Long Sleeve Knit Cardigan Sweater
Why We Love It
It comes in dozens of unique colors and textures.
What to Consider
It’s hand wash only.
This cropped knit V-neck cardigan is proof you don’t need to spend a ton to look expensive. The 22 patterns and color options from lilac purple mushrooms to dusty green make this cardigan as fun to shop for as it is to wear. Depending on the model you choose, it either comes in a chunky cable-knit fabric or an on-trend ribbed pattern — both of which are conducive to ultimate comfort and style. Its polyester and elastane material is both durable and stretchy to offer a wide range of motion that will easily allow you to reach into the overhead cabin on your flight.
Price at time of publish: $33
The Details: XS to XL | Polyester and elastane | Hand wash only
Best Designer: LaPointe Feather-Trimmed Metallic Knitted Cardigan
Why We Love It
The sleeves are some of the most unique we’ve seen in a cardigan.
What to Consider
The feathers might get in the way of everyday tasks.
If you’re looking to make a serious style statement with your cardigan, it doesn’t get more chic than LaPointe’s ostrich feather-trimmed knitted cardigan with a luxe metallic sheen. It features strategic sheer mesh cut-outs at the midriff and elbow that not only offer a sultry pop of skin or visual of your outfit underneath, but provide some much-needed ventilation in humid climates. It features a discreet hook fastening at the front, lending it an even more airy and dainty appeal. While it only comes in one color, we love that it’s a muted charcoal that’ll pair perfectly with everything in your closet, making it the ideal top layer for any dressier occasions you’ve got on your travel itinerary.
Price at time of publish: $1,450
The Details: XS to L | Viscose and polyester | Dry clean only
Related: The 10 Best Wool Sweaters of 2023
Best Open Front: Spanx AirEssentials Cocoon Cardigan
Why We Love It
Its long length gives your outfit a more polished look.
What to Consider
It only comes in two colors and it tends to sell out quickly.
Sometimes a cardigan doesn’t need the extra bulk associated with buttons or zippers. That’s what makes this airy cocoon cardigan so easy to wear, pack, and store. It’s made with the brand’s light-as-air modal blend fabric that’ll have you feeling like you’re wrapped in a warm cocoon without suffocating you, plus it comes with handy deep pockets ideal for storing small items. Four-way stretch makes it a joy to wear all day and it features a drapey silhouette that covers your bottom for a put-together, polished look.
Price at time of publish: $148
The Details: XS to 3X | Modal, polyester and elastane | Machine-wash cold on a gentle cycle.
Best Oversized: Theory Boxy Elbow Patch Cardigan
Why We Love It
It’s made of luxurious materials that will withstand the test of time.
What to Consider
You’ll likely be able to find a similar look for a fraction of the price (albeit with cheaper fabrics).
Now that the oversized cardigan look is en vogue, you can feel totally on-trend on your flight while still feeling like you showed up in your comfiest pajamas. Lending an edgy appeal to the cardigan is a color-blocked suede elbow patch that also prevents wear-and-tear if you tend to battle it out on the armrest with your flight seatmate. Its ribbed cuffs and hem, plunging V-neck, and drop shoulders offer a perfectly boxy yet slouchy look. It features deep hip pockets to keep your essentials close at hand and is made of a luxurious lambskin wool and cashmere blend to keep you warm throughout your flight or day of walking tours.
Price at time of publish: $395
The Details: S to L | Wool and cashmere | Professional leather clean only
Related: The 18 Best Sweaters for Men of 2023
Best Cropped: Madewell Crinkled Cardigan
Why We Love It
It comes pre-crinkled, so it’s ideal for throwing in your carry-on without needing to worry about wrinkles.
What to Consider
We wish it came in more colors.
Cropped cardigans have a way of making us feel like we’re covering just what needs shielding from the wind or A/C without looking frumpy or adding unnecessary bulk to our outfits (and limited luggage space). What makes this cropped sweater a true winner for your travels is its crinkly material that’s made to look slightly disheveled and lived-in without the need to pull out your hotel’s clunky hot iron. It hits just between the belly button and hip for a perfect pairing with your favorite high-waisted jeans or leggings and is made of a low-maintenance yet stretchy polyester and elastane material you’ll want to live in.
Price at time of publish: $62
The Details: XXS to XXL | Polyester and elastane | Machine wash
Best Floor-length: Cu4eve Long Open Front Cardigan
Why We Love It
The floor length instantly dresses up an outfit.
What to Consider
It’s a bit bulky and may take up more space in a suitcase or carry-on.
Whether you’re looking for a little (or a lot of) extra coverage or simply love the elegant and dressy look of a floor-length cardigan, this top-rated and affordable option is a great bet. It comes in 14 versatile colors from neutral beige to flirty pink, plus it’s equipped with deep pockets for storing your essentials on long flights and road trips. The contrast between the chunky cable-knit texture and ribbed hemlines makes for a visually interesting top layer that’ll keep you cozy too. The addition of spandex in the polyester material makes it feel like a stretchy blanket made uniquely for your body. Its open-concept pull-on closure will allow your outfit to take center stage.
Price at time of publish: $38
The Details: S to XXL | Polyester and spandex | Hand-wash only
Best Chunky: J.Crew Cable-Knit Cardigan Sweater
Why We Love It
It features elegant hardware for an upscale touch.
What to Consider
Its polyamide material might feel stiff.
For a full-body hug on a chilly fall night or overly crisp airport, look no further than this chunky cable-knit cardigan sweater from J.Crew. Its sophisticated gold-toned buttons lend the chunky look a more luxe feel and it features a unique cable-knit pattern with plenty of texture. It hits slightly above the hip for a length that’s neither too long nor overly cropped. While its polyamide material provides durability and structure to the cardigan, it also lends it a waterproof and quick-drying feel that’ll fare well under everything from coffee spills to light drizzles.
Price at time of publish: $138
The Details: XXXS to 3X | Polyamide and lambswool | Hand wash only
Related: The 13 Best Versatile Sweaters and Sweatshirts for Women in 2023
Best Short-sleeve: BP. Pointelle Tie Front Short Sleeve Cardigan
Why We Love It
It features a cute and dainty tie closure.
What to Consider
Its two color options are very similar – we wish there were more to choose from.
For those moments during your travels when you only need a light layer to cover your shoulders, consider this adorable cropped short-sleeve cardigan with an on-trend single tie closure that allows your tank to peek out from beneath. It features a vintage lace-like pointelle fabric that at once adds a retro vibe to your outfit while promoting ventilation. It comes in both creamy white and muted green, which are both easy to pair with anything else you’ve packed, from baggy jeans to skorts. As a T-shirt, it’ll take up far less space in your carry-on than a bulky long-sleeve.
Price at time of publish: $49
The Details: XXS to XL | Cotton | Machine-wash and dry flat
Best with Pockets: Zara Knit Bomber Cardigan With Metallic Thread
Why We Love It
It comes with a zip closure, which is convenient and provides a streamlined look.
What to Consider
It’s only available in one color.
Bombers are the bomb since their subtly elevated collar and puffier sleeves create an effortlessly edgy vibe. For ultimate convenience on your travels, grab this version from Zara with functional yet discreet front welt side pockets and a zip closure that looks as sleek zipped all the way up as it does worn wide open. It comes in a metallic gray hue that’s easy to pair with a range of bottoms, and also gives it a surprisingly modern and futuristic look.
Price at time of publish: $70
The Details: S to XL | Polyamide and polyester | Machine wash on a delicate cycle
Best Soft: Reformation Fantino Cashmere Collared Cardigan
Why We Love It
It features a dressy collar for added style points.
What to Consider
It’s dry clean only, so be careful not to stain it while traveling.
Cashmere is widely known as the gold standard when it comes to super soft materials, which is why this recycled cashmere (with a dash of virgin cashmere for good measure) makes for such a cozy option. Not only is it a carbon-neutral, sustainable wardrobe option, but its spread collar gives it the unique appearance of a dressy button-down shirt with the bonus of layering possibilities thanks to its relaxed and oversized fit. It features a trendy ribbed texture that also serves as flattering stripes that draw the eye downward and it comes in neutral hues that provide limitless styling options.
Price at time of publish: $298
The Details: XS to XL | Recycled cashmere and cashmere | Dry clean
Related: The 13 Best Cashmere Sweaters of 2023
Best Everyday: Old Navy Cropped Cardigan Sweater
Why We Love It
It features an on-trend cropped silhouette.
What to Consider
It might be too fitted if you’re looking to layer, so consider sizing up.
For a chic yet functional cardigan you won’t need to think twice about throwing into your carry-on or over your shoulders, look to this affordable best-selling sweater from Old Navy. It comes in several fun colors from auburn red to lime yellow-green, three sizing categories including regular, tall, and petite, and has ribbed hems and cuffs which add an interesting texture. A full-length buttoned front gives it that classic cardigan look, plus its fabric is an ideal blend of soft, stretchy, and durable for an active trip.
Price at time of publish: $37
The Details: XS to 4X | Cotton, polyester, nylon and spandex | Machine wash cold on a gentle cycle
Best Sustainable: Cuyana Single-Origin Cashmere Cardigan
Why We Love It
It oozes quiet elegance with its neutral color options and dainty button closure.
What to Consider
If you’re looking for a pop of color, this cardigan isn’t for you.
Shopping sustainably is a solid way to promote the longevity and well-being of our planet, and this sustainable cashmere cardigan offers a smart way to be a part of the change. It’s made with a buttery-soft 100 percent single-origin cashmere fabric sourced from a single Inner Mongolian plateau and certified by the Responsible Cashmere Standard for responsible treatment of animals. Beyond its planet-friendly properties, it features a wide boat neck for extra ventilation, ribbed detailing, dainty slits at the hip and wrist, and a delicate button closure that can be worn either in front or in back for a surprising look. Four neutral color options make it easy to style and wear every day of your travels.
Price at time of publish: $248
The Details: XS to XL | Cashmere | Hand wash cold or dry clean
Best Cashmere: Banana Republic Alex Oversized Lightweight Cardigan
Why We Love It
It’s lightweight, soft, and manufactured according to sustainable practices.
What to Consider
It might be hard to care for as it’s dry clean only.
There’s nothing cozier than an oversized borrowed-from-the-boys-style cardigan, especially in a cashmere fabric this soft. It features two deep pockets perfect for storing your essentials in transit, a dramatic deep V-neck for a classic layered look, a classic button-down closure, and a relaxed below-the-hip length for extra coverage. Neutral hues like coffee brown and heather gray make it a dream to style. Its 100 percent cashmere fabric is Good Cashmere Standard certified, which guarantees the welfare of animals, natural resources and farmers involved in its production process.
Price at time of publish: $180
The Details: XXS to XXL | Cashmere | Dry clean
Tips for Buying the Perfect Cardigan
Consider your destination
For colder destinations, you’ll want your cardigan to offer as much coverage and insulation as possible. Look for higher necklines, long hemlines that fall below the hip, and long sleeves to make you more comfortable. In hotter climates, feel free to opt for short-sleeve cardigans and materials with perforations or breathable mesh patches for added ventilation.
Look at different lengths
If you love a good pair of high-waisted trousers, shorts, skirts, or leggings, consider a cropped cardigan to highlight your waist and show off the rest of your outfit. If you’re looking for more coverage and warmth, opt for below-the-hip lengths.
Choose a versatile material
You can’t go wrong with breathable and moisture-wicking cotton in any climate, since it’s warm when you need it to be and cooling when the temperature calls for it. Look for the addition of spandex and elastane in your cardigan for extra stretch that’ll assist with range of motion during active trips. If you’re in for a more leisurely trip, opt for a luxurious material like cashmere that’s super soft and lightweight.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I wear with a cardigan?
Cardigans are some of the most versatile travel wardrobe staples out there, so you can pair them with virtually anything in your closet. The best part about a cardigan is that you don’t need to wear it in the traditional sense: throw it over your shoulders and tie the sleeves together at the front for a preppy look, wrap it around your waist when not in use, or wear it open or closed depending on your style and temperature preferences.
How do I fold and pack a cardigan?
Fold and pack a cardigan the way you would a traditional shirt. First, lay it on its back and smooth out any wrinkles. Bring both ends of the closure together (you can button or zip it, or simply connect the two sides). Then, fold in one side of the cardigan to create the shape of a rectangle, and fold in just the shoulder segment of the sleeve. Then, fold that sleeve again at a downward angle so it aligns with the flank of the cardigan. Repeat on the other side. Fold the whole cardigan in half, ensuring you leave a 1-inch gap at the top. Fold it again in thirds resulting in a neat little pile that’ll take up minimal space in your suitcase.
Why Trust Travel + Leisure
T+L contributor Marissa Miller has been writing fashion content, covering fashion shows, and obsessively researching fashion and the best deals on the latest trends for the last dozen years. For this article, she touched on personal experience and scoured the internet to determine this list of the best cardigans.
Related: The 9 Best Fisherman Sweaters for Women
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