Fashion
5 Things That Make a Cardigan Frumpy (Or Not)
This post may contain affiliate links and Corporette® may earn commissions for purchases made through links in this post. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
Are cardigans frumpy? What makes a cardigan look modern in 2026? Readers had a spirited discussion the other day, and I thought it deserved more discussion.
Are Cardigans Frumpy? My Take
My own take is that cardigans are usually utilitarian first and stylish second: they’re what many of us reach for when the office AC is blasting, not necessarily the thing making the outfit.
I love a good cardigan for coziness… but
- if you’re looking to add authority or polish, a blazer, sweater jacket, or lady jacket will usually get you there faster (I’ve linked to our latest roundups for all; I’ll also add our top picks below)
- if you want to look stylish, intentional styling matters much more with cardigans than with blazers
- if you want to look trendy, there’s definitely a very particular cardigan silhouette having a moment right now (longer, flared sleeves, softer structure, slightly cropped proportions)… this cardigan comes to mind…
- and yes, some cardigan trends are firmly in the past at this point (waterfall cardigans immediately come to mind) (pictured at top)
Five Things that Make a Cardigan Frumpy (or Not)
Structure
Ultimately I think that the more structure a cardigan has, the less frumpy it looks. Stronger shoulders, a defined placket, a heavier knit — all will be more stylish than a limp tissue-weight cardigan with no shape and droopy pockets. Jardigans, lady jackets, sweater blazers and schoolboy cardigans all excel here.
Proportion & Intention
A lot of times — especially if the cardigan is literally the one you keep at the office for when you’re cold — the proportions will look off. The sweater will be too long or short for the outfit, the wrong weight for the season, or the sleeves or collar will peek out of it in a funny way because you didn’t look in the mirror, you just threw it on because you were cold. And that’s fine! But.. all of those things contribute to that “frumpy” feeling.
Personally I find it really hard to wear a cardigan with a dress because the proportion always feels a bit off to me. I’ve liked this option from Nic & Zoe in the past, but I don’t think it’s winning any style awards.
Another problem: proportions have changed wildly in recent years; the cardigan you’re keeping at work may not be the best for those newer proportions. For example: wide legged pants look much better with shorter cardigans, whereas ankle pants look better with the longer cardigans we saw a few years ago.
Ultimately, a sweater that’s worn with intention (whether that’s draped over shoulders, buttoned as a top, styled monochromatically, or worn in place of a blazer — reads differently from “emergency cardigan because I’m cold.”
Fabric, Hardware, and other Details
Small details do a lot of heavy lifting with cardigans. An interesting pattern, a mixture of fabrics, a lush fabric, stylish buttons, cabled knit, etc — all of that can elevate a cardigan. Looking above at some of the more expensive cardigans we’ve posted recently, you can see how the small details really do elevate it. I’d say there’s also an element of intention to all of them, at least as styled.
Dated Cardigan Trends
Like I mentioned above, some cardigan trends are definitely in the past. (To be fair, almost every silhouette eventually has its moment in the wilderness, at least temporarily.) Some examples from our own archives…
- waterfall cardigans feel very dated to me
- I still wear my Circle cardigans (so cozy!) but they’re more of an “around the house” kind of thing
- oof the shawl neckline
- honestly I’m still wearing longer cardigans like the fourth striped one also — but they’re a neutral color and I’m not trying to make any style statements with them
Comparison Points
If someone says a cardigan is frumpy, what are they comparing it to?
For example, I know a lot of readers in the past have said that they keep fleece jackets at the office in case they’re cold — I’d still argue that a cardigan is a better option than that, but know your office (and your style). A cardigan may not earn fashion points compared to a blazer, but compared to the office fleece? It’s still doing pretty well.
So Can I Wear Classic Cardigans or Not in 2026?
For example, the ones that look like these:
My answer: YES, absolutely, whether as an integral part of your outfit or the cardigan you keep at work. But:
- keep a full-length mirror in your office so you can check out how your outfit looks with the cardigan if it’s one you keep at the office
- cardigans (particularly 100% cotton ones) can get stretched out pretty easily — so don’t forget to launder it
- really think about styling the cardigan and how it fits proportionally with the other clothes you’re wearing
Ultimately, I think you need to distinguish “practical wardrobe workhorse” from “style trendsetter.” Some of the trendier cardigan silhouettes (cough, extra-long flared sleeves or cropped styles) may not work for every office or every working woman… but nobody would call them frumpy. (At least, not in 2026.)
Meanwhile, the classic cardigan remains a classic precisely because it’s so practical: easy to keep at the office, throw in your bag, layer over a blazer, or pull on when the conference room AC is set to “arctic tundra.” And yes, some classic cardigans can absolutely look chic, polished, or modern, especially when the proportions, styling, and fabric feel intentional.
But let’s be honest: many of us are also wearing them because chattering teeth tend to interrupt workflow.
And honestly? That’s fine too.
Readers, what cardigan styles feel current to you? Which ones feel dated?
Our Favorite Third Pieces If You Don’t Want to Wear a Cardigan
Sweater Blazers
Blazer as a Separate
Lady Jackets
Some of our latest favorite lady jackets for work in 2026 still include knit jackets such as those from ba&sh, MMLF, or Boden… but in general the style has gotten much more structured, closer to a Chanel-style jacket for work. On the budget side of things, check out J.Crew, Tuckernuck (XXS-XXXL), J.Crew Factory, and Ann Taylor… on the splurgey side check out L’Agence, Veronica Beard, St. John, and (of course!) Chanel.
Chanel-Style Jackets
Fashion
Zendaya Wore a Red Ernesto Naranjo Gown and a Black Christian Cowan Fringe Dress on the Spider-Man: Brand New Day Promotional Tour in Spain
Zendaya brought her signature fashion flair to Spain as she embarked on the promotional tour for her highly anticipated film, Spider-Man: Brand New Day, delivering two memorable red carpet looks styled by her longtime collaborator Law Roach.
For the Spain Photocall, the actress wore a red Ernesto Naranjo gown, accessorized with Stefere jewelry and a Rolex watch. The sleek halterneck silhouette in a bold crimson hue made for a striking appearance against the film’s backdrop.
For a separate appearance on the tour, Zendaya opted for a black Christian Cowan strapless fringe gown, pairing the dramatic look with black pointed-toe pumps and drop earrings.
Both looks are bomb, but which is your fave?
Photo Credit: Getty Images
This post may contain affiliate links and Corporette® may earn commissions for purchases made through links in this post. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
If you’ve been looking for a solution for ridged nails – or just like a quick-drying “your nails but better” look, I’ve been liking this nail strengthened and polish from Manicurust.
I feel like the color is perfect, and it dries in under 5 minutes. I’ve been meaning to compare it against my old favorite years ago, Nail Envy – can anyone speak to which is better?
The nail polish is $19 at Sephora, Ulta, and Manicurist.com.
Looking for healthy nail treatments? Readers love Burt’s Bees lemon butter cuticle cream, CND Solar Nail & Cuticle Cream, OPI Nail Envy, Deborah Lippmann’s The Cure Ultra Nourishing Cuticle Repair Cream, Lush Lemony Flutter, Dior Creme Abricot, and Sally Hansen’s cuticle massage creme.
Sales of note for 6/12:
- Another Tomorrow – Seasonal sale, 50% off select styles
- Ann Taylor – Last day 6/12: Extra 60% off sale! Readers love this blouse and I always love the variety of colors/textures for this jacket (it’s a great separate)
- Athleta – 40% off tees, dresses, tanks, linen, and swim
- AYR – Ooh, good sale section — but lots on final sale. Readers love (LOVE) these comfy work pants and these jeans.
- Bare Necessities – Semi-annual sale, up to 60% off, plus get an additional 40% off clearance swim. Readers have sung the praises of these cooling pajamas and their bra-sized swimwear
- Boden – 15% off new women’s wear styles with code
- Glossier – 20-25% off almost everything (including subscriptions!)
- J.Crew – 50% off tops, dresses, skirts and more
- J.Crew Factory – Extra 50% off clearance + extra 20% off 3+ styles
- Jenni Kayne – Semi-annual warehouse sale
- Loft – 50% off everything + free shipping
- M.M.LaFleur– This weekend only, 25% off jardigans (Try code CORPORETTE15 for 15% off on other items)
- Nordstrom – 6900+ new markdowns added – nice selection from Boss, Vince, Veronica Beard, Theory, Beyond Yoga, and Zella
- Nordstrom Rack – Clearance, new arrivals up to 75% off! Nice selection of Vince, Veronica Beard, Reiss and Rag & Bone, a ton of affordable work basics from Calvin Klein and dresses from Maggy London, Eliza J, and Donna Morgan
- Talbots – Tons of markdowns, extra 60% off 2+, 50% off one
This post may contain affiliate links and Corporette® may earn commissions for purchases made through links in this post. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
I was looking through some of the archives (deindexing, yay!) and an old suit jumped out to me that was a combination of black, brown, and orange details. As someone raised in Cleveland, this is not an unusual color combination to see… but it still struck me as a color combo that worked independently, also. And I started thinking — what unusual color combinations just work? How often do you wear color with color in general? What color combinations do people keep TRYING to make happen, but just don’t work?
(Pictured above: J.Crew’s puff sleeve sweatshirt.)
Unusual Color Combinations that Work for Outfits
Olive & Anything
When I saw this homepage at J.Crew a few weeks ago, I snapped a screenshot — after years (and YEARS) of beige-on-beige as the inspiration, it was so unusual to see a major brand celebrating color. We’ve often talked about how olive green is a hidden powerhouse for work outfits — but I wouldn’t have thought to put together any of these combinations together, and certainly not so boldly. Chartreuse and olive! Bright violet and olive! Lipstick red and olive! I think they all work, though.
Mocha and Red
Boden often features really fun color combinations, and this beige sweater that we featured a while ago looks great with the red pants. (I actually used to wear red with brown and a friend thought it was very unusual — thoughts?)
Mint and Purple
Similarly, I think that it’s surprising how well mint works with purple, as you can see with these Boden heels that we featured a while ago.
Burgundy and Light Blue
I’ve always been a huge fan of this combination, and I’ve done it with a lot of shades fo red and a lot of shades of blue. I’ve always thought the softness of the blue balances the richness of the burgundy in a way that feels both classic and modern.
Readers, what are your favorite unusual color combinations that just work?
Psst: here’s how to wear black with navy.
Refresh your shoe rotation with the latest XYLondon Women’s Footwear Collection. Designed for those who value the perfect blend of trend-led aesthetics and everyday comfort, this collection features everything from sleek, high-shine flats to sophisticated kitten-heel mules. Whether you are aiming to elevate a casual daytime look or add a polished finish to your evening attire, XYLondon offers versatile silhouettes that move effortlessly with your schedule. Discover your next favorite pair and step out with confidence this season.
Shakira Slingback Buckle Strappy Flat Sandals in Silver Metallic — Shop Now
Katherine Square Toe Stiletto Kitten Heel Mule Sandals in Black Faux Suede — Shop Now
Tiana Slip On Mid Kitten Heel Mules Square Toe Heeled Sandals in Gold Metallic — Shop Now
Lizzie Open Toe Mid Block Heel Strappy Sandals in Nude Patent — Shop Now
Daphne Slingback Strappy Low Block Heel Sandal Square Toe Court Shoes in Silver Glitter — Shop Now
For any questions/feedback regarding the above mentioned products/brands,
please do contact us anytime by clicking here
Elevate your accessory game with our exclusive Philip Jones Jewellery Sets collection, now available with savings of up to 50% off. Known for blending timeless elegance with everyday versatility, Philip Jones offers meticulously crafted pieces that make for the perfect gift whether you are treating yourself or a loved one. From shimmering Zircondia® crystal-adorned sliders to delicate gemstone sets, this collection features something for every style and occasion. Explore these beautifully packaged sets today and add a touch of luxe to your daily rotation for less.
Silver Plated Solitaire Friendship Slider Set Created with Zircondia® Crystals — Shop Now
Rose Gold Plated Pearl Drop Set Created with Zircondia® Crystals — Shop Now
Heart “Mum” Necklace and Earrings Set Created with Zircondia® Crystals — Shop Now
Sterling Silver Rose Quartz Gemstone Set — Shop Now
Sterling Silver March (Aquamarine) Birthstone Necklace & Earrings Set Created with Zircondia® Crystals — Shop Now
18k Gold Plated Solitaire Friendship Slider Set Created with Zircondia® Crystals — Shop Now
For any questions/feedback regarding the above mentioned products/brands,
please do contact us anytime by clicking here
Nili Lotan Top (also love the pants), Chan Luu Pants, Chanel Sandals & Bag
Some prints just feel nostalgic, and that is exactly what I love about the ones I keep reaching for this summer. Bandana motifs, paisley swirls, little boteh shapes, tiny florals, all of it has that worn-in, retro quality that makes even the easiest pieces feel special.
They remind me of summer camp, of the bandana tied around your neck or the hand-me-down print you wore until it softened. There is something about that faded, lived-in feeling that makes these patterns make so much sense for the season.
This post may contain affiliate links and Corporette® may earn commissions for purchases made through links in this post. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
Our daily workwear reports suggest one piece of work-appropriate attire in a range of prices.
I hate paying for shipping, especially international shipping, but this jacket from The Fold London is making me lose my resolve. The blouson sleeves are so chic, and the slightly boxy fit looks both elegant and effortless. I could see myself wearing this with trousers, denim, midi skirts, or just about anything else in my closet.
The ivory color is a wool blend, but it also comes in navy in a “sculpt knit” that looks equally gorgeous.
The jacket is $365 at The Fold London and comes in sizes XS-XL.
Sales of note for 6/12:
- Another Tomorrow – Seasonal sale, 50% off select styles
- Ann Taylor – Last day 6/12: Extra 60% off sale! Readers love this blouse and I always love the variety of colors/textures for this jacket (it’s a great separate)
- Athleta – 40% off tees, dresses, tanks, linen, and swim
- AYR – Ooh, good sale section — but lots on final sale. Readers love (LOVE) these comfy work pants and these jeans.
- Bare Necessities – Semi-annual sale, up to 60% off, plus get an additional 40% off clearance swim. Readers have sung the praises of these cooling pajamas and their bra-sized swimwear
- Boden – 15% off new women’s wear styles with code
- Glossier – 20-25% off almost everything (including subscriptions!)
- J.Crew – 50% off tops, dresses, skirts and more
- J.Crew Factory – Extra 50% off clearance + extra 20% off 3+ styles
- Jenni Kayne – Semi-annual warehouse sale
- Loft – 50% off everything + free shipping
- M.M.LaFleur– This weekend only, 25% off jardigans (Try code CORPORETTE15 for 15% off on other items)
- Nordstrom – 6900+ new markdowns added – nice selection from Boss, Vince, Veronica Beard, Theory, Beyond Yoga, and Zella
- Nordstrom Rack – Clearance, new arrivals up to 75% off! Nice selection of Vince, Veronica Beard, Reiss and Rag & Bone, a ton of affordable work basics from Calvin Klein and dresses from Maggy London, Eliza J, and Donna Morgan
- Talbots – Tons of markdowns, extra 60% off 2+, 50% off one
This week’s Amazon Sunday is all about adding color to the kitchen. These cheerful, useful finds infuse the joy and energy of summer into the space where we gather most, especially as the season brings more casual meals, outdoor lunches, and easy entertaining.
I rounded up a mix of practical favorites and playful accents for the kitchen that brighten everyday routines without losing their purpose. From prepping and serving to the little touches that set the scene, these pieces bring a little extra joy to the everyday and make it all feel more inviting.
Browse the full selection below, and explore more in our JB Amazon Shop and Amazon Storefront, refreshed weekly.
Total Wireless Promo Codes & Deals: 50% Off Select Plans
“THEY All LIED! Everyone Is 100% WRONG About this Bitcoin Cycle” – Lyn Alden
‘I can’t listen to my sister Jo Cox speaking 10 years on – it’s too upsetting’ | News Politics
BloFin War of Whales 2026 Grand Prix opens registration for $5M trading championship
Blockchain.com files with SEC for U.S. IPO
Israel says it has killed new Hamas military leader in Gaza City airstrikes
“THEY All LIED! Everyone Is 100% WRONG About this Bitcoin Cycle” – Lyn Alden
OH MY GOD XRP… $4.7 QUADRILLION!!! (XRP BOOOM INCOMING?!)
Blessings In No Time – Marlon and LaShonda Moore – Fraud Fumble – Financial Advisor Reacts
-
Business2 days agoNo Jackpot Winner as $257 Million Prize Rolls Over to $269 Million Monday Draw
-
Crypto World5 days agoOppenheimer backs SpaceX as $70 billion retail frenzy builds
-
Crypto World5 days agoMarkets Rally as SpaceX IPO Looms Amid Iran Tensions and Inflation Surge
-
Fashion3 days agoWeekend Open Thread: Tuckernuck – Corporette.com
-
Crypto World1 day agoZimbabwe Requires Crypto Businesses to Register Annually Under New FIU Regulations
-
Entertainment7 days agoThe Ryan Gosling True Crime Thriller On Netflix That Gets Even Stranger, Stream It Now
-
Tech3 days agoNanoClaw integrates JFrog registries to secure AI agent downloads
-
Sports7 days agoBangladesh beat Australia after 20 years in ODIs, register only their second win over six-time world champions | Cricket News
-
Crypto World3 days agoBitget enters Argentina’s regulated crypto market through PSAV registration
-
Tech4 days agoThis Week In Security: Microsoft On Microsoft, Register Your Domains, Linux On ARM, And FreeBSD Joins The File Cache Club
-
Tech5 days agoDutton Ranch star claims they ‘didn’t see any disruption’ on set following Chad Feehan’s exit from Yellowstone spinoff fueled by Taylor Sheridan clash rumors
-
NewsBeat4 days agoEl Nino has formed in the Pacific and could set records, forecasters say
-
Politics5 days agoPolitics Home | Healey Resignation Is “Colossal Failure Of Government”, Says Former Labour Defence Secretary
-
Tech6 days ago‘This is Seattle’s position on AI’: City Council votes unanimously to pause big new data centers
-
Business6 days agoThailand Ranks Second Worldwide for AI Adoption Growth, Microsoft Reports
-
Entertainment5 days agoDonnie Wahlberg & More Heat Up Las Vegas at Circa’s Barry’s Downtown Prime
-
Sports5 days agoFirst Time Since 1971: Australia Register Historic Low In ODI Cricket
-
Tech5 days agoOpendoor Ends India Operations, Fueling a Bigger Conversation About AI and Outsourcing
-
Politics5 days agoBelfast burns, while Met chief points finger at Iran and Russia
-
Business5 days agoAT&T: Verizon's 27% Outperformance Sets Up A Solid Entry Point
You must be logged in to post a comment Login