Women's Plus Size Classic Cardigan

Classic Cardigan Features

What exactly makes a sweater a cardigan? Unlike a pullover, which has no front opening, a cardigan sweater either buttons or zips all the way up the front. Classic cardigans you may remember usually have buttons. Pearl-like buttons can often be found on cardigans that are part of a twinset.

Cardigan Twinsets

A popular look during the 1950s was the twinset. A sleeveless or short-sleeved shell was topped with a long-sleeved cardigan that normally fastened with delicate buttons. The shell and cardigan matched in color and fabric, and many girls and women wore pearls to complete this very feminine look.

What to Wear With a Cardigan

Cardigans go well with different outfits. You can choose to dress them up or down. If you choose to wear jeans with your cardigan, the overall look can be pulled together with dressy jeans and smart shoes. Otherwise, the effect can be sloppy. Cardigans look wonderful with A-line skirts or elegant slacks.

Where to Find a Women's Plus Size Classic Cardigan

The woman of size has a lot of options when it comes to shopping. You can either shop online, from catalogs or in retail stores. Some brick-and-mortar shops also sell their wares online. Establishments and manufacturers that tailor clothing especially for the full-figured woman include:

• Lane Bryant
• One Stop Plus
• Ashley Stewart
• Junonia
• Catherines
• Jessica London
• Torrid
• Woman Within
• Avenue
• PagoPago

Once the summer merchandise is marked down and fall clothes move in, cardigans are usually among the cool weather offerings, so one of the best times to shop is before summer actually ends. The earlier in the season you shop, the better chance you have of choosing from a good selection.

Styles of Cardigans

Don’t think you have to buy a dainty sweater with pearl buttons to be considered classic. If zippers are more your style, you can find this fashion statement with zippers. Still, there are few fashions as timeless as simple cardigan sweaters. Some styles of women's plus size classic cardigan include:

• This lace-trimmed cardigan has no front closure, so you may want to buy the matching shell to wear underneath.
• A black Lane Bryant cardigan is extra long and buttoned for a conventional look.
• Cables lend a sophisticated air to this pretty knit sweater. This style is long lasting and comes in ivory or charcoal colors, which will accessorize with many different outfits.
• A big button cardigan from J.G. Hook is available in a variety of bright, jewel-tone colors perfect for the plus size woman who wants to stand out.
• A Scandinavian pattern and pewter clasp closure make this sweater unique. You’ll stay warm while lobbing snowballs in this beautiful sweater.
• A beaded lace print make this sweater a delicate jewel.
• Lace overlay decorate this cardigan’s black and vanilla design. Three-quarter sleeves will allow you to show off a beautiful bracelet or watch.

Accessorize It

If you want to go for the complete classic look, pearls will top a cardigan in a truly elegant way. Don’t allow your creativity to be hampered, however, if you don’t wear pearls. There are plenty of other jewelry options, whether you prefer a bold look or one that's more understated.

Make Your Own

Although cardigans in plus sizes are widely available, if you’re a talented knitter, you may consider making your own. Knitting today is not the necessity it was in past times; buying manufactured woolens is almost always cheaper than making them today. However, maybe you love crafting and enjoy making your own clothing. Books like Easy Plus Size Knits from Family Circle or Big Girl Knits contain patterns geared toward the curvy woman who’s handy with two sticks and string. Imagine making your own Sandy Cardigan in the exact colors you want.

Timeless Fashion

Cardigans are a style statement that have stood the test of time. Buy these sweaters in a variety of colors to perk up your cool weather outfits in a classic way.