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Move Over, Grandpa Sweaters—*This* Is the Cardigan Style All the Cool Girls Are Wearing Now

I'm ready to shop them all

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bow front cardigans collage
PureWow/Nordstrom/Reformation/Aligne

I love a good fashion trend as much as the next girl, but I'm always a bit hesitant to try them out until I know that they'll be sticking around for more than a few weeks. Since I've been spotting tons of people around L.A. wearing these trendy bow-tie cardigans for quite a while now, I think it's finally time I get the look into my own rotation—and you might want to follow suit.

A touch more polished and feminine than the slouchy, chunky grandpa knits we've been seeing over the past few years, the style can more easily adapt to dressier outfits (especially during holiday party season), but remains as comfy and cozy as you'd want from a cardigan. I did some digging around the internet (and tapped my fellow PureWow editors) to find some of the cutest options up for grabs—here are seven of the best tie-front knits that you'll want to don all fall and winter long.

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When it comes to adding this merino wool-blend style to her own closet, PureWow Senior Commerce Editor Stephanie Maida shares, "I’m eyeing this cropped cardigan for the holidays—not only do the big bows feel particularly fitting among the presents, it also gives off a flirty, coquettish vibe I adore." Shoppers say it fits true-to-size, too, and the ribbon ties are helpful for adjusting its fit.

Associate Fashion Commerce Editor Stephanie Meraz says this '90s-esque, single-tie cardi from Reformation is high up on her shopping list: "I need someone to ask me out because I desperately want to wear this stunner on a first date. It’s cute, sexy, cozy…what’s not to love?" Considering its easy, relaxed fit and 100 percent cashmere fabric, I have to agree with her.

Meraz also loves this affordable Amazon find for its drapey style that looks super cozy and reminds her of one of her favorite Djerf Avenue cardigans. This one's made from a viscose/polyamide/polyester blend and, per reviewers, its quality exceeds its $30 price tag (but they do note that it's a bit oversized): "Right away, I fell in love with the feel of the fabric. It is very soft and a good weight, heavier than I expected. The sizing is definitely 'oversized.' The length of the sleeves feels great, but there is quite a bit of width for a small." So if you want it to fit tighter, I'd suggest sizing down.

This beauty has made it onto my own wish list for its bold, bright red color that I know I'll get a ton of use out of going into the holiday season. I love that it's made of a natural, breathable organic cotton material, and that I could easily dress it down with jeans or up with a satin skirt. (If the bright hue's not your thing, it also comes in black.)

If you're looking for something a little more festive, don't waste any time before picking up this cozy find that comes complete with a crystal-adorned bow for a dash of pizazz. It is available in multiple neutrals like black, gray and ivory, but also a super trendy burgundy that's great for the season. The billowed sleeves and deep V-neck dress it up even further, and honestly, I could see myself wearing this to everything from a holiday party to drinks with friends.

This number's been popping up all over my Instagram and TikTok feeds lately, with tons of comments along the lines of "running to Target," so don't expect it to stay in stock much longer. The Wild Fable cardigan has a ribbed fabric and a slightly cropped length, which makes it perfect for pairing with the matching tube sweater to wear underneath (paging Katie Holmes!). Whether you go full co-ord or just snag the cardi, the cutest fall/winter looks surely await.

Want to give the trend a try without fussing over tying the perfect bow? Then I'd suggest scooping up this find from Cupshe that features three dazzling metallic bows that will effortlessly hold their shape. Just note that the brand recommends either hand washing or dry cleaning this one to keep it in the best shape.


natalie bio photo e1692204716113

Assistant Commerce Editor

  • Writes commerce stories and features that span multiple topics, including fashion, beauty, travel, home and sales/deals
  • Has contributed to reports on ethical fashion and continues to stay up-to-date on sustainablility developments
  • Completed a bachelor's degree in psychology at the University of Pittsburgh and a master's degree in fashion studies at Parsons The New School

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