A cardigan is a lovely sweater that can be worn as part of a set or over a t-shirt to give an outfit an entirely different look. There are many different types of cardigans with most being made from a fine knit of cashmere, cotton or wool.

Look for cardigans that are embellished with lace, pearls, studs and zippers to add character to your outfit. A cardigan is a good way to allow your t-shirts and tank tops to carry from season to season. This allows you to expand on your wardrobe options with new fashion forward outfits.

When looking for a cardigan think about what setting you would be most likely to wear it in. This can help you to narrow down your search by length, color and style.

A patterned shirt worn underneath a cardigan helps to break up the monotone effect of matching and creates a focus in your outfit. A simple black cardigan adds a lot of versatility to your wardrobe, being casual or dressy depending on your accessories.

Cardigans are a great sweater to leave in the car or office just in case the weather gets chilly or starts to rain.

Some great stores to look for cardigans include Banana Republic and The Gap. A basic cardigan made out of a knit or cotton blend usually retails for $40 to $60. Look for materials that are easy to care for and will not be prone to shrinkage.