Cardigan vs. Jacket — What's the Difference?
Edited by Tayyaba Rehman — By Maham Liaqat — Updated on April 3, 2024
A cardigan is a type of knitted garment with an open front, often buttoned, whereas a jacket is a more structured outer garment, usually made of heavier materials and often designed for warmth or protection.
Difference Between Cardigan and Jacket
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Key Differences
Cardigans are typically made from wool or cotton, making them ideal for layering in cooler weather. They're known for their comfort and versatility, fitting seamlessly into both casual and formal settings. On the other hand, jackets are constructed from a variety of materials, including leather, denim, and synthetic fabrics, and are often lined for extra warmth. Their design focuses on providing protection from the elements, making them a practical choice for outdoor wear.
The open-front style of cardigans allows for easy wear and removal, catering to a relaxed fit that can accommodate various types of clothing underneath. Jackets, however, feature zippers, buttons, or snaps, securing the garment closely to the body and often defining the silhouette more sharply.
Cardigans can be found in numerous styles, from the traditional button-up to modern, waterfall drapes. This diversity makes them a staple in wardrobes of all ages. Jackets are equally varied, ranging from formal blazers to rugged bomber jackets, each catering to different occasions and personal styles.
The maintenance of a cardigan typically involves simple washing and drying, as most are made from materials that do not require special care. Jackets, especially those made from leather or specialty fabrics, often require professional cleaning to preserve their shape, texture, and color.
In terms of history, cardigans trace their origins back to the 19th century, named after the 7th Earl of Cardigan. They were initially part of military uniform, which later transitioned into civilian wear. Jackets have a broader historical footprint, evolving over centuries as practical garments for various occupations and climates, reflecting changes in fashion and technology.
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Comparison Chart
Material
Often wool or cotton
Varied, including leather, denim, synthetic
Closure
Open front, sometimes with buttons
Zippers, buttons, snaps
Style
Casual to semi-formal
Casual to formal
Maintenance
Generally machine washable
Often requires professional cleaning
Origin
Named after 7th Earl of Cardigan, 19th century
Evolved over centuries for practical use
Compare with Definitions
Cardigan
A versatile layering piece.
He chose a cardigan for its ease of removal in fluctuating office temperatures.
Jacket
May have specialized features like insulation.
The jacket’s down insulation kept him warm in winter.
Cardigan
Available in various lengths and styles.
She preferred long cardigans for their flattering silhouette.
Jacket
A garment for the upper body, typically extending below the hips.
She grabbed her leather jacket for the motorcycle ride.
Cardigan
Often features buttons or a tie at the front.
Her cardigan had delicate pearl buttons down the front.
Jacket
Often part of a uniform or suit.
His suit included a tailored jacket that matched the trousers.
Cardigan
A soft, knitted sweater open at the front.
She wore a light cardigan over her dress to keep off the chill.
Jacket
Can denote certain professions or affiliations.
The chef’s jacket was white with the restaurant's logo.
Cardigan
Can be dressed up or down.
For the meeting, he paired his cardigan with a crisp shirt and tie.
Jacket
Designed for outdoor wear.
His waterproof jacket was essential for the hiking trip.
Cardigan
A knitted jumper fastening down the front.
Jacket
A jacket is a garment for the upper body, usually extending below the hips. A jacket typically has sleeves, and fastens in the front or slightly on the side.
Cardigan
A knitted garment, such as a sweater or jacket, that opens down the full length of the front.
Jacket
A short coat usually extending to the hips.
Cardigan
A type of sweater or jumper that fastens up the front with buttons or a zipper, usually machine- or hand-knitted from wool.
Jacket
The skin of a potato.
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.
Jacket
The dust jacket of a book or phonograph record.
Cardigan
A slightly bow-legged variety of corgi having rounded ears and a long tail.
Jacket
An insulation covering for a steam pipe, wire, boiler, or similar part.
Cardigan
Knitted jacket that is fastened up the front with buttons or a zipper
Jacket
An open envelope or folder for filing papers.
Cardigan
Slightly bow-legged variety of corgi having rounded ears and a long tail
Jacket
The outer metal shell or case of a bullet.
Jacket
A piece of jewelry or other ornament that attaches to an earring stud.
Jacket
To supply or cover with a jacket.
Jacket
A piece of clothing worn on the upper body outside a shirt or blouse, often waist length to thigh length.
Jacket
A piece of a person's suit, beside trousers and, sometimes, waistcoat; coat US
Jacket
A protective or insulating cover for an object (e.g. a book, hot water tank, bullet.)
Jacket
(slang) A police record.
Jacket
(military) In ordnance, a strengthening band surrounding and reinforcing the tube in which the charge is fired.
Jacket
The tough outer skin of a baked potato.
Cook the potatoes in their jackets.
Jacket
(Jamaica) A bastard child, in particular one whose father is unaware that they are not the child’s biological father.
Jacket
(Appalachian) A vestUS; a waistcoat UK
Jacket
To confine (someone) to a straitjacket.
Jacket
(transitive) To enclose or encase in a jacket or other covering.
Jacket
A short upper garment, extending downward to the hips; a short coat without skirts.
Jacket
An outer covering for anything, esp. a covering of some nonconducting material such as wood or felt, used to prevent radiation of heat, as from a steam boiler, cylinder, pipe, etc.
Jacket
In ordnance, a strengthening band surrounding and reënforcing the tube in which the charge is fired.
Jacket
A garment resembling a waistcoat lined with cork, to serve as a life preserver; - called also cork jacket.
Jacket
To put a jacket on; to furnish, as a boiler, with a jacket.
Jacket
To thrash; to beat.
Jacket
A short coat
Jacket
An outer wrapping or casing;
Phonograph records were sold in cardboard jackets
Jacket
(dentistry) an artificial crown fitted over a broken or decayed tooth
Jacket
The outer skin of a potato
Jacket
The tough metal shell casing for certain kinds of ammunition
Jacket
Provide with a thermally non-conducting cover;
The tubing needs to be jacketed
Jacket
Put a jacket on;
The men were jacketed
Common Curiosities
Are cardigans suitable for men?
Yes, cardigans are versatile garments that are suitable for both men and women.
Are all jackets waterproof?
No, not all jackets are waterproof. The feature depends on the material and design of the jacket.
Is it okay to wear a cardigan with a dress?
Absolutely, cardigans can complement dresses well, adding warmth and style.
Can a jacket be a statement piece in an outfit?
Definitely, jackets can be statement pieces, especially those with unique designs, colors, or textures.
Can jackets have fur linings?
Yes, some jackets feature fur linings for added warmth and luxury.
Are bomber jackets only for men?
No, bomber jackets are popular among both men and women for their versatile and fashionable design.
Can jackets be worn in all seasons?
Yes, jackets vary in thickness and material, making them suitable for different seasons, from lightweight spring jackets to heavy winter coats.
Do cardigans need to be buttoned up?
No, cardigans can be worn open or buttoned, depending on personal preference and style.
Are cardigans only for cooler weather?
No, cardigans can be worn in all seasons, depending on the material and weight of the knit.
Can cardigans be formal?
Yes, some cardigans are designed for formal occasions, especially when made of fine materials and paired with dress attire.
Do cardigans come in different lengths?
Yes, cardigans come in various lengths, from cropped styles to those that fall past the hips.
Are denim jackets considered casual?
Yes, denim jackets are typically considered casual wear, though they can be styled in versatile ways.
Is there a difference between a blazer and a jacket?
Yes, blazers are a type of jacket, usually more formal, often part of a suit or uniform.
Can a jacket be tailored?
Yes, jackets can be tailored to fit better, although the feasibility depends on the jacket's design and material.
Can a leather jacket be washed?
Leather jackets should not be washed in water; they require special cleaning methods to maintain their condition.
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Written by
Maham Liaqat
Edited by
Tayyaba RehmanTayyaba Rehman is a distinguished writer, currently serving as a primary contributor to askdifference.com. As a researcher in semantics and etymology, Tayyaba's passion for the complexity of languages and their distinctions has found a perfect home on the platform. Tayyaba delves into the intricacies of language, distinguishing between commonly confused words and phrases, thereby providing clarity for readers worldwide.
