Cardigans

Women's cardigans are the ultimate layering piece, made to throw on and go. Our range includes textured knits, classic button-downs, and standout patterned styles in sizes 3XS to XXL. Sportsgirl has been dressing Aussies since 1948, with 150+ stores nationally and a range that's built to work across every season.

They're made for layering in that in-between weather in Australia. Easy to style, easy to stash. Wear a new arrival or a best seller out the door, or keep one on hand for cool change moments.

What's the Difference Between a Cardigan and a Jumper?

A cardigan opens at the front, either button-down or loose, while a jumper is a pull-on knit for all-over warmth. That’s the key difference between a cardi and a jumper.

Cardigans give you more flexibility to style up or layer lightly, while jumpers are better for trapping warmth. After more coverage? Coatigans and hoodies are the next step up. Some brands lean into merino wool, cashmere, or wool blend fibres, but we keep things lightweight with cotton-rich styles suited to the Australian climate.

Which Cardigan Style Is Right for You?

Classic knit cardigans are the everyday reliable, textured knits are made for cooler days, and patterned and statement styles are for when you want your layer to do the talking. All three categories are available in sizes 3XS to XXL, with options spanning short sleeve, long sleeve, cropped, and longline silhouettes.

1. Classic knit cardigans feature button-down or V-neck cuts in soft cotton knit. These are go-tos for everyday fits and clean silhouettes that slide between casual and work looks.

2. Textured knit cardigans use boucle or cable knit fabrics for that warm, tactile feel. They're cosy without being bulky, ideal for chillier days or layering.

3. Patterned and statement knit cardigans include jacquard, embroidered, or Fair Isle designs. These add energy and personality, styled with denim or dressed-up outfits.

Whether you lean cropped cardigans or long cardigans, there’s a shape here that fits your vibe.

What Colours and Prints Are in Our Cardigan Collection?

Our collection runs from neutrals like cream, black, tan, navy, and olive through to warmer tones including rust, mustard, orange, maroon, and pink, with prints spanning floral embroidery, Fair Isle, jacquard, and tie dye.

Neutrals are the straightforward choice for everyday layering, pairing back to most things already in your wardrobe. Bolder tones like rust and mustard, and prints like Fair Isle and embroidery, add depth to simpler base outfits without needing much else around them.

How Do You Style a Cardigan for Any Occasion?

Cardigans are the most flexible knit in your wardrobe, and with styles ranging from lightweight cotton knit to oversized boucle, there's one that fits whatever you've got planned.

1. Everyday casual: Throw a short sleeve cardigan over a crew neck tee and leggings for a light layer that works indoors and out.

2. Workwear: A v neck cardigan or button-up style pairs neatly with a fitted tank and tailored trousers or a midi skirt.

3. Weekend brunch: Go for a patterned or statement knit, like Fair Isle or embroidery, and style it with denim and boots.

4. Chill nights in: An oversized textured knit, such as a boucle or cable style, adds warmth layered over your sleepwear.

For cooler climates like New Zealand, a longline cardigan adds the right amount of coverage. Hoodies or heavier base layers also sit comfortably underneath when you need extra warmth.

How Do You Care for Knit Cardigans?

Wash knit cardigans on a cold gentle cycle, reshape while damp, and lay flat to dry. Folding instead of hanging keeps the shoulders from stretching out of shape. Cotton knit styles handle regular gentle washing well, while boucle cardigans are worth putting in a mesh laundry bag to protect the texture.

Avoid heat when drying and store them folded in a dry spot. Once you're in the habit, caring for them is simple.

What Else Can You Shop at Sportsgirl?

Jumpers, crochet tanks, knit tops, and t-shirts are all worth a look if you're rounding out your wardrobe. Our new in styles drop regularly across every category.

Save your favourites to a wishlist, use gift cards at checkout, or head in store to see the full range in person. Free delivery is available on orders over $80, and our FAQs page has everything covered on sizing, shipping, and returns.