As fall approaches, layering pieces such as cardigan sweaters are pulling us back into their orbit. Rooted in practicality and function, this sweater style is a wardrobe must-have.
“The classic cardigan is the ultimate in versatility — it can be dressed up, dressed down, layered, and is always grab-and-go ready,” stylist and knitwear expert Elizabeth Kosich tells PEOPLE.
Whether you’re shopping for that perfect timeless cardigan or want to add a trendy knit to your fall wardrobe, you don’t need to spend hundreds of dollars to find a high-quality and stylish cardigan sweater. We researched a variety of budget-friendly knitwear styles for the best cardigans under $75 — here are our top picks.
You don’t need to spend more than $75 to get a stylish and high-quality cardigan. The Amazon Essentials Women’s Lightweight Crewneck Cardigan Sweater has a traditional fitted style that is casual enough for everyday outfits yet still provides a finishing touch to elevated ensembles for the office or date night.
The cardigan costs less than $25, is constructed from a breathable, soft, and comfortable blend of cotton, modal, and polyester, and comes in dozens of colors, including classics like heather gray and black, as well as fun pops of color like mustard and cobalt blue.
Size Range: XS-6X | Colors: 26 | Material: Cotton, modal, polyester
Cozy and comfortable, a chunky knit cardigan is kind of like wearing your favorite blanket out — only much more stylish and, well, publicly acceptable. Our top pick for the best chunky knit cardigan is the Remikstyt Chunky Cardigan from Amazon. This sweater is constructed from durable heavyweight yarn with a handmade feel, great for anyone leaning into the cottagecore aesthetic.
While it doesn’t have buttons, the open cardigan has an oversized fit that covers the body and provides enough warmth — pair it with a comfy pair of fleece-lined leggings and some Dr. Martens. Available in stunning earth-tone hues like army green, navy, and white, the $46 cardigan is available on Prime for quick delivery.
Size Range: S-XL | Colors: 10 | Material: Acrylic yarn
Finding a 100 percent organic cotton cardigan for under $75 isn’t always possible; however, the Quince 100% Organic Cotton Oversized Cardigan is available for around $50, which is honestly impressive. This sweater is constructed from Oeko-Tex 100 certified organic cotton, features an oversized silhouette and a textured rib knit, and comes in over 12 different colors, including staples like black and ivory as well as pops of color from dark red to blue.
Additionally, the cardigan features two large pockets at the front that are fully functional and comfortably placed so you can store your phone and keys in them, but also use them to keep your hands warm when an unexpected fall breeze hits.
Size Range: XS-XL | Colors: 12 | Material: Oeko-Tex 100 certified organic cotton
We can always count on Old Navy to put an affordable yet still high-quality spin on our favorite fashion pieces, and this textured long-line open-front cardigan is no exception. Constructed from an ultra-soft cotton, cellulose, and nylon blend, the open cardigan features two simple yet stylish front pockets that are functional and offer a touch of design detail.
In addition to its looks and how it feels, the cardigan sweater comes in a gorgeous neutral oatmeal hue. Plus, it has an inclusive size range that includes plus, petite, and tall options. Style it with a pair of your favorite leggings.
Size Range: XS-4X (regular, petite, tall) | Colors: 1 | Material: 55% cotton, 30% Livaeco by Birla Cellulose, 15% nylon
You can’t go wrong with a classic. The Forever Cardigan from the Banana Republic Factory boasts a timeless V-neck shape with button placket detailing, slouchy drop shoulders, and ribbed cuffs. Constructed from cotton and Birla LivaECO, which is a type of viscose, the cardigan is lightweight and breathable, making it a good layering option for transitional seasons, the office, or even for lounging at home.
It has a casual silhouette as well as an overall smart texture and design so you can dress it up or down. You can also wear it multiple ways — either buttoned up and tucked into work trousers for a blouse-like feel or open for a more casual look.
Size Range: XXS-XL, petite sizes | Colors: 7 | Material: Cotton, Birla LivaECO
A long cardigan — especially a heavy knit one — can replace a lightweight jacket for a cozier feel. We chose the Eloquii Long Belted Cardigan as our top pick for this category because it’s constructed from a super soft and heavy knit blend of acrylic, polyester, and nylon and is the perfect layer for chilly fall days.
Size Range: 14-32 | Colors: 3 | Material: 39% polyester, 33% recycled polyester, 19% acrylic, 9% nylon
With the return of early 2000s style, the fitted cardigan has also made a comeback. With tons of styling options, Everlane’s The Ribbed Cropped Cardigan is constructed from a lightweight and breathable viscose and nylon material that allows it to be worn as a long-sleeve top as well as an open cardigan sweater (styled with a matching camisole tank underneath and a pair of baggy cargo pants, if you’re wanting to channel Y2K, of course).
Size Range: XXS-XL | Colors: 1 | Material: 65% viscose, 35% recycled nylon
Speaking of ‘00s style, the shrug is back — and it’s more versatile than you think. We love this option from Amazon because it comes in 12 different colors, including neutrals like black and gray and bolder colors like pink, purple, and green. Just pull it on over a fitted top or cami for instant sleeves. And another plus: It’s machine washable.
Size Range: S-XL | Colors: 12 | Material: 50% viscose, 30% polyamide, 20% polyester
This Banana Republic Factory cardigan just exudes chicness. And if you can grab one when it’s on sale, it’s a win. It works well as an everyday cardigan or something you can dress up for professional or dressier occasions. It comes in classic black, and the relaxed fit offers comfort without feeling restrictive. Just size down one size if you’re after a more fitted look.
Size Range: XXS-XL | Colors: 1 | Material: 54% cotton, 24% nylon, 17% polyester, 5% wool
This elegant long cardigan from Amazon Essentials is available in 20 colors at an excellent price, making it easy to add a few to your wardrobe. Crafted from a soft, lightweight cotton blend, it’s comfortable and easy to wear. The open front design coupled with ribbed detailing at the hem and cuffs adds a bit of sophistication to this sweater. Hitting around mid-thigh, this versatile cardigan is perfect for casual and dressy occasions, making it a practical addition to any closet.
Size Range: XS-6X | Colors: 20 | Material: 55% cotton, 25% modal, 20% polyester
This super soft cardigan from Gap is a soon-to-be favorite. It has a crewneck, is slightly cropped, and is lightweight enough for every season. Made of a blend of cotton, polyester, and nylon, this cardigan is machine-washable. The classic cardigan has long sleeves and a button front and sits just below the waist. The fabric is super breathable, so it’s comfortable to wear under layers or on its own. This sweater comes in five colors and sizes XXS through XXL.
Size Range: XXS-XXL | Colors: 5 | Material: 55% cotton, 25% polyester, 20% nylon
This delicate purl knit cardigan from Forever 21 features a chic V-neckline and a classic button front. Available in soft, pale neutrals lilac and birch, it boasts a modern cropped hem and relaxed, dropped peasant sleeves. The gathered stitch pattern adds a polished touch, while the draped silhouette gives a laid-back vibe. Perfect for layering, this cardigan effortlessly elevates any outfit, whether paired with dresses or jeans and a t-shirt.
Size Range: M-XL | Colors: 2| Material: 49% polyester, 46% acrylic, 5% wool
This slim-fitting cardigan from Abercrombie & Fitch has a sleek modern look thanks to the glossy knit fabric. This ribbed sweater is available in four colors and has a button front. It also features unique details like extra long sleeves and side slits at the sleeves and hem. This lightweight cardigan would make a perfect layering sweater for chilly days, or an ideal single layer when there’s a slight chill in the air.
Size Range: XXS-XL | Colors: 4 | Material: 77% viscose, 23% nylon
Enhance your sweater game with this front zip cardigan from Mango. The lightweight ribbed cardigan has a shirt-style collar, long sleeves, and a straight hem. Made of a viscose blend, this is the perfect sweater for fall or layered for winter. The stylish, slim-fitting cardigan can be worn open or closed, and the light color is a great neutral shade. Wear it over dresses or with jeans or slacks, this versatile cardigan goes with just about everything.
Size Range: XS-XL | Colors: |1 Material: 50% viscose 28% polyester 22% polyamide
This 100% organic cotton cardigan is the essence of cozy. Soft and oversized, it’s easy to wrap yourself in this luxurious sweater. It has a fisherman stitch, cuffed sleeves, and a V-neckline with buttons down the front. Available in eight colors, including classics like ivory and black, this boyfriend cardigan is the perfect complement to a pair of cozy jeans and sneakers. It’s also the ideal comfy sweater to snuggle in at home.
Size Range: XS-XL | Colors: 8 | Material: 100% organic cotton
What to Know About Cardigans
Fibers
When shopping for a cardigan, Kosich says to look for tightly knit, high-quality fibers to avoid pilling. “Pilling is caused by short fibers that loosen, breathe, and tangle over time; higher quality fibers have longer strands that, when knit tightly together, mitigate wear, tear, and pilling,” she explains. “For chunkier knits, go with blended fibers to help prevent pilling.”
Material also matters when it comes to providing the right amount of warmth. If you tend to run hot, Kosich says to look for a mix of natural and synthetic fibers to keep you from overheating. The Old Navy Textured Long-Line Open-Front Sweater for Women is a good option for those who run hot since it is created from yarn constructed from cotton, polyester, and nylon.
Colors
Colors are also important to consider when shopping because this will allow you to maximize the overall versatility of a cardigan. “Go for your most reliable neutral, picking a cardigan that matches pants for a head-to-toe color column that elongates,” says Kosich. She also recommends looking for your strongest accent hue “for a less serious and fun pop of color.”
If you’re not sure where to begin, the Amazon Essentials Women’s Lightweight Crewneck Cardigan Sweater is a timeless budget-friendly option that comes in 26 different colors. The Banana Republic Factory Forever Cardigan is another excellent option as it comes in several classic neutrals plus more playful hues.
Room to Grow
Looking at the size and fit of a cardigan is also important because, Kosich says “knitwear grows over time,” a.k.a. stretches with regular wear. Drop shoulders will continue dropping and oversized silhouettes risk becoming even more oversized, so choosing a size that fits you well and has some room to grow is best.
Stitch Types
Cardigans come in a variety of stitch types, so it’s also important to think about your preferences while searching for the best cardigan for your wardrobe. “Cable-knitted cardigans are trending right now thanks to the thick and chunky look they create,” says Klara Nilsson, a knitwear expert and founder of Knitting Knowledge. “Meanwhile, a classic stockinette stitch results in a thinner fabric that is ideal for a more Audrey Hepburn look styled with a pair of slacks and flats,” she adds, noting that the thinner cardigan will more likely stand the test of time and the trend cycle.
The good news is you don’t need to invest a ton of money to go trendy or classic. The budget-friendly Amazon Essentials Women’s Lightweight Crewneck Cardigan Sweater is a lightweight and timeless style for under $25, while the Remikstyt Chunky Cardigan boasts a handmade look for less than $50.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Where can you get high-quality cardigans?
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What are the best cardigan colors to buy?
“Black, navy, and off-white are all colors that will provide you the most options for pairing with your current wardrobe,” says Anya Cole, founder of HaniaNew York, a handmade luxury knitwear brand. That being said, Nilsson says to not stray away from the trends, especially when looking at under $75 options that meet your budget and aren’t a major investment.
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Are cardigans professional?
“It all depends on the style of your cardigan and the formality of your office,” says Nilsson. If you’re looking at a super chunky or cropped cardigan, Nilsson says it’s likely not an appropriate choice for a professional office environment. “However, a light cardigan with fine stitchwork, a full-length silhouette, and a muted color is definitely office-appropriate, especially on top of a turtleneck or shirt,” she explains.
When choosing a cardigan for a smart or business casual dress code, Nilsson says to think about how you can style the cardigan and what you can pair it with to elevate the look. “Try combining it with dressy trousers, a blouse or a polo shirt, and smart shoes if you’re concerned about looking too casual.”
Why Trust PEOPLE?
Jessie Quinn is a contributing commerce writer for PEOPLE and has written for publications such as Byrdie, InStyle, The Spruce, NYLON, and more. As a fiber artist and crocheter, Jessie has a special place in her fashion heart for cardigans and appreciates all different styles, especially the oversized chunky knits. When researching the best cardigans, Jessie leaned on her own fashion and fiber craft knowledge and also reached out to knitwear and style experts Anya Cole, Klara Nilsson, and Elizabeth Kosich for their insights on what to look for in cardigans. She also considered material, fit, and style, as well as the nitty gritty things like stitch type to curate a list of the best cardigans. PEOPLE Senior Commerce Editor Erika Reals also contributed to this piece, adding in additional products that she owns herself, are highly rated, or come recommended by other editors.
Our Expert Panel
- Elizabeth Kosich is a stylist and knitwear expert.
- Anya Cole is the founder of HANIA New York, a handmade luxury knitwear brand.
- Klara Nilsson is a knitwear expert and founder of Knitting Knowledge.