Striped Waffle Knit Open Front Cardigan | Multicolor / S 100100289181945

Product overview

A longline, open-front cardigan cut for relaxed layering with a soft waffle-texture and bright stripe accents. The dropped-shoulder silhouette and generous knit stretch make it easy to throw on over tees, thin sweaters or dresses; the textured surface gives visual depth without extra weight. This piece is designed to move between casual weekends and elevated-casual looks—perfect when you need an easy finishing layer that still reads polished.

Why consider this cardigan: it packs lightweight warmth, dependable color retention, and easy-care performance into a piece that elevates simple outfits while still feeling effortless. It’s a convenient travel layer that resists wrinkling and maintains shape after repeated wear.

Fabric advantages — Pros and cons

• Pros
  • Lightweight insulation: textured knit traps small air pockets that help retain warmth without bulk.
  • Vivid, lasting color: synthetic yarns accept and hold dye well so stripes stay bright through many washes.
  • Stretch and recovery: knit construction and yarn resilience give comfortable movement and good shape retention.
  • Low-maintenance: machine washable and quick to dry compared with many natural knits.
  • Affordable, hypoallergenic option for those sensitive to wool’s lanolin.
  • Travel-friendly: resists heavy wrinkling and packs easily.
• Cons (and practical work-arounds)
  • Pilling where friction occurs — reduce abrasion by washing inside-out, use a mesh bag, and gently remove pills with a fabric shaver when needed.
  • Static cling in dry conditions — add a dryer sheet on low, mist with water, or use a handheld steamer/anti-static spray.
  • Less breathable than some natural fibers in hot weather — best used as a cool-evening or transitional-season layer.
  • Environmental concerns: synthetic fibers can shed microplastics — limit shedding by washing gently, using a microplastic-capture bag, and avoiding high-spin cycles.
  • Heat-sensitive — avoid high-heat drying and direct hot ironing to prevent distortion or melting.

Materials — what "acrylic" and waffle knit mean

The cardigan is made from acrylic yarn and shaped into a waffle (also called honeycomb) knit. Acrylic is a man-made polymer engineered to mimic many desirable wool qualities — softness, loft and good color retention — while being lighter and usually less expensive. The waffle knit is produced by alternating knit and purl stitches to create a recessed grid that increases surface area and traps warm air.

Practical material notes from apparel science and textile care:

• Acrylic has low moisture-absorbency compared with natural fibers, which helps it dry quickly but can contribute to static and less breathability in hot conditions.
• The fiber dyes well and resists fading, so bright stripes maintain vibrancy after repeated laundering when washed correctly.
• Synthetic knits are prone to pilling under friction; gentle laundering and minimal rubbing reduce the effect.
• Because acrylic is non-biodegradable, consider wash methods (mesh bags, low-spin cycles, microplastic filters) that reduce fiber release to wastewater.

Alternatives to consider if you want different performance: natural wool or wool blends for higher insulation per weight, recycled acrylic for a lower footprint option, or cotton blends for cooler-season breathability.

How to measure — body and garment (step‑by‑step)

Two measurement checks help you pick the right size: your body measurements and the garment’s laid-flat measurements (compare both).

Measure your body

1. Wear a fitted top or the bra you’ll normally wear with the cardigan.
2. Bust/Chest: wrap the tape around the fullest part of your chest and shoulder blades; keep it level and comfortable (not tight).
3. Shoulder width: measure across the back from the point where the shoulder seam should sit on one side to the other.
4. Sleeve length: from the high point of the shoulder (where a seam would meet the neck) down to the wrist bone.
5. Desired length: measure from the high point of shoulder (or base of neck) down to the hem point you prefer.

Measure a garment laid flat

1. Lay the cardigan flat and smooth, without stretching.
2. Bust (flat): measure across the chest about 1" below the armhole and double that number for circumference.
3. Shoulder: seam-to-seam across the back where shoulder seams sit.
4. Front length: from the top of the shoulder or base of neck to the hem.
5. Sleeve: measure from the shoulder seam to the cuff.

How to choose the right size — simple rule and examples

Decide how much ease (extra room) you want, then match your body bust to a garment bust measurement:

• Close fit or worn over thin layers: aim for 1–3" of ease.
• Layered or oversized look (cozy over sweaters): aim for 3–6" of ease.

Example: if your chest measures 36" and you want 4" ease, pick a garment with a bust measurement near 40". Also verify the shoulder measurement if you prefer the seam to sit close to your natural shoulder rather than lower on the arm.

Model & fit information

No specific model height or size is provided for images. Use the garment front-length and shoulder measurements to judge how the cardigan will sit on you:

• Petite frames: the longline cut will read tunic-length—pair with slim bottoms or choose a smaller size for a shorter look if you prefer.
• Average-height frames: expect mid-thigh coverage depending on torso length.
• Taller frames: the piece will hit higher on the thigh or close to the knee; check front length if you want longer coverage.
• Plus sizes: because of knit stretch, rely on the garment bust measure for accuracy; the open front and drape provide coverage without binding.

Fit tip: dropped shoulders are intentional. If you want a neat shoulder seam at the natural shoulder, select a size where the flat shoulder measurement closely matches your shoulder width.

Color, pattern and pairing suggestions

The stripes are the focal point—treat them like a palette and build a simple base outfit around one of the stripe colors.

• Neutral foundation: white or black tee and denim keeps the look casual and lets the stripes stand out.
• Monochrome anchor: pick one stripe hue as the anchor (e.g., navy or rust) and echo it in shoes or a bag for a pulled-together feel.
• Office-friendly: layer over a slim blouse or fine-gauge turtleneck and slim trousers; add ankle boots for a polished silhouette.
• Textural contrast: pair the waffle knit with sleek fabrics—ponte leggings, leather-look pants, or a satin slip dress to balance the cozy surface.
• Accessories: narrow belts define the waist, long pendants elongate the line, and scarves or beanies add seasonal interest.

Style & silhouette

This cardigan blends relaxed ease with tidy lines. The longline open front creates verticality; dropped shoulders and a roomy bust deliver a casual, slouchy aesthetic. It works as a lightweight outer layer in cool conditions or as a styling piece indoors to add texture and color. Belt it for a waist-defined look, or keep it open for effortless drape.

Seasonal suitability

Best for transitional weather—spring and fall—when layering matters. It provides light-to-moderate warmth: ideal over tees and thin knits, and as an indoor layering piece during winter. In hot climates, reserve it for cooler evenings or air-conditioned spaces.

Care tips & fit notes (quick reference)

• Turn the cardigan inside out before washing to protect the knit texture and color.
• Machine wash cold on a gentle cycle; use a mild detergent.
• Prefer flat drying to preserve the waffle texture and prevent shoulder stretch; if you must tumble dry, use the lowest heat and remove promptly.
• Fold for storage rather than hanging long-term to avoid stretching the shoulder area.
• If pills form, use a fabric shaver carefully and avoid aggressive rubbing.
• Because shoulders are dropped by design, expect a relaxed, slouchy seam placement—size down only if you want a more structured shoulder, and double-check shoulder measurements if that is critical.

FAQ

Is the knit see-through?

The waffle structure and acrylic yarn provide good coverage; it’s not lined but is opaque enough for everyday wear with standard underlayers.

Will it be warm enough for winter?

It provides light to medium warmth. In cold climates it’s best as a layering piece under a coat or over a heavier sweater rather than as a standalone winter coat.

Does this cardigan run true to size?

It’s cut for a relaxed fit with significant stretch. Use the garment measurements and your desired ease to pick the size—allow more ease for layering over thicker sweaters.

Can it be machine washed?

Yes—cold, gentle cycle is recommended. Use a mesh bag and low spin; lay flat to dry when possible.

How do I fix a snag?

Gently push the loop toward the inside and smooth the surface. Avoid cutting the loop. For visible snags, a tiny darning needle can help redistribute yarn back into the knit.

Is it suitable for sensitive skin?

Many who react to wool find acrylic comfortable because it lacks lanolin, but individual sensitivities vary—if you have very reactive skin, test fabric against your skin briefly before wearing for long periods.

What about pilling and static?

Pilling can occur over time; reduce it by washing inside out on gentle cycles. Static can be managed with anti-static spray, a dampening of the fabric, or a dryer sheet on low heat.

Care guide — keep it lovely longer

1. Pre-wash: Turn inside out and secure any items in the same load to prevent snags.
2. Wash: Cold water, delicate/gentle cycle, mild liquid detergent. Use a mesh laundry bag when available.
3. Rinse & spin: Low-spin settings minimize stress on the knit.
4. Dry: Reshape while damp and lay flat on a towel or rack. Avoid direct sun that can fade colors. If using a dryer, choose tumble low and remove early to air-dry flat.
5. Restore surface: Remove pills with a battery or plug-in fabric shaver. Steam gently to relax fibers—do not press a hot iron directly on acrylic.
6. Storage: Fold and store in a cool, breathable drawer. For long-term storage, use breathable bags and avoid plastic. If moth protection is desired, use cedar sachets kept off direct contact with the fabric.
7. Microplastic reduction: Use a wash-bag designed to catch fibers (such as a Guppyfriend) or in-line filters, wash less frequently, and opt for low-spin cycles.

Style tips

• Belt it: Add a narrow or statement belt at the natural waist to convert the relaxed drape into a polished, structured look for work or an evening out.
• Layer smartly: Use slim-fitting base layers (tank, tee or thin turtleneck) so the cardigan’s texture and stripes remain the focal point.
• Mix textures: Pair with leather-look leggings, suede boots or a cotton midi skirt for a pleasing contrast to the waffle surface.
• Balance proportions: Because the cardigan is long and relaxed, keep bottoms more fitted—skinny jeans, straight-leg trousers or a pencil skirt work well.
• Accessorize: Long necklaces lengthen the torso, while structured bags and narrow belts elevate the casual silhouette.
• Travel styling: Wear over a tee and elastic-waist pants for comfortable travel layers that look intentional when you step off the plane.

If you'd like personalized sizing advice, tell us your bust measurement and whether you plan to wear this mainly over thin tops or thicker sweaters—I’ll recommend the best size and styling approach.