While much of the spring season in Paris is marked by heavy rain, I got lucky on my recent trip and spent a lot of my time in the city seeing bright-blue skies and watching happy Parisians put on their first sundresses of the season. When I think about April fashion, my mind immediately goes to a cute little cardigan or a sundress—how smart the French are for pairing the two together.
My favorite thing about this outfit formula is that it has a way of making a dress that you’ve worn again and again feel brand-new. I’m fortunate to have an overstuffed closet filled with items that I absolutely love, so instead of continuing to find new things to buy, I’ve spent my time lately restyling my favorites from the past. Below, find 30 cardigans and dresses you’re going to want to wear together.
If you’re interested in emulating a librarian-inspired vibe, styling a cardigan with a good dress just might be the best place for you to start on your journey. Cool glasses and braids are how I’d style it.
Reformation
Clara Cashmere Crew Cardigan
I’m always looking for an excuse to add a pop of red.
Chelsea28
Eyelet Embroidered Midi Dress
You just can’t go wrong with florals.
Reformation
Franco Split Hem Cardigan
A classic.
Cara Cara
Stephanie Dress
A very good print to know.
Favorite Daughter
The Oversize Wool Blend Cardigan
Librariancore.
Zimmermann
Harmony Metallic Jersey Tank Maxi Sweater Dress
South of France energy.
Open Edit
Luxe Sculpt Cardigan
This one is so flattering at the bust.
J.Crew
Pleated Mini Dress in Textured Tweed
J.Crew dresses like this sell out so fast.
Reformation
Clara Cashmere Crew Cardigan
Stripes could make a solid dress fun.
H&M
Dress With Eyelet Embroidery
Give this dress a glow-up with a good cardigan.
Don’t underestimate the power that an oversize slouchy cardigan and maxi dress can give you. It’s the definition of effortlessly chic and, even better, feels like wearing a blanket.
& Other Stories
Fitted Rib-Knit Cardigan
Okay, but this silhouette.
Reformation
Mayve Knit Dress
I feel like Reformation is in the lead when it comes to dress-and-cardigan offerings.
J.Crew
V-Neck Cotton-Blend Cardigan Sweater
Oversize is the way to go.
1.STATE
Strapless Linen Blend Maxi Dress
A vibrant colorway like this is a must-see.
Reformation
Giusta Oversized Cashmere Cardigan
Just imagine this with a little yellow dress.
J.Crew
Amelia Maxi Shirtdress in Stripe Cotton Poplin
Absolutely classic.
Any sort of unexpected styling pulls me in, and I love the clashing prints and vibrant colors in this look. This is an area of experimentation that has no limits, so combine the unexpected when you’re styling your cardigan and see what happens.
Mango
Tie Waist Button Front Cardigan
I live for a little tie.
SIEDRÉS
Izen Patchwork Asymmetric Printed Dress
Big Carrie Bradshaw energy.
J.Crew
Pointelle Cardigan Sweater
Pointelle details always get me.
J.Crew
Empire-Waist Midi Dress
Now, I’m really excited about summer.
All in Favor
Crop Cable Cardigan
Cable-knits for days.
Reformation
Babette Dress
Every time I see a dress like this, I stop scrolling.
Helsa
Jersey Cardi
This with a fitted dress would be ideal.
J.Crew
Fit-and-Flare Shirtdress in Lightweight Oxford
A mini you would want to know about.
If you’re looking for a classic and timeless French-girl approach, this look just might be it. A pointelle cardigan and slip dress will always have people greeting you with “bonjour.”
J.Crew
Cropped Crewneck Cardigan Sweater
A short-sleeve cardigan is such a vibe.
House of CB
Elia Floral Stretch Cotton Blend Corset Sundress
Princess behavior.
Banana Republic
Lucia Cropped Cardigan
The sleeves caught my eye.
Farm Rio
Floral Sketch Tiered Cotton Midi Dress
Everything about Farm Rio gets a yes from me.
J.Crew
Cardigan Sweater
Exactly what I think of when I’m envisioning a French woman in a cardigan.