How to Choose the Best Cardigan to Steal Celebrity Looks: A Complete Buyer's Guide

The "It-Girl" Essential

Gone are the days when cardigans were associated solely with librarians or grandmothers. Thanks to A-list celebrities and top fashion influencers, the humble cardigan has undergone a massive rebranding. It is now the ultimate symbol of "quiet luxury" and effortless chic.

From viral street style moments in New York to the curated feeds of Instagram's fashion elite, the cardigan is everywhere. But looking like a star isn't about spending thousands on a designer label; it's about choosing the right silhouette and styling it with confidence.

In this buyer's guide, we decode the most iconic celebrity looks and show you how to recreate them with pieces from our Cardigan Collection.

Celebrity Case Studies: 3 Iconic Looks

Let's break down three specific styles that have dominated the fashion headlines.

1. The "Viral Cashmere Set" (The Katie Holmes Effect)

A few years ago, actress Katie Holmes broke the internet by hailing a taxi while wearing a cashmere cardigan falling off her shoulder, revealing a matching cashmere bra.

• The Vibe: Sexy, cozy, and expensive-looking.

• How to Get It: Look for a relaxed-fit, V-neck cashmere cardigan in a neutral tone like oatmeal or grey.

• Buying Tip: Focus on texture. This look fails if the material looks cheap. Opt for our premium 100% Cashmere Cardigans to achieve that soft, slouchy drape.

2. The "Model Off-Duty" (The 90s Crop)

Supermodels like Bella Hadid and Kendall Jenner often favor a more retro aesthetic.

• The Vibe: Youthful, nostalgic, and figure-hugging.

• How to Get It: Choose a cropped, fitted cardigan. Button just the top one or two buttons and leave the bottom open to show a sliver of midriff. Pair with baggy jeans or a mini skirt.

• Buying Tip: Look for fine-gauge knits that sit close to the skin without being tight.

3. The "Royal Polish" (The Kate Middleton Look)

For a more conservative and elegant approach, look to royalty.

• The Vibe: Sophisticated, timeless, and professional.

• How to Get It: A crew-neck cardigan fully buttoned up, tucked into a pleated skirt or tailored trousers.

• Buying Tip: Fit is everything here. You want a "semi-fitted" shape that defines your waist but allows for movement.

Influencer Secrets: It's Not What You Wear, It's How You Wear It

Fashion bloggers don't just put clothes on; they style them. Here are three tricks influencers use to make a basic cardigan look editorial.

1. The "Shoulder Drape" (The Cape)

Instead of putting your arms through the sleeves, drape the cardigan over your shoulders like a cape.

• Why it works: It adds instant elegance to a simple T-shirt or a summer dress. It says, "I'm chilly, but I'm chic."

• Best Product: A slightly heavier weight Wool or Cashmere Cardigan stays on the shoulders better.

2. The "French Tuck"

Don't let a long cardigan swallow your figure. Tuck just the front hem into your jeans or belt.

• Why it works: It defines your waistline while keeping the cozy vibe of the oversized knit in the back.

3. The "Backwards" Trick

Yes, you read that right. Some bold influencers wear their cardigans backward, turning them into a high-neck sweater in the front and a V-back detail in the rear.

• Why it works: It’s unexpected and doubles the versatility of your garment.

How to Adapt These Looks (A Buyer's Checklist)

You don't need a stylist to achieve these looks. You just need the right foundation pieces. When shopping our Cardigan List, keep these three factors in mind:

1. Invest in Neutrals First: Celebrities often stick to camel, grey, black, and cream because they look the most luxurious. Start there before buying bright colors.

2. Size Up for Slouch: If you want the "Katie Holmes" vibe, don't buy your usual size. Size up one or two sizes to get that effortless drape.

3. Check the Buttons: High-quality buttons (like shell or horn) elevate the entire look. Cheap plastic buttons can ruin the illusion of luxury.

Conclusion: Be Your Own Icon

Celebrities and influencers provide great inspiration, but the best style is the one that makes you feel confident. Whether you prefer the sexy slouch of a cashmere set or the polished look of a royal, the cardigan is the perfect canvas for your personal expression.

Ready to upgrade your feed?

Steal the Look: Browse our celebrity-worthy styles in the WFS Cashmere Cardigan Collection and start turning heads.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: How do I keep an oversized cardigan from looking sloppy?

A: Balance is key. If your cardigan is oversized (big on top), keep your bottom half fitted (e.g., skinny jeans, leggings, or a pencil skirt). Also, use the "French Tuck" to define your waist.

Q2: What is the "Old Money" aesthetic for cardigans?

A: The "Old Money" aesthetic focuses on high-quality natural fibers (cashmere, wool) in neutral tones (cream, navy). The fit is classic—neither too tight nor too loose—and often worn over the shoulders or buttoned up with pearls.

Q3: Can I wear a cardigan as a top like celebrities do?

A: Yes! This is a major trend. Look for a cardigan with a higher V-neck or crew neck. Ensure the material is soft enough to wear against bare skin, like our 100% Cashmere options. You may need fashion tape to secure the neckline if it's deep.

Q4: Which cardigan length is most trendy right now?

A: Both extremes are trending. Cropped cardigans (hitting the waist) are popular for a youthful, 90s look, while Maxi cardigans (hitting the calf) are trending for a cozy, bohemian vibe.