The word "cardigan" may not have garnered much excitement in the past, but the knitwear staple has been thrust into cult buy status in recent years. Khaite’s now iconic Scarlet cardigan—made famous the moment Katie Holmes was snapped wearing it with a coordinating cashmere bra on the streets of New York back in 2019—remains just as in demand four years after its conception. Other luxury brands such as Chanel and Saint Laurent have been putting a designer spin on cardigans, finishing them with printed patterns and ruffle details that are taking them to the next level.
Fashion people have been adopting these new, directional cardigans into their wardrobes as well as styling more basic styles in fashion-forward ways that solidify their place as a key wardrobe essential. Ahead, see seven ways insiders are wearing cardigan outfits and shop pieces inspired by each of their looks.