I remember reading long ago that Cindy Crawford did not like cardigans, and those words haunted me for years. “Why doesn’t she like cardigans?” I wondered. “They seem so innocent. Does she know something I don’t know?”

Turns out the answer was yes. Yes, she does.

She knows what I learned a little later in life, and that’s that the same cardigans that can look cute (if occasionally a little bit slouchy or sloppy) in your teens and 20s can make you look matronly in your 40s and 50s.

Teenagers aren’t the only ones that can pretty much wear any cardigan they want. The same thing is true of these people:

Today, I share my strategies for choosing and wearing cardigans that are modern and flattering. And you can find some current favorite cardigan picks right here.

The 7 Cardinal Cardigan Rules

Don’t fit any of the above categories? Neither do I. But don’t despair. Before you toss all your favorite cozy cardigans, check out these tips for buying, wearing, and styling them in a totally cute and not-at-all-frumpy way.

Make It Chunky

Fine knit cardigans can look frumpy, but chunkier cardigans are much more modern and therefore cooler. Chunky knits also add texture and interest to the most basic outfits.

Style Your Fine Knits

If you have tons of find knits in your closet, as I did, update them by styling them in a really contemporary way. Belting, tucking, and wrapping are all great options.

Wear Them Long Or Short

The most contemporary cardis are cropped or quite long. It’s the in-between length that is potentially frumpy.

Update Your Twinsets

Nothing is more aging than a classic twinset. Nothing. Fortunately, there are modern versions of this popular pairing that look very stylish.

Try A Chunky Statement Sweater

This season’s statement sweaters channel Beverly Goldberg, but there are options available that are more modern and wearable.

Don’t Match The Cardigan To The Top Or The Dress

A Garanimals look is never going to be flattering, so try neutral cardigans with statement tops or dresses instead.

Swap Your W’s

The swish-swish of the waterfall cardigan might seem forgiving, and it can be, but it’s also dated and therefore a little less than fresh looking. Same with a cocoon cardigan, which is not at all contemporary and also unflattering. Who needs the extra volume on the sides? Instead, choose a sleek and flattering wrap style cardigan.

And now I’d love to hear your thoughts? What do you struggle with when it comes to cardigans? And which of these tips was your favorite? Let me know in the comments!