Blazer vs. Cardigan — What's the Difference?
By Urooj Arif & Fiza Rafique — Updated on March 25, 2024
A blazer is a formal or semi-formal jacket, often tailored and structured, while a cardigan is a knitted, open-front sweater that is more casual and versatile.
Difference Between Blazer and Cardigan
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Key Differences
Blazers are characterized by their tailored fit, structured shoulders, and notched lapels, often made from woven fabrics. They are a staple in formal and semi-formal attire, easily paired with trousers or skirts for a polished look. Blazers can come in various styles, including single-breasted and double-breasted, and are used to elevate an outfit, adding a touch of sophistication. On the other hand, cardigans are knitted sweaters with an open front, which can be buttoned or left open. They are known for their comfort and versatility, fitting into casual and smart-casual wardrobes. Cardigans vary in thickness, pattern, and style, making them a popular choice for layering during cooler weather.
While blazers are often associated with professional settings, meetings, and formal events, cardigans offer a more relaxed vibe, suitable for everyday wear, casual outings, and home use. Blazers tend to be more structured and can be part of a uniform or a business wardrobe, emphasizing a sharp, clean silhouette. In contrast, cardigans lean towards comfort and ease, providing warmth and a cozy feel without sacrificing style. They can be worn over a variety of outfits, from casual t-shirts and jeans to more formal attire as a softer, less formal layer.
The material choice also differentiates the two, with blazers usually crafted from heavier, more durable fabrics like wool, linen, or blends that hold their shape well. Cardigans are primarily made from knit fabrics such as wool, cotton, or synthetic blends, offering flexibility and a range of textures from fine to chunky knits.
From a fashion perspective, blazers are a go-to for creating a defined silhouette, often featuring details like buttons, pockets, and lapels that add to their formal appearance. Cardigans, with their open fronts and softer lines, offer a more fluid and forgiving silhouette, accommodating a wide range of body types and personal styles.
Choosing between a blazer and a cardigan depends on the occasion, personal style, and the level of formality required. While a blazer can instantly elevate an outfit, adding a professional or polished touch, a cardigan is the perfect addition for comfort, warmth, and a relaxed yet stylish look.
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Comparison Chart
Purpose
Adds a formal or semi-formal touch to an outfit.
Provides warmth and comfort in a casual or smart-casual look.
Material
Woven fabrics like wool, linen, or blends.
Knit fabrics such as wool, cotton, or synthetic blends.
Structure
Tailored fit, structured shoulders, notched lapels.
Open front, softer silhouette, can be buttoned or not.
Occasion
Professional settings, meetings, formal events.
Everyday wear, casual outings, layering piece.
Style
Formal, emphasizing a sharp, clean silhouette.
Versatile, offering a relaxed and cozy feel.
Compare with Definitions
Blazer
A formal or semi-formal jacket, tailored for a structured fit.
He wore a navy blazer to the job interview.
Cardigan
A knitted sweater with an open front, often buttoned.
He wrapped himself in a thick cardigan to stay warm.
Blazer
Often features notched lapels and button closures.
Her blazer had gold buttons, adding an elegant touch.
Cardigan
Comes in various styles, from fitted to oversized.
The oversized cardigan became her go-to for casual days.
Blazer
A staple in business and professional attire.
The team coordinated their looks with matching black blazers.
Cardigan
Suitable for casual and smart-casual settings.
For the meeting, he chose a fine-knit cardigan over a button-down shirt.
Blazer
Adds sophistication to both men's and women's wardrobes.
She paired her blazer with jeans for a smart-casual look.
Cardigan
Known for its comfort and layering capability.
She layered her dress with a lightweight cardigan for the evening.
Blazer
Can be single-breasted or double-breasted.
The double-breasted blazer gave a vintage look to his outfit.
Cardigan
Offers a relaxed yet stylish addition to any outfit.
Her colorful cardigan added a pop of fun to her outfit.
Blazer
A blazer is a type of jacket resembling a suit jacket, but cut more casually. A blazer is generally distinguished from a sport coat as a more formal garment and tailored from solid colour fabrics.
Cardigan
A knitted jumper fastening down the front.
Blazer
A coloured jacket worn by schoolchildren or sports players as part of a uniform.
Cardigan
A knitted garment, such as a sweater or jacket, that opens down the full length of the front.
Blazer
A lightweight sports coat having pockets and notched lapels.
Cardigan
A type of sweater or jumper that fastens up the front with buttons or a zipper, usually machine- or hand-knitted from wool.
Blazer
A semi-formal jacket.
Cardigan
A warm jacket of knit worsted with or without sleeves, especially a knitted jacket with sleeves that is fastened up the front with buttons or a zipper.
Blazer
A person or thing that blazes (marks or cuts a route).
Cardigan
A slightly bow-legged variety of corgi having rounded ears and a long tail.
Blazer
Anything that blazes or glows, as with heat or flame.
Cardigan
Knitted jacket that is fastened up the front with buttons or a zipper
Blazer
The dish used when cooking directly over the flame of a chafing-dish lamp, or the coals of a brazier.
Cardigan
Slightly bow-legged variety of corgi having rounded ears and a long tail
Blazer
One who smokes cannabis; a stoner.
Blazer
(archaic) One who spreads news, or blazes matters abroad.
Blazer
An older member of a sporting club, often with old-fashioned or conservative views.
Blazer
A con or swindle.
Blazer
One who spreads reports or blazes matters abroad.
Blazer
Anything that blazes or glows, as with heat or flame.
Blazer
A light jacket, usually of wool or silk and of a bright color, for wear at tennis, cricket, or other sport.
Blazer
The dish used when cooking directly over the flame of a chafing-dish lamp, or the coals of a brasier.
Blazer
Lightweight single-breasted jacket; often striped in the colors of a club or school
Common Curiosities
Can blazers be worn casually?
Yes, blazers can be styled casually, especially when paired with jeans or casual trousers, but they inherently lend a more polished look to any outfit.
Are blazers suitable for all seasons?
Yes, blazers can be worn year-round, with fabric weight and lining adjusted for seasonal comfort. Lighter materials are preferred in warmer months, while heavier fabrics are suitable for cooler weather.
Are all cardigans knitted?
While traditional cardigans are knitted, modern variations can include other textures and materials, but the knit style remains most common.
How do I choose between a blazer and a cardigan?
Consider the occasion, desired comfort level, and the overall look you're aiming for. Blazers are best for formal looks, while cardigans offer comfort and versatility.
What's the difference in care between blazers and cardigans?
Blazers often require dry cleaning, especially those made from wool or linen, to maintain their structure. Cardigans are generally more low-maintenance, with many being machine washable.
Can cardigans be formal?
Some cardigans, especially those made from fine knit or featuring sophisticated designs, can be styled for smart-casual or semi-formal occasions.
How can I style a cardigan for a smart look?
Choose a fine-knit cardigan, button it over a collared shirt, and pair it with tailored trousers or a sleek skirt for a smart-casual ensemble.
Can women wear men's blazers or cardigans?
Absolutely. Fashion is increasingly gender-neutral, allowing for versatility and personal expression across all types of garments.
Is it appropriate to wear a cardigan for a job interview?
It depends on the industry and company culture. In creative or less formal sectors, a well-styled cardigan can be appropriate. For conservative fields, a blazer is a safer choice.
How has the blazer evolved in fashion?
Initially part of naval uniforms, the blazer has evolved into a versatile fashion staple, embracing various styles, colors, and materials to suit different occasions and trends.
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Written by
Urooj ArifUrooj is a skilled content writer at Ask Difference, known for her exceptional ability to simplify complex topics into engaging and informative content. With a passion for research and a flair for clear, concise writing, she consistently delivers articles that resonate with our diverse audience.
Co-written by
Fiza RafiqueFiza Rafique is a skilled content writer at AskDifference.com, where she meticulously refines and enhances written pieces. Drawing from her vast editorial expertise, Fiza ensures clarity, accuracy, and precision in every article. Passionate about language, she continually seeks to elevate the quality of content for readers worldwide.
