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Wed, February 4, 2026
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Dakota Johnson's Cardigan Style: A Decoding
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Published in Travel and Leisure on Wednesday, February 4th 2026 at 6:01 GMT by Travel + LeisureLocales: UNITED STATES, ITALY
Deconstructing the Dakota Cardigan Code
Several key elements consistently appear in Johnson's cardigan choices, offering valuable lessons for those looking to emulate her style:
The Knit is King: Comfort is paramount. Johnson favors soft, natural fibers like cashmere and merino wool. These materials not only feel luxurious against the skin but also offer superior warmth and breathability. While cashmere carries a higher price tag, opting for merino wool or even high-quality cotton blends can provide a similar level of comfort at a more accessible price point.
Neutral Territory: While fashion allows for experimentation, Johnson generally sticks to a neutral color palette for her cardigans. Beige, cream, grey, and navy are her go-to shades. These colors serve as a blank canvas, seamlessly integrating with a wide range of outfits and minimizing the risk of clashing. This is particularly valuable when packing light - a neutral cardigan can be paired with nearly anything in your suitcase.
Length & Silhouette: Johnson leans towards longer, more relaxed-fit cardigans. This silhouette offers a flattering drape and adds a touch of sophistication to an otherwise casual outfit. Cropped cardigans can work well too, but the longer length provides greater coverage and versatility. An oversized fit adds to the overall comfort and effortless vibe.
The Power of Texture: While color is important, don't underestimate the impact of texture. Ribbed knits, cable knits, and pointelle patterns add visual interest and depth to an outfit. These subtle details elevate the look beyond basic minimalism.
Beyond the Inspiration: The Rise of 'Comfort Core' Fashion
Dakota Johnson's cardigan obsession isn't happening in a vacuum. It reflects a broader trend towards 'comfort core' fashion - a movement prioritizing practicality, ease, and quality over fleeting trends. Post-pandemic, there's been a noticeable shift in consumer preferences, with people increasingly seeking out clothing that supports their active lifestyles and prioritizes comfort without sacrificing style. The demand for soft, versatile pieces like cardigans, comfortable knitwear, and relaxed-fit denim is steadily rising.
Where to Shop the Look
Fortunately, replicating Johnson's style is surprisingly affordable. Retailers like Madewell, Everlane, H&M, and Aerie offer a range of cardigan options that capture the essence of her look. (Examples from the original article include: Madewell Oversized Cardigan - $88, Everlane Organic Cotton Crew Cardigan - $68, H&M Knit Cardigan - $39.99, Aerie Cozy Cardigan - $49.95). The key is to focus on quality materials and a relaxed fit.
Ultimately, Dakota Johnson's cardigan-centric travel style isn't about following a rigid set of rules. It's about embracing comfort, versatility, and personal style. It's a reminder that looking good doesn't require sacrificing practicality, and that sometimes, the simplest outfits are the most impactful.
Read the Full Travel + Leisure Article at:
[ https://www.travelandleisure.com/dakota-johnson-inspired-cardigan-travel-outfits-writer-picks-11898623 ]
