French Women Will Never Remove This Spring Staple From Their Closets, Guaranteed

Though we're still a ways away from April 25, when "all you need is a light jacket," spring will eventually arrive at our doorsteps. And when it does, there's one staple none of our French friends are going to give up on: cardigans. No matter how many years pass or trends may come and go, people in Paris won't be giving up on their classic cardigans, especially during the spring when they become the ideal layering piece. Over the next few weeks, I'm expecting Parisians to start swapping out all of their chunky, cable-knit sweaters for lighter, spring-ready versions: cropped, floral, sheer, gingham—you name it.

If you're someone who lives in warmer climates, you can start wearing these lighter cardigans now. For everyone else, they're perfect for layering until spring emerges and you can gleefully ditch the outer layers and show off your cute cropped cardi. Scroll down to shop my 29 favorite lightweight spring cardigans and see how French women style theirs right now.

How French Women Style Cardigans

One way I've noticed all the French girls wear their cardigans is by fastening only the top button and wearing them open over a white tee for a cool layering moment.

Jacket-style cardigans are what feel very right now and French women are on board with the look, styling theirs as tops with mini skirts and jeans.

There are few things more classic, or classically Parisian, then a striped knit. You'll find the combination of a striped cardigan with jeans on virtually every block in the French capital in the spring.

In addition to super-simple cardigans, French women are into knits that feature more grandiose details like gold buttons.

They're also reaching for trending colors like burgundy and baby blue to make their cardigan outfits feel fresh.

Another prime example of French-girl cardigan styling: this time with Capri pants for an even more of-the-moment spin.

Cropped cardigan + slouchy jeans + retro sneakers = the ultimate casual-cool outfit for spring 2025.

Shop the Best Spring Cardigans