A short button-down cardigan is a familiar old friend for all of us. But that’s not the cardigan we’ll be talking about today.

Round-neck short tight cardis with small buttons are a dated style! DON’T buy them!

On-trend cardis are a different cut and different fit.

Here are the key differences to keep in mind:

– modern cardigan has a V-neck rather than a high round neck. Round neck could work, provided it is scooped.

– the fit is relaxed rather than figure-hugging. The sleeves and the body of the cardigan are loose or semi-fitted.

– the fabric is thicker than the fine knit used in old-fashioned cardigans.

The modern cardigan is styled differently when compared to the old-fashioned ones. 

Basically think of it as a jumper.

These cardis can be worn open but look their best when closed and with the waist on show (you can tuck the bottom button of the cardi into the waist of whatever bottoms you are wearing to give it even more definition on the waist).

You might think – well, this style is not going to work well over smart office dresses like the old version did. And you are right.

Modern cardigans are not meant to be styled with shift dresses. If they are teamed with a dress, it is usually a slip dress or another relaxed flowing silhouette.

If you are now puzzled by what to style your sleeveless shift dresses with, I hate to break it to you but they are a dated style too. Those dresses and tight neat cardigans used to work well together, but they’ve been replaced by more modern options that I’ll cover in the upcoming Style Notes.

If you treat the modern cardi as a jumper, you will see that it can be styled with any kind of bottoms and can take most fabrics from silk to denim and other knits.

These cardigans are styled over a bra, but if you find the fabric too itchy, wear a silky camisole inside. Knitwear and silky finishes create a really delicate and feminine combination.

There is a good selection of lovely camisoles in River Island at the moment. You can go for plain styles or the ones with lacy trims – both will work well depending on what effect you want to achieve.

Lace will add a subtle sexy touch to the look without looking vulgar or provocative, but I wouldn’t recommend lacy camis for work.

This style of cardigan will work for any shape with a few minor variations. 

If you have a big bust, go for finer knits so you don’t add bulk. A V-neck and relaxed silhouette will look very flattering. 

If you don’t want to attract unwanted attention to the bust, go for darker colours as cream can have an enlarging effect (which will work well for anyone who wants to add volume to the torso). 

If you have a tummy, choose a cardigan that is not overly tight around the waist. The featured cream cardi is a good example – it will skim over the tummy without showing off the little flaws. 

If you are tired of regular jumpers and want a piece that can double job as a sweater and a cardigan, this is definitely a piece to consider.

Even though it is bang on trend at the moment, it won’t date any time soon so is a safe investment.

If you want a cardi that can be easily dressed up or down, avoid ribbed finishes and go for a smooth surface – merino wool, lambswool, cashmere, moher and alpaca would all work well.

If you already have something similar in your wardrobe, make sure you are styling the cardi to its full potential. I have some ideas below – think leather, pleated or pencil skirts, silky skirts, tailored trousers and slip dresses.