How To Wear A Cardigan When You’ve Got Big Boobs: Your Definitive Guide

Some tips and tricks from a woman who knows.

Ashley Graham Instagram Cardigan

by Lillian Sesiguzel |
Updated on

It's been over a year since that Katie Holmes moment. You know, the one where she graced the streets of New York wearing one of the most perfect outfits ever invented: the matching cashmere bra and cardigan from Khaite.

It wasn't long before high street giants like Zara and Primark were launching their own homage to the two-piece. But aside from the fact we were all mesmerised by a cashmere bra, it really put the humble cardigan back on our radar. That and Taylor Swift's Folklore album, of course.

You would think that the cardigan is an easy piece to wear, great for layering, especially when it comes to transitioning from summer into autumn. But, I've somewhat struggled when it comes to choosing the right style of cardigan for my body shape.

I've found that having a fuller bust makes wearing anything with buttons a bit of a nightmare. Over the years, however, I've come to understand the dos and don'ts, which I've included in the gallery below. Find out my tips and tricks on how to wear a cardigan when you've got big boobs...

Gallery

How To Wear A Cardigan When You've Got Big Boobs

The Cropped Cardi – Bershka, Lightweight cardigan with buttons, £19.991 of 9

The Cropped Cardi – Bershka, Lightweight cardigan with buttons, £19.99

If you feel like most cardigans make you look 'boxy' then opt for a cropped cardigan. It'll hug your waist and create a more flattering silhouette. Pair with high waisted bottoms.

The Long Cardi – Uterqu00fce, Knit Cardigan With Chain Details, £1302 of 9

The Long Cardi – Uterqüe, Knit Cardigan With Chain Details, £130

Long cardigans are a great throw-on-and-go piece, and can actually be the statement piece of your outfit. Plus, they look best worn open, so there's no need to worry about the fit.

The Collar Cardi – COS, Organic Cotton Mesh Panel Knitted Top, £593 of 9

The Collared Cardi – COS, Organic Cotton Mesh Panel Knitted Top, £59

If you're not sure what neckline suits you, or what top to pair with your cardigan, then the collared cardigan top might be for you. It's minimal stress in terms of styling, and will look cute with anything.

The Detailed Cardi – MONKI, Diamante buttons cardigan, £404 of 9

The Detailed Cardi – MONKI, Diamante buttons cardigan, £40

A cardigan with detailing or embellishments, like this Monki cardigan with diamante buttons, will take your focus off the fit. Tip: loosely tuck the cardigan into your waistband to create shape, and open the top buttons for a more relaxed look.

The Ribbed Cardi – & Other Stories, Cropped Ribbed Cardigan, £555 of 9

The Ribbed Cardi – & Other Stories, Cropped Ribbed Cardigan, £55

Although a ribbed cardigan looks great on the hanger, if you have bigger boobs make sure to go one, or even two, sizes up. This will ensure you avoid those gapping holes in between each button.

The Jacket Cardi – House Of Sunny, Peggy Cardi, £796 of 9

The Jacket Cardi – House Of Sunny, Peggy Cardi, £79

Worn open or closed, this more structured cardigan is a great option when you don't want to wear a jacket or a coat.

The Chunky Cardi – H&M, Knitted Wool Cardigan, £39.997 of 9

The Chunky Cardi – H&M, Knitted Wool Cardigan, £39.99

A chunky knit cardigan can make you feel more top heavy than you might already be. That's why I would always recommend looking out for where the buttons start on the cardigan. If they start below your bust you don't have to worry about them being, potentially, prised apart.

The Ballet Cardi – Olive, Ballet Wrap Cardigan, £598 of 9

The Ballet Cardi – Olive, Ballet Wrap Cardigan, £59

Not every cardigan has to be a button-down style. Why not opt for a classic ballet wrap, and wear it either loose or tight depending on your preference.

The Robe Cardi – ALANUI, Leopard Animal-print Knitted Cardigan, £14559 of 9

The Robe Cardi – ALANUI, Leopard Animal-print Knitted Cardigan, £1455

A cardigan with a waist belt or tie will accentuate your figure, and sit nicely across your bust. This style of cardigan will move with you, rather than being pulled or stretched in any way.

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