It was a long road, but we've made it: Welcome to the official start of cardi season. Before you start thinking about the thick, chunky cardigans everyone typically gravitates toward at the start of fall, this here is a bit different. We're finally at the point in spring when the temperature varies drastically between the time you leave the house and the time the sun goes down. Basically, the weather is indecisive AF, so that's where a lightweight cardigan comes in. Consider it akin to a summer jacket—appropriate for every stage of wacky spring weather that comes your way.
Lately, thinner cardigans have been making big waves on our feeds, where we've noticed them styled several different ways—whether draped over the shoulders, paired in a matching set, or (our favorite way) simply worn buttoned up as a top. There's plenty of versatility with this piece, which is why it's become such an essential as I beef up my spring wardrobe. Maybe you're looking to update your closet with a timeless basic or you just want to celebrate the arrival of warmer weather. Either way, scroll below to shop the 29 lightweight cardigans that get the fashion-editor seal of approval.
Cute, cropped, and less than $15.
A cable cardigan to jump-start your preppy wardrobe.
The pearl buttons are so delicate and pretty.
H&M keeps it coming with its vast selection of lightweight cardis.
Minty green surely refreshes the eyes.
In true Zara fashion, this looks so expensive.
Try a ruffled cardigan to dress up an otherwise boring pair of jeans.
Since appearing last year, asymmetric cardigans have popped up from a number of brands and designers. This one is constantly sold out, so get it while it's still in stock here.
Wear it as a top to punch up a satin slip skirt.
I have a thing for cheerful fruit prints, can you tell?
The trendiest way to pull off a cropped version is to style it with loose-fitting track pants or jeans.
This blue is so dreamy.
Bubblegum pink continues to rule this season.
Using fasteners instead of buttons creates a sleek, streamlined look.
The stripes feel oh so Parisienne.
The sheerness adds another dimension.
Because sooner or later, short sleeves will be the only sleeves acceptable in the hot weather.
How to pull off Lolita style without looking too saccharine.
This one comes in a range of sizes from XS to 3X.
Collared cardigans are having a bit of a moment.
The trail of big buttons is a cool, eye-catching detail that would look amazing with trousers.
There's so much versatility in a long-line cardigan. You can style it as a dress or leave the bottom half unopened and wear it as a dramatic top with pants.
I'm loving the '70s vibe.
Here's your fancy night-out cardi.
Tie-dye is a cool, fresh take.
Blingy jewels for when you're feeling fancy.
I'm so obsessed with the simple, classic styling of this outfit that you can't tell me anything.
Currently clicking "add to cart."
Definitely one of the coolest options on this list.
Stayed tuned for I'm a Fashion Editor, and These Are the 8 Spring Outfits I Dream About Daily.
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