We've got a hack for looking way more put together when all you can do is throw on jeans and a top before running out the door: the tank and cardigan trend set. Equal parts nostalgic and sophisticated, spring is ushering in the cutest versions, from powdery pastel colors and punchy saturated shades to iconic motifs like stripes, checkerboard, and plaid.
The sweater set vibe is commonly associated with preppy aesthetics, which is exactly we're going for some days. Pro tip: collared sweater combos anchored by a knitted camisole are an excellent way to master the look with a modern edge. But when we're not going all-out prep, there's plenty of variety when you team them with leather pants, slouchy trousers, minis, and denim (ofc!), from minimalist with a sporty bent to skin-baring for date night (hello, bra top). So, there's a cardigan and tank set for all, including so-soft athleisure versions to pair with your fave leggings and sweats for your gentlest days.
The next time you presume a cardigan 'fit to be snoozy, check yourself, because the 19 sets ahead prove the look is anything but dull.
The clean lines featured in this Old Navy Striped Cozy Cropped Cardigan Sweater ($40) and Cozy Cropped Sweater Tank Top ($30) give new life to classic navy and white stripes.
Get your collared sweater thrills in this Reformation Frida Cashmere Tank And Cardi Set ($268).
Spice up your life in Jonathan Simkhai's Safford Cotton Cashmere Cardigan ($445) and Gina Cotton Cashmere Bralette ($185) — even better if you finish with the matching miniskirt.
You'll feel like sunshine on a cloudy day in this Old Navy Cropped Cozy-Knit Cardigan ($40) and Cozy Cropped Sweater Tank Top ($30).
This A.L.C. Ellen Knit Cardigan ($395) is giving minimalist with a dash of sport when paired with the brand's racerback Lola Knit Top ($225).
You can never have too many greens, as proven by this Old Navy Cropped Cozy-Knit Cardigan ($40) and Cozy Cropped Sweater Tank Top ($30) set.
This Favorite Daughter The Lana Cardigan ($268) is adorable on its own, but add in The Lana Bra ($118), and it's *chef's kiss* perfection.
This Old Navy Rib-Knit Matching Single-Button Cardigan Sweater ($30) and Rib-Knit V-Neck Matching Sweater Tank Top ($17) is the perfect blush neutral when you aren't feeling tan or beige.
Dôen's Adriana Vest ($168) is gorgeous on its own, but made even more dimensional with the Dôen Chandel Cardigan ($258) tossed over your shoulders.
Keep the Barbiecore vibes going into spring with this Old Navy Rib-Knit Matching Single-Button Cardigan Sweater ($30) and Rib-Knit V-Neck Matching Sweater Tank Top ($17).
It doesn't get more whimsical than YanYan's Checked Extra Long Sleeve Collared Cardigan ($425) with the darling Checked Crop Top ($295).
This grey Old Navy Cropped Cozy-Knit Cardigan ($40) and Cozy Cropped Sweater Tank Top ($30) is a versatile combo to keep in rotation.
A re-worked silhouette, like Frame's Shrunken Cardi ($298) and Shrunken Vest ($228) instantly modernizes the classic sweater set.
Pastel plaid feels far from twee when it involves this ASTR The Label Belmont Plaid Cardigan ($98) and matching bustier-inspired Plaid Knit Cami ($64).
Secure this Old Navy Rib-Knit Matching Single-Button Cardigan Sweater ($30) and Rib-Knit V-Neck Matching Sweater Tank Top ($17) to master the next vanilla girl aesthetic.
Keep things comfy yet sleek in a ribbed set, like Oyun's Oxford Cardigan ($198) and coordinating His Rib Tank ($110).
Whether with activewear or sweats on soft days, this Live The Process Marl Cardigan ($248) and Marl Bralette ($118) is a dream.
Bring on allll the powdery shades this spring, starting with this pale blue Old Navy Cropped Cozy-Knit Cardigan ($40) and Cropped Sweater Tank Top ($30) set.
Give your best '90s Mariah Carey in this Autumn Adeigbo Liana Cardigan ($425) and butterfly-adorned Liana Bralette ($395).