ACTIVE BASIC Open Front Rib Trim Long Sleeve Knit Cardigan | HGREY / S 100100082471729

Why this cardigan is a go-to layering piece

A lightweight, long-sleeve knit that balances a clean finish with easy everyday wear. The piece is designed to sit open at the front so you can build outfits quickly — from relaxed weekend looks to polished office layers — while a fine ribbed edge keeps the silhouette tidy. Expect flattering drape, subtle recovery from movement, and enough structure to be styled belted or left loose.

Fabric advantages — Pros & cons

Pros

• Soft hand and fluid drape — viscose gives a smooth, almost silk-like feel against skin for comfortable all-day wear.
• Improved shape retention and durability — polyester in the blend helps the garment hold its shape, recover from stretching and resist wrinkles better than pure viscose.
• Lightweight and breathable — suitable for layering without adding bulk.
• Low maintenance compared with natural-only knits — blends like this dry faster and tolerate more frequent washing when treated gently.
• Versatile styling — the ribbed trim provides subtle structure that transitions easily between casual and smarter looks.

Cons

• May pill over time at friction points (under arm, bag straps) — common in mixed knits with synthetic fibers.
• Viscose fibers can be weaker when wet, so aggressive washing or high-heat drying can damage the knit.
• Not as insulating as wool — better as a mid-layer or for mild to cool weather rather than sub-zero temperatures.
• Contains synthetic content — polyester is durable but less biodegradable; laundering can release microfibers unless you take precautions.

Materials — What they are and what to expect

This cardigan combines a regenerated-cellulose fiber and a synthetic polymer. The cellulose-derived fiber (commonly called viscose or rayon) is prized for its softness, excellent dye uptake, and fluid drape — it feels cool to the touch and sits smoothly over curves. Polyester is a resilient synthetic that adds strength, quick-drying performance and wrinkle resistance.

Practical notes:

• Viscose: breathable and soft, but can weaken when soaked and is prone to distortion if dried incorrectly.
• Polyester: boosts longevity and dimensional stability, but it can trap heat and is associated with microplastic shedding in machine washes.
• Knit construction: gives natural stretch and movement; ribbed trims at edges add extra spring and visual definition.

Sustainability tip: if you are concerned about microfibers, use a fine-mesh laundry bag or a microfiber-capture device when washing and wash on cold, gentle cycles.

How to measure yourself and a garment for the best fit

Follow these steps to compare your measurements to the product sizing and choose the right fit.

1. What you need: a soft tape measure, a thin top or bra, and a mirror or a helper.
2. Bust/Chest: measure around the fullest part of your chest with the tape parallel to the floor. Breathe normally and do not pull the tape tight.
3. Underbust/Band: measure under the breasts for a baseline if needed for layering decisions.
4. Waist: measure at the smallest part of your torso (natural waist).
5. Hips: measure around the fullest part of your hips and seat.
6. Shoulder width: measure from one shoulder seam point to the other across the back or from the base of the neck to the shoulder tip for sleeve fit.
7. Sleeve length: measure from where your shoulder seam sits (or shoulder tip) down to the wrist with a slight bend in the elbow.
8. Garment length: measure from the highest point at the back of the neck down to where you want the hem to sit (this cardigan typically lands at the hip on most heights).
9. Compare like-for-like: when the product provides garment measurements, measure a similar cardigan you already own laid flat: chest across (armpit to armpit) × 2 for circumference, and compare to the product's garment measurement. If the product lists a range, that typically reflects body measurements that align comfortably with the garment’s stretch.

Fit rule of thumb: add 2"–4" (5–10 cm) of ease for a light layer over tees, or 4"–6" (10–15 cm) if you’ll wear it over thicker sweaters.

Model & fit reference (example)

To help you visualize fit, here are common model references used in product imagery (note: these are examples to guide sizing decisions):

• Example A: Height ~5'9" (175 cm), lean build, typically wears size S — the cardigan appears slightly relaxed and hip-length.
• Example B: Height ~5'6" (167 cm), medium build, typically wears size M — the cardigan looks comfortable with smart layering room.

If you are petite or tall, expect the body length and sleeve length to shift accordingly: petite wearers may want to style tucked or belted; taller customers may find the garment sits shorter than shown on very tall models.

Color guidance & how to combine this piece

This type of cardigan is a neutral-style foundation that pairs well with many palettes:

• Neutrals (black, grey, camel, navy): anchor them with denim, crisp white shirts, leather boots and structured bags for a refined capsule look.
• Warm tones (rust, olive, mustard): balance with cream, deep denim, or chocolate-brown accessories; add gold-tone jewelry to warm up the outfit.
• Soft pastels: layer over a light blouse or slip dress and finish with nude or silver accents for a gentle feminine look.
• Pattern mixing: stripes, checks or small florals work well underneath; keep the rest of the outfit simple to let prints read cleanly under the open front.

Styling tip: use a slim belt to instantly convert the open silhouette into a defined waist look for evenings or more structured outfits.

Style & occasion

This cardigan lives in the smart-casual zone — easy enough for errands and coffee runs, neat enough for a layered office look. The ribbed trim adds polish to the edges so it can act as a blazer alternative on milder days. Because it’s lightweight, it also packs well for travel and handles quick outfit switches from daytime to dinner with a change of accessories.

Seasons — when to wear it

• Best for spring and fall as a primary outer layer on cool days.
• Useful in summer evenings when temperatures dip.
• In winter it’s ideal as a mid-layer under a coat — pair with a heavier jacket for colder climates.

Care tips & fit notes

Fit notes

• Designed with a slight natural stretch — it accommodates light layering without losing shape.
• For a tailored look, choose your usual size; if you frequently layer bulky knits underneath, consider sizing up.
• Because the knit is designed to drape, it skims the body rather than clings — this flatters a range of figures.

Quick care reminders

• Cold-water wash and gentle handling preserve softness and shape.
• Avoid high heat in the dryer to minimize shrinkage and fiber stress.
• De-pill gently with a sweater comb or fabric shaver when needed.

Care Guide — to keep it lovely longer

1. Turn inside out: protect the outer face of the knit and trims during washing.
2. Machine or hand wash: cold water; choose a delicate or hand-wash cycle. Hand wash if you prefer extra care.
3. Use mild detergent: avoid bleach and harsh chemicals. Do not use strong fabric softeners regularly; a small amount occasionally is fine.
4. Use a mesh bag: reduces abrasion and helps trap loose fibers.
5. Drying: reshape while damp and lay flat to dry. If you must tumble dry, use the lowest heat for a short time — air-dry is best.
6. Ironing/steaming: use a low-heat iron or a garment steamer. Steam from the wrong side or use a press cloth to avoid shine.
7. Storage: fold and store on a shelf to avoid shoulder stretching from hangers; if you hang, use broad, padded hangers.
8. De-pilling: remove pills carefully with a fabric shaver or sweater comb; test on an inconspicuous area first.
9. Stain care: spot-treat gently with mild detergent; avoid vigorous rubbing which can distort the knit.

FAQ

• Q: Is the cardigan true to size?
  A: It runs close to standard sizing with slight stretch. Choose your usual size for a regular fit; size up if you plan to wear thick layers underneath.
• Q: Will it shrink after washing?
  A: Follow the care guide (cold wash, reshape, air dry) to avoid shrinkage. High heat can cause viscose fibers to distort or shrink.
• Q: Is it see-through?
  A: Color and knit weight affect opacity. Darker shades and tighter knits are less likely to be transparent; a simple cami or tee underneath ensures full coverage.
• Q: How should I prevent pilling?
  A: Wash gently, avoid abrasive friction (backpack straps, rough surfaces), and remove pills as they appear with a fabric shaver.
• Q: Can I safely dry clean it?
  A: Yes — dry cleaning is a safe option for maintaining shape and finish, especially if you prefer professional care.

Style tips — outfit ideas

• Weekend: white tee, high-rise jeans, ankle boots, and the cardigan worn open for an effortless layered look.
• Office: slim blouse, tailored trousers, loafers; add a slim leather belt over the cardigan to give waist definition.
• Evening: slip dress or satin cami, delicate jewelry, strappy heels — use the cardigan as a soft wrap.
• Travel: pack as a lightweight top layer — roll instead of fold to reduce wrinkles and use as a pillow on long trips.
• Casual-chic: half-tuck a tee into a midi skirt, add sneakers and a crossbody bag for a balanced, modern silhouette.

Ready to upgrade your layering essentials? This knit is designed to make dressing simpler — pick the size that matches your layering needs, care for it gently, and it will reward you with seasons of versatile wear.