Shrug vs. Cardigan — What's the Difference?
Edited by Tayyaba Rehman — By Fiza Rafique — Updated on September 28, 2023
A shrug is a cropped, open-front garment covering the shoulders. A cardigan is a knitted sweater that opens at the front. Both are versatile layering pieces.
Difference Between Shrug and Cardigan
Table of Contents
ADVERTISEMENT
Key Differences
Shrug and Cardigan are both popular clothing items designed primarily for warmth and fashion. They differ in their design, coverage, and typical use.
A Shrug is usually a cropped garment, mainly covering the shoulders and upper arms. It often has a very open front or might have a small fastener. On the other hand, a Cardigan is more extended, resembling a sweater, and typically covers the entire torso.
The design of a Shrug often makes it suitable for wearing over dresses or sleeveless tops, providing a touch of warmth without overshadowing the outfit underneath. In contrast, a Cardigan is versatile enough to be worn over various tops, from t-shirts to blouses.
In terms of functionality, while both Shrug and Cardigan offer warmth, the latter is generally warmer due to its size and material. Cardigans can be buttoned or zipped up, providing a cozy feel.
Both Shrug and Cardigan come in various materials, patterns, and styles. Whether it's a lightweight summer Shrug or a chunky wool Cardigan for winter, both have established themselves as essential items in many wardrobes.
ADVERTISEMENT
Comparison Chart
Length
Cropped, covers shoulders
Extended, covers the torso
Opening
Very open front
Typically has buttons or a zipper
Purpose
Accentuate outfit, slight warmth
Versatile layer, more warmth
Common Material
Light knits, lace
Knitted yarn, wool, cotton
Typical Use
Over dresses or sleeveless tops
Over various tops, casual or formal
Compare with Definitions
Shrug
A short, open-fronted garment.
She wore a lace shrug over her sleeveless dress.
Cardigan
A knitted sweater with a front opening.
He wore a blue cardigan over his white shirt.
Shrug
A garment often without closures.
Her shrug draped elegantly without any buttons.
Cardigan
A cozy wear, often extending to the waist or below.
The long cardigan was almost like a coat.
Shrug
A fashionable addition to dresses.
The sequined shrug complemented her evening gown.
Cardigan
A versatile garment with buttons or a zipper.
Her cardigan buttoned up, keeping her warm.
Shrug
A cropped piece covering shoulders.
The shrug added a formal touch to her outfit.
Cardigan
A layering piece for various outfits.
The striped cardigan looked great with her jeans.
Shrug
A lightweight layering item.
On chilly evenings, a shrug provides just enough warmth.
Cardigan
Originating from the name of the 7th Earl of Cardigan.
The cardigan's history traces back to the 19th century.
Shrug
A shrug is a gesture performed by raising both shoulders, and is a representation of an individual either being indifferent about something or not knowing an answer to a question. A shrug is an emblem, meaning that it integrates the vocabulary of only certain cultures and may be used in place of words.
Cardigan
A knitted jumper fastening down the front.
Shrug
To raise (the shoulders), especially as a gesture of doubt, disdain, or indifference.
Cardigan
A knitted garment, such as a sweater or jacket, that opens down the full length of the front.
Shrug
To raise the shoulders, especially as a gesture of doubt, disdain, or indifference.
Cardigan
A type of sweater or jumper that fastens up the front with buttons or a zipper, usually machine- or hand-knitted from wool.
Shrug
An expressive gesture of raising the shoulders.
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.
Shrug
A very short jacket or sweater, having long or short sleeves and usually worn open down the front.
Cardigan
A slightly bow-legged variety of corgi having rounded ears and a long tail.
Shrug
A lifting of the shoulders to signal indifference or a casual lack of knowledge.
He dismissed my comment with a shrug.
Cardigan
Knitted jacket that is fastened up the front with buttons or a zipper
Shrug
A cropped, cardigan-like garment with short or long sleeves, typically knitted.
Cardigan
Slightly bow-legged variety of corgi having rounded ears and a long tail
Shrug
(ambitransitive) To raise (the shoulders) to express uncertainty, lack of concern, (formerly) dread, etc.
I asked him for an answer and he just shrugged.
When he saw the problem, he just shrugged and started fixing it.
Shrug
To draw up or contract (the shoulders), especially by way of expressing doubt, indifference, dislike, dread, or the like.
He shrugs his shoulders when you talk of securities.
Shrug
To raise or draw up the shoulders, as in expressing doubt, indifference, dislike, dread, or the like.
They grin, they shrug.They bow, they snarl, they snatch, they hug.
Shrug
A gesture consisting of drawing up the shoulders, - a motion usually expressing doubt, indifference, or dislike; - it is sometimes accompanied by a slight turning of the hands outward or upward. Such a gesture may be made, as in answering "who knows" to a question, suggesting utter ignorance of an answer and a disinclination to pursue the topic further.
On Sept. 23, in a major speech in New York, the chairman of the Securities and Exchange Commision, Arthur Levitt asked the Big Board to spike the rule [Rule 390] in the interest of free and unfettered markets. . . . Mr. Grasso responded with a shrug, saying that he had no plans to kill the rule.
The Spaniards talk in dialoguesOf heads and shoulders, nods and shrugs.
Shrug
A gesture involving the shoulders
Shrug
Raise one's shoulders to indicate indifference or resignation
Common Curiosities
Can a Shrug be worn with formal attire?
Yes, a shrug can accentuate formal outfits, especially dresses.
Can men wear Cardigans?
Absolutely, cardigans are unisex and popular among both genders.
Are Shrugs suitable for summer?
Lightweight shrugs can be perfect for summer evenings.
Is a Cardigan warmer than a Shrug?
Typically, yes, due to its larger size and material.
What's the origin of the term 'Cardigan'?
It's named after the 7th Earl of Cardigan, a British military leader.
Are Shrugs and Cardigans both types of sweaters?
Yes, both are types of sweaters but differ in length and style.
How do I care for my Cardigan?
Follow the care instructions, usually involving gentle washing.
Are there long Shrugs available?
While shrugs are typically short, longer versions exist, blurring the lines with cardigans.
How do I choose between a Shrug and a Cardigan?
Consider the outfit underneath, desired warmth, and look you're aiming for.
Do Shrugs come in various materials?
Yes, from knits to lace, shrugs can be made of diverse materials.
Can I wear a Cardigan as a top?
Yes, some people button up cardigans and wear them without an underlying shirt.
Which is more formal: a Shrug or a Cardigan?
Both can be formal or casual, depending on their design and what they're paired with.
Are Cardigans considered old-fashioned?
Not at all; cardigans have remained a timeless piece in fashion.
Can I knit my own Cardigan or Shrug?
Absolutely! Many knitting patterns are available for both.
What's the main difference between a Shrug and a Cardigan?
A shrug is cropped, mainly covering the shoulders, while a cardigan is longer, covering the torso.
Share Your Discovery
Previous Comparison
Purposeful vs. Purposive
Next Comparison
Libra vs. PoundAuthor Spotlight
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.
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.
