I recently got a new Shein haul (gifted). It was so funny when my package arrived because I think 5 of the 8 pieces I picked were black and white. There is something so classic about the color combination that you can’t go wrong. Plus, it is always in style. When I saw this belted cardigan, I actually wasn’t planning to wear it as a dress. But once I tried it on, the oversized fit and the belt at the waist felt like the perfect belted cardigan dress. If you’re looking to add a long wool cardigan, here are 3 reasons why you will love them.

{Stacey’s Look: Belted Cardigan; Bag (similar); Boots (similar); Necklaces; Rings}

Everything You Never Knew About Cardigans

Cardigans generally are open in the front and have buttons. Sometimes, they can also have zippers or eyelets for closure, and they would still be considered cardigans. Cardigans can also be open without closures to still be considered a cardigan. The main difference between a cardigan and other sweaters is that cardigans are open and don’t need to be pulled over your head to be worn. Most of the time, cardigans are made out of wool, cotton, or some other synthetic fiber or blend. They can be hand knit or made with a machine. 

Cardigans get their name from James Brudenell, the 7th Earl of Cardigan. He was a British Army major general who led the battle of Balaclava in the Crimean War. Cardigans are modeled after the wool waistcoats that British officers wore during that war. Because Earl Brudenell was so famous after the success he achieved during the war, the cardigan style grew in popularity. It is said that the Earl invented the cardigan after noticing the tails of his coat were burned off accidentally. 

Originally, the term cardigan was only for knitted vests without sleeves but then was expanded to other garments over time. Coco Chanel was given credit for popularizing cardigans among women. A lot of times, cardigans are associated with college culture and were also very popular in the 20s the 30s. However, cardigans have remained a staple throughout the 20th and now into the 21st century.

3 Reasons You Need a Belted Cardigan

1. A Belted Cardigan Defines Your Waist

The part I like most about this contrast trim belted cardigan is that it defines my waistline so well. If you have an hourglass shape or you want to fake one, a belt is the best way to do that. It creates a beautiful shape and really accentuates the smallest part of your body. I also love that this belt is so long that it becomes such a style piece for the sweater. You can also tie it as tight as you want. I like to loop the belt through the front, but you can also wrap it all the way around if you don’t want it to hang down.

2. They are Versatile 

Any long wool cardigan is going to be a great piece that you can wear in a lot of ways. This cardigan I wore as a dress, but the model actually wore it with black flared pants with a slit. It would also look great if you left it open with the belt hanging down, more like a trench style jacket. If you do choose to wear it open, you could style it with jeans and booties or leggings and tall boots. I also think leggings with some strappy sandals would be a really cute look. 

3. Perfect for All Seasons

This belted cardigan is the perfect layering piece so it can be worn any season. You can also remove the belt and wear it super casually with jeans and a tank. It would also look really cute with some cut-off shorts. 

If you’re looking for other winter fashion, click here. If you’re looking for other sweater dress posts, click here.

Belted Cardigans Under $50