Cardigans as articles of stylishly modest clothing

What defines modest clothing?

Modest clothing or modest fashion is usually defined as fashion style amongst women and men who wear clothes that reveal less skin. This choice of garment style often satisfies the traditional, folklore, and spiritual demands and preferences of an individual wearing them. Covering most of your body with clothing does not mean sacrificing style. Not at all. Aesthetically, when it comes to stylish outfits, loose clothing has become trendy in recent years. From oversized denim to oversized tees, blouses, and cardigans, these garments became some of the favorite pieces for women who practice stylish modesty.

Are modest outfits only for the pious?

Sometimes we tend to stereotype and say “Well, that type of clothing is worn only in theocentric regions such as the Middle East or the Vatican where people abide by the laws of the sacred texts and don’t want to deviate from the norms when it comes to clothing.” This is not the case today when modest fashion trends are on the rise and designed for people who prefer the oversized and relaxed leisurely look. Associating modest fashion with archaic looks and styles is a fallacy that has been disproven by many stylists and contemporary fashionistas.

Modest Fashions are a global trend

Modern and sophisticated modest fashion style is a global trend but the growth in popularity is on the rise in countries where this style of garments, whether it is cotton-made or knitwear, is not new but rather a norm. The popularity of long and oversized cardigans is growing amongst all ethnic and religious groups. Nowadays we have long cardigan sweaters designed and marketed with female missionaries, teachers, college students in mind.

Long cardigans are popular amongst Muslim women

Popularity is especially growing amongst young Muslim women worldwide. Although, compared to the growth of other articles of clothing in modest fashions, knitwear represents only a small but significant portion of that market. Of course, all women love cardigans but Muslim women who wear modest clothing find these timeless garments to be suitable outer layers they can wear with any outfit and match well with their headscarves, long dresses, and even purses. From Bosnia to Dubai, Muslim women love long knitted tunics and cardigans so much so that they often get them custom-made and feature them in fashion shows dedicated to stylish modest clothing. 

Maternity Cardigans-stylish modesty and elegance

Moms and moms-to-be often opt for a bit more modest clothing options for a variety of reasons. It gives them more privacy when they are on maternity leaves, nursing a newborn, or just not leaving the house for a prolonged period of time. Cardigans became so popular amongst young mothers that manufacturers oftentimes even label them “Maternity Cardigans.” (Long cardigans are often compared to knitted versions of bathrobes). Belted and chunky knit long or duster cardigans are often the sweaters of choice for young moms to be because they can put them on and take them off without laborious efforts. Preferred fabrics or yarn amongst young mothers is usually soft and lightweight wool or a blend of wool and cotton. Long and soft cardigans are often purchased for gifting to young moms and future moms. What is so nice about these long, open-front cardigans is that they allow you to select your own style of belt if you choose to purchase a beltless cardigan. We talk about belted cardigans more in this article. 

We have listed some popular maxi cardigans below

Style	Brand/Description	Fabric/Yarn
	Dearlovers Womens Open Front Button Down Casual Knitted Long Maxi Cardigans with Pockets	Nylon,Rayon,Spandex
	GRACE KARIN Essential Solid Open Front Maxi Long Knitted Cardigan Sweater for Women	65% Viscose, 35% Acrylic
	Isaac Liev Women’s Maxi Cardigan – Casual Long Flowy Open Front Floor Length Drape Lightweight Duster Sweater Made in USA	95% Rayon, 5% Spandex
	Motherhood Maternity Women’s Maternity Long Sleeve Drape Front Shawl Cardigan with Waist Tie Detail	55% Cotton, 30% Acrylic, 15% Polyester
	IN’VOLAND Women’s Plus Size Cardigan Long Sleeve Open Front Drape Cardigans Lightweight Long Duster（L-5XL）	Soft lightweight fabric is made from 95% Rayon and 5% Spandex
	Women’s Casual Long Sleeve Cardigans Open Front Soft Plush Knit Sweaters Cardigan Outerwear with Pockets Coat	Polyester/Nylon

Popular choice: Pendleton Women’s Merino Long Cardigan Sweater

This gorgeous women’s long cardigan comes in three colors and is made from 100% merino wool. If you are looking for a stylish cardigan sweater that is both, modest and chic, this is the one. Nice and comfy front pockets are great for your phone, car keys and will keep your hands cozy and warm. It is also very good as a WFH (Work From Home) outfit and you can easily wear it over your pajamas. Made by a reputable sweater maker “Pendelton” this cardigan won’t disappoint you. Please click on the image below for pricing and sizing info.

Our choice: CozyChic Lite Long Weekend Cardi, Long Sleeve Oversized Sweater by Barefoot Dreams

This open front, oversized long ladies’ cardigan gives you so much flexibility. It is made from a perfect blend of 75% Nylon 25% Rayon From Bamboo, which makes it machine washable and easy to care for. It comes with no buttons and gives you an opportunity to utilize a belt of your choice or just wear it as is. Pockets are deep and cozy. This sweater can be your “Work from home” attire or your morning outfit for a Starbucks run or a walk by the beach. Please click on the image for sizing and pricing info.

Some final thoughts

This universality of long cardigans as knitted garments for all occasions makes them desirable not only by women of various ethnic and religious backgrounds, mums-to-be but also by anyone who enjoys wearing modest but stylish clothing styles. Considering modest fashions are a growing trend, embracing them sooner by sporting a cardigan sweater that radiates that modest elegance is something all of us can do.