Are cardigans business casual? (2024)

This question is about careers.

By

Zippia Team

- Jan. 8, 2023

Yes, cardigans are business casual. Men and women can wear cardigans as part of a business casual outfit. They might pair this with slacks, jeans, or a skirt.

Employees can also wear collared shirts underneath turtlenecks for a business casual look, but this is optional. The only types of cardigans that might not be considered business casual are those with extremely elaborate patterns or ones that are holiday themed.

However, depending on your company, you might still get away with wearing a cardigan of this nature for a business casual outfit.

Are cardigans business casual? (1)

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Are cardigans business casual? (2024)

FAQs

Are cardigans business casual? ›

A general guideline for business casual attire for women includes: Khaki, corduroy, twill/cotton pants or skirts - neatly pressed. Sweaters, twinsets, cardigans, polo/knit shirts, tailored blouses. Solid colors work better than bright patterns.

Can I wear a cardigan for business attire? ›

Yep, Cardigans are business casual. Just like a turtleneck, a cardigan is another sweater that belongs in most wardrobes. Cardigans are especially useful because they're a layering piece. Layering pieces at variety and visual interest to your outfits.

What sweaters are considered business casual? ›

A good cable knit or shetland crew neck won't be too bulky to pull off indoors and can be dressed up for a more business casual appearance. As with the other sweater styles, as long as you have a sharp layer underneath, you should look great in most workplace settings.

Is A cardigan smart casual? ›

Jackets, blazers or cardigans: You can wear a professional jacket, sports jacket, blazer or cardigan for smart casual. You have the option for more colours, depending on the outfit. You can wear colours like red, blue, green and tan.

Can I wear a cardigan instead of a blazer? ›

If you're looking for a casual, comfortable outfit, then absolutely! A short sleeved shirt under a cardigan is a great option. If you're looking to dress up a bit more, then you might want to consider pairing a different top with your cardigan.

Is a cardigan business professional? ›

A cardigan is best left in the closet if your dress code calls for business professional attire. An exception to the rule that you can run by your employer is wearing a matching cardigan twinset.

Is it professional to wear a cardigan? ›

For women, a conservative skirt and blouse. Informal dresses paired with cardigans and a pair of flats provide a perfect business casual outfit. Blazers are acceptable, although they can sometimes make your look a little overdressed.

What is not business casual? ›

Jeans, sweat pants, athletic pants, or shorts are not acceptable business casual attire. As with full professional dress, make sure that your socks and shoes are a color fit for your slacks. Shoes/Belt - Be sure to wear a belt and shoes that are in good condition.

Is a cardigan business casual men? ›

Wearing a cardigan in place of a blazer is an easy way to transform a typical office look into one that's business casual.

Is a sweater too casual for business casual? ›

Blouses, plain shirts, sweaters, turtlenecks and vests are all acceptable. Tucked-in or un-tucked can both work, depending on the shirt.

Are jeans and a cardigan business casual? ›

Dark jeans are flexible and can be paired with a T-shirt and a light cardigan for a casual workplace or a button-up shirt for a more formal environment. Though dark jeans are the norm, medium-wash or light-wash jeans can be appropriate in some more casual work environments.

Is a sweater business casual for a woman? ›

Here are some types of women's business casual clothing items: Well-fitting slacks or tailored pants in neutral colors such as black, navy and gray. Comfortable pants such as chinos. Classic blouses, sweaters or collared shirts made from high-quality materials.

Is a cardigan considered formal? ›

It can be considered semi-formal when paired with dress slacks, a button-up shirt, and dress shoes. V-Neck Cardigan: V-neck cardigans are versatile and can be dressed up or down. When worn over a dress shirt with a tie and dress shoes, they can certainly pass as semi-formal attire.

How can I look professional without a blazer? ›

Crew neck sweaters, half-zip knits and V-neck jumpers are all excellent alternatives to a suit blazer. Their formal style pairs well with a long-sleeve shirt and chinos. If it is colder outside, they can also be layered under a sports or casual jacket.

Can I wear just a cardigan? ›

If it is a slim fitted cardigan, it is fashionable to wear it as a top with no blouse underneath. Just make sure the buttons don't gape open. It is very “french casual”. *You can wear a pretty matching camisole underneath or even wear the sweater with the buttons in back like Sézane.com was showing a couple years ago.

Can you wear a cardigan to a formal event? ›

Cardigans with Dresses for Formal Events

Examples of such cardigans are those that are made of high-end fabrics and attention-grabbing colors like metallics. They can easily turn that little black dress (LBD) into a luxurious bold dress that gets all the attention.

Can you wear a cardigan to the office? ›

Duster cardigans with extra length are office-appropriate, especially in a freezing workplace. It helps keep your legs warm when you inevitably forget how cold the office is and try to wear a dress.

Can you wear a sweater for business attire? ›

Blouses, plain shirts, sweaters, turtlenecks and vests are all acceptable. Tucked-in or un-tucked can both work, depending on the shirt.

How do you wear a cardigan at work? ›

Cardigans are wardrobe essentials for smart casual or business casual looks. Layer a shawl-collar cardigan over a white button-down shirt, tucking the dress shirt into a pair of chinos. Complete the look with loafers.

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