A New Day Cardigan

From skeptic to superfan – why these affordable cardigans became my wardrobe staples and everything you need to know before buying

I’ll be honest with you – I used to be that person who rolled my eyes at Target clothing. “It’s just fast fashion,” I’d think smugly while browsing more expensive boutiques. But life has a funny way of humbling you, and my humbling came in the form of a soft, buying guide for A New Day Cardigan quest that completely changed my perspective on affordable fashion.

It started innocently enough. I was rushing through Target for toothpaste (isn’t that always how these stories begin?) when I spotted a woman in the softest-looking cream cardigan. She looked effortlessly put-together – the kind of polished casual I’d been trying to achieve for years. When I complimented her on it, she smiled and said, “Oh, this old thing? It’s from A New Day – Target’s brand. I have five of them now.”

Five? That intrigued me enough to venture into the clothing section, and what I discovered there launched me into a deep dive that would ultimately revolutionize my entire approach to layering pieces.

My First A New Day Cardigan Encounter

Walking into Target’s clothing section that day, I was immediately struck by the A New Day cardigan display. The colors were gorgeous – not the garish brights I’d expected, but sophisticated neutrals and rich jewel tones that looked far more expensive than their price tags suggested. I picked up a dusty rose open-front cardigan, and the first thing that surprised me was the weight. It felt substantial without being heavy, with a drape that suggested quality construction.

The price tag read $19.99. I actually looked around to make sure I wasn’t in some clearance section. This couldn’t be the regular price for something that felt this nice, could it?

I took it to the fitting room with skepticism intact. But when I slipped it on over my basic tee and jeans, something magical happened. The cardigan transformed my entire look from “I threw this on to run errands” to “I definitely have my life together.” The cut was flattering, hitting at just the right spot on my hips, and the fabric had a luxurious feel that defied its budget-friendly price point.

That was cardigan number one. As I write this now, eighteen months later, I own seven A New Day cardigans, and I’m not even slightly embarrassed about it.

Diving Deep: What Styles Are Actually Available?

My buying guide for A New Day Cardigan research became somewhat obsessive after that first purchase. I made multiple Target trips, scoured the website, and even started following fashion bloggers who regularly featured the brand. What I discovered was a surprisingly diverse range of styles that could work for virtually any lifestyle or aesthetic preference.

The open-front cardigans are probably what most people think of when they hear “A New Day cardigan.” These are the effortless throw-on pieces that instantly elevate any outfit. They come in various lengths – from cropped styles that hit at the natural waist to longer dusters that graze mid-thigh. I have both, and I’ve found the cropped versions work beautifully with high-waisted bottoms, while the longer styles are perfect for creating those Instagram-worthy layered looks over dresses.

Then there are the button-front cardigans, which offer more versatility in styling. You can wear them fully buttoned as a sweater, partially buttoned for a more relaxed vibe, or completely open like a light jacket. The button quality has consistently impressed me – they’re not the cheap plastic ones you might expect, but substantial buttons that feel secure and look polished.

The cropped cardigans deserve special mention because they’ve become my secret weapon for work outfits. There’s something about a well-fitted cropped cardigan that makes even the most basic blouse and pants combination look intentional and professional. A New Day offers these in both fitted and relaxed cuts, so you can choose based on your personal style and comfort preferences.

For those who love the oversized trend, the boyfriend-style cardigans are absolute game-changers. These are designed to look like you borrowed them from someone larger, but they’re actually tailored to be flattering rather than just baggy. I have one in a rich burgundy that I wear constantly during fall and winter – it’s like wearing a stylish hug.

The Great Sizing Investigation

One of the biggest questions I had during my buying guide for A New Day Cardigan journey was about sizing consistency. We’ve all been burned by brands where a medium in one style fits like a large in another, so I approached this systematically.

Over the course of several months, I tried on cardigans in multiple styles and sizes, and I’m happy to report that A New Day cardigans are remarkably true to size. I’m typically a medium in most brands, and the medium consistently fits well across different cardigan styles. The sizing chart on Target’s website is accurate, which is refreshing in an era where online shopping can feel like a guessing game.

That said, there are a few nuances worth noting. The oversized styles are intentionally loose, so if you prefer a more fitted look, you might want to size down. Conversely, if you’re planning to layer heavy sweaters underneath, sizing up might be wise. I learned this the hard way when I bought my usual medium in a fitted style, planning to wear it over chunky sweaters, only to find it too snug for comfortable layering.

The plus-size options deserve praise here. A New Day extends most of their cardigan styles up to 4X, and from what I’ve observed (and heard from friends who wear these sizes), the proportions are well-thought-out rather than simply scaled up. The brand seems to understand that plus-size customers want the same stylish options as everyone else, not just basic, shapeless coverage.

Material Matters: What You’re Actually Getting

When I first started my buying guide for A New Day Cardigan research, I was prepared for disappointment in the materials department. How good could the fabric possibly be at this price point? Surprisingly good, it turns out.

Most A New Day cardigans are made from cotton blends – typically cotton mixed with polyester and sometimes a small percentage of spandex for stretch. Before you wrinkle your nose at polyester, hear me out. In these blends, it actually serves important purposes: it helps the garments hold their shape after washing, reduces wrinkles, and contributes to the overall durability.

The cotton provides breathability and softness, while the polyester adds structure. The spandex content (usually 2-5%) gives just enough stretch to make the cardigans comfortable for all-day wear without them becoming baggy or losing their shape.

I have cardigans from this line that I’ve owned for over a year and worn dozens of times, and they still look remarkably close to new. The fabric doesn’t pill excessively, the colors haven’t faded significantly, and the shape remains true to the original fit.

Some of the newer styles incorporate modal or rayon blends, which add an extra touch of softness and drape beautifully. These tend to be slightly more expensive (we’re talking $24.99 instead of $19.99), but the upgrade in hand feel is noticeable.

For those concerned about synthetic materials and environmental impact, I understand the hesitation. However, I’ve found that the durability of these pieces actually makes them more sustainable than some “natural” options that might wear out quickly and need frequent replacement.

The Price Point Reality Check

Let’s talk numbers, because the pricing is probably what drew many of us to investigate A New Day cardigans in the first place. The typical price range is $16.99 to $29.99, with most styles falling in the $19.99-$24.99 range.

To put this in perspective, I compared it to similar pieces from other retailers during my research phase. A comparable cardigan from Gap might run $40-$60, while something from Anthropologie could easily cost $80-$120. Even fast fashion retailers like H&M or Forever 21 often charge $25-$35 for similar pieces, and the quality doesn’t necessarily match what you get from A New Day.

The brand frequently runs promotions that make these prices even more attractive. Target’s regular “Buy 2, Get 1 Free” promotions on A New Day items happen several times a year, effectively bringing the per-piece cost down to around $13-$16. I’ve timed several of my cardigan purchases around these sales, and it’s allowed me to experiment with colors and styles I might not have tried at full price.

Seasonal clearance events are another opportunity for savings. At the end of each season, Target typically marks down A New Day items by 30-50%. I’ve scored cardigans for as little as $9.99 during these clearances, though you have to be flexible about color and size selection.

Color Psychology: The A New Day Palette

The color selection in A New Day cardigans has genuinely impressed me throughout my ownership experience. Rather than just offering basic black, white, and gray, the brand provides a thoughtfully curated palette that changes seasonally while maintaining classic options year-round.

The neutral foundation includes multiple shades of black, white, cream, beige, gray, and camel. But these aren’t just basic neutrals – they’re sophisticated versions with subtle undertones that make them more interesting. The “cream” isn’t stark white but has warm undertones that complement most skin tones. The “charcoal” gray has depth that makes it far more versatile than basic gray.

Seasonal colors are where A New Day really shines. Spring collections might include soft lavenders, sage greens, and dusty pinks. Summer brings coral, navy, and crisp whites. Fall is all about rich burgundies, deep forest greens, and warm rust tones. Winter sees the return of jewel tones like emerald, sapphire, and deep plum.

I’ve found that having cardigans in multiple colors has exponentially increased my outfit options. A simple white tee and jeans can look completely different depending on whether I throw on a black cardigan (classic and polished), a sage green one (fresh and modern), or a burgundy option (rich and sophisticated).

The brand also does limited edition colors throughout the year, often tied to current fashion trends. Last year’s “millennial pink” phase was represented, as was the recent “sage and eucalyptus” trend. These limited options let you participate in current fashion moments without committing to expensive trend pieces.

Weight and Seasonality: Year-Round Versatility

One question that came up repeatedly in my buying guide for A New Day Cardigan research was about weight and seasonal appropriateness. The answer is delightfully complex because A New Day offers options for every season and climate.

The lightweight cardigans are perfect for air-conditioned offices, cool summer evenings, or transitional weather. These are thin enough to tie around your waist when not needed but substantial enough to provide actual warmth. I keep one in my car year-round because you never know when indoor air conditioning will be overly aggressive.

Medium-weight options work beautifully for spring and fall layering. They’re substantial enough to serve as outerwear during mild weather but not so heavy that they become uncomfortable when worn indoors. These have become my go-to pieces for the unpredictable weather we get during seasonal transitions.

The heavier knit cardigans are wonderful for actual cold weather layering. While they’re not substitute for a proper winter coat, they work excellently as mid-layers or for indoor winter wear. I have a chunky knit A New Day cardigan that I wear constantly during the colder months, and it provides surprising warmth for such an affordable piece.

This variety means you can wear A New Day cardigans year-round if you choose your weights appropriately. In summer, I reach for the lightest options in breathable colors. Winter calls for the heavier knits in darker, warmer tones. Spring and fall are perfect for the medium-weight options in seasonal colors.

Layering Mastery: Why These Cardigans Excel

The true test of any cardigan is how well it layers, and this is where A New Day cardigans truly shine as layering pieces. The cut and construction of these garments seem specifically designed with layering in mind.

The armholes are properly sized to accommodate tops underneath without creating bulk or restriction. I can comfortably wear everything from tank tops to light sweaters under these cardigans without feeling constrained or looking bulky.

The shoulder construction is particularly well-done. The seams sit where they should, creating a clean line that doesn’t add unwanted bulk to your silhouette. This might seem like a small detail, but it’s the difference between looking polished and looking like you’re wearing someone else’s clothes.

The length options make them versatile for different layering scenarios. Cropped cardigans work beautifully over fitted tops with high-waisted bottoms, creating a balanced silhouette. Longer cardigans are perfect for layering over dresses or creating interesting proportions with fitted bottoms.

I’ve successfully layered A New Day cardigans over everything from basic tees to button-down shirts to thin sweaters. The key is choosing the right weight and fit for what you’re wearing underneath, but the brand provides enough options to make this achievable.

Professional Polish: Work Wardrobe Integration

One unexpected discovery during my buying guide for A New Day Cardigan journey was how perfectly these pieces integrate into professional wardrobes. A New Day cardigans are excellent for work outfits because they strike the perfect balance between polished and approachable.

In conservative office environments, the button-front cardigans work beautifully as sweater alternatives. Worn fully buttoned over a collared shirt, they provide the coverage and professionalism of a blazer with more comfort and movement. The neutral colors blend seamlessly with traditional office wear.

For business casual settings, the open-front cardigans are perfect for adding a polished layer to blouse-and-pants combinations. They provide just enough structure to look intentional while maintaining the relaxed feel that business casual environments call for.

Creative workplaces can embrace the more casual styling options. An oversized cardigan over a simple dress with ankle boots creates an effortlessly chic look that’s professional but not stuffy.

The machine-washable nature of these cardigans is a huge advantage for work wear. Unlike dry-clean-only blazers, you can easily maintain these pieces, which is both convenient and cost-effective for building a professional wardrobe.

Care and Durability: The Long-Term Perspective

Machine washability was a major selling point for me when considering A New Day cardigans. As someone who finds dry cleaning both inconvenient and expensive, knowing I could easily care for these pieces at home was important.

Most A New Day cardigans can be machine washed in cold water and either tumble dried on low or air dried. I’ve had the best results with air drying, as it helps maintain the shape and prevents any potential shrinkage. The care instructions are clearly labeled and easy to follow.

Durability has exceeded my expectations across all the cardigans I own. I have pieces that I’ve worn dozens of times over more than a year, and they still look remarkably good. There’s minimal pilling, the colors have remained vibrant, and the shape has held up well.

The button quality deserves special mention – I haven’t had a single button come loose or break, which is impressive given how frequently I wear these pieces. The button holes have also maintained their shape and don’t show signs of stretching or fraying.

Color retention has been excellent across different shades. I was particularly concerned about the lighter colors showing wear or staining, but they’ve held up beautifully with proper care.

Comparison Shopping: How A New Day Stacks Up

During my buying guide for A New Day Cardigan research, I made it a point to compare these pieces to similar options from other retailers. The results were eye-opening.

Against other budget retailers like H&M or Forever 21, A New Day cardigans consistently offered better construction, more thoughtful design details, and superior durability. The price points were comparable, but the quality was noticeably higher.

Compared to mid-range brands like Gap, Old Navy, or Loft, A New Day held its own surprisingly well. While these brands might offer slightly better fabric blends or construction details, the price difference (often 2-3 times higher) didn’t justify the marginal quality improvements for my needs.

Against high-end retailers, the differences were more pronounced, but so were the prices. A $200 cardigan from Nordstrom will certainly have superior fabric and construction, but whether that justifies the 10x price difference depends entirely on your budget and priorities.

The sweet spot that A New Day occupies is perfect for building a versatile cardigan wardrobe without breaking the bank. You can own multiple colors and styles for the price of one higher-end piece, giving you more outfit options and reducing the pressure on any single garment.

Styling Versatility: From Casual to Elegant

The styling versatility of A New Day cardigans has been one of their most valuable features in my wardrobe. These pieces seamlessly transition between different dress codes and occasions with minor styling adjustments.

For casual weekend looks, I love pairing an oversized cardigan with fitted jeans and sneakers. The cardigan adds a put-together element to what might otherwise be a very basic outfit. Adding accessories like a statement necklace or scarf can elevate the look further.

Date night styling works beautifully with the more fitted cardigans. A black button-front cardigan over a sleek dress with heels creates an elegant look that’s appropriate for dinner or cultural events. The cardigan adds sophistication while providing practical coverage.

Travel outfits benefit enormously from cardigan layering. The lightweight options are perfect for flights – easy to remove if you get warm, substantial enough to provide comfort in cold airplane cabins. They also pack well and don’t wrinkle significantly.

Seasonal styling is where the color variety really shines. Spring calls for lighter colors paired with white jeans or flowy skirts. Summer evening events work well with lightweight cardigans over sundresses. Fall is perfect for rich colors with boots and scarves. Winter layering can incorporate the heavier knits under coats or over warm base layers.

The Sustainability Question

As someone who’s become increasingly conscious about fashion’s environmental impact, the sustainability aspects of A New Day cardigans were important to consider during my buying guide research.

While these aren’t marketed as specifically eco-friendly options, their durability and versatility make them more sustainable than many alternatives. The ability to wear pieces for years rather than seasons reduces the overall environmental impact per wear.

The synthetic blend fabrics, while not as environmentally friendly as pure natural fibers, do contribute to the longevity of the garments. Pieces that maintain their shape and appearance longer reduce the need for frequent replacement.

Target has made commitments to more sustainable practices across their private label brands, including efforts to source more sustainable materials and improve manufacturing processes. While A New Day may not be at the forefront of these initiatives yet, the brand appears to be moving in a more sustainable direction.

The affordability factor also contributes to sustainability by making quality layering pieces accessible to more people. When you can afford to buy well-made pieces that last, you’re less likely to cycle through disposable fashion options.

Finding and Buying: Where and When to Shop

A New Day cardigans are primarily available at Target stores and Target.com, though they occasionally appear on other platforms during clearance events. The selection varies significantly between stores, with larger Target locations typically carrying more styles and sizes.

Online shopping through Target.com offers the fullest selection and the ability to read customer reviews. The website’s filtering options make it easy to narrow down choices by size, color, price, and style. Target’s return policy is generous, allowing returns within 90 days with receipt.

In-store shopping allows you to feel the fabrics and try on different sizes, which I’d recommend for your first A New Day cardigan purchase. Once you’re familiar with the sizing and quality, online shopping becomes more straightforward.

Timing your purchases can lead to significant savings. Target typically introduces new A New Day collections at the beginning of each season, with older styles going on clearance. Shopping during Target’s frequent promotional events (like “Buy 2, Get 1 Free” sales) can stretch your budget further.

Target Circle membership (which is free) provides access to additional deals and early sale notifications. The Target RedCard (both debit and credit versions) offers 5% off all purchases, which adds up when you’re building a cardigan collection.

Customer Reviews and Real-World Feedback

Part of my buying guide for A New Day Cardigan research involved reading hundreds of customer reviews across multiple platforms. The feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, with consistent themes emerging.

Comfort and fit are the most frequently praised aspects. Customers consistently mention how soft the cardigans feel and how well they fit across different body types. The true-to-size nature of the sizing gets frequent mentions.

Value for money is another common theme. Many reviewers express surprise at the quality relative to the price point, echoing my own experience with these pieces.

Durability concerns do appear in some reviews, though they’re relatively rare. The most common complaints involve pilling after extended wear or shrinkage if care instructions aren’t followed properly.

Color accuracy gets positive mentions, with customers noting that the online photos accurately represent the actual colors of the garments.

Styling versatility is frequently highlighted, with reviewers sharing photos of the same cardigan styled for different occasions.

Building Your A New Day Cardigan Collection

If you’re convinced to start building your own collection, I recommend starting with two or three versatile pieces in neutral colors. A black or charcoal cardigan, a cream or beige option, and perhaps a navy piece will provide maximum styling flexibility.

Consider your lifestyle when choosing styles. If you work in a professional environment, button-front cardigans might be more versatile. If your style is more casual, open-front or oversized options might suit you better.

Think about weight and seasonality based on your climate. If you live somewhere with distinct seasons, having cardigans in different weights will extend their usefulness throughout the year.

Don’t be afraid to experiment with color once you have your neutral foundation. The affordable price point makes it low-risk to try colors you might not normally choose.

Watch for sales and promotions to maximize your budget. Building a collection slowly during promotional periods is more cost-effective than buying everything at once at full price.

Final Thoughts: Why These Cardigans Earned My Loyalty

My journey with A New Day cardigans has been unexpectedly transformative. What started as a skeptical investigation into budget fashion has resulted in a deep appreciation for thoughtful design at accessible price points.

These cardigans have proven that good style doesn’t require a luxury budget. They’ve become the workhorses of my wardrobe – the pieces I reach for when I want to look put-together without much effort. They’ve survived countless washes, dozens of wears, and all sorts of styling experiments while maintaining their shape and appearance.

The buying guide for A New Day Cardigan journey taught me to look beyond price tags and brand names to focus on actual quality and versatility. These pieces have earned their place in my wardrobe through consistent performance, not marketing hype.

Whether you’re building your first professional wardrobe, looking to refresh your casual pieces, or simply wanting reliable layering options, A New Day cardigans offer an accessible entry point into quality basics. They prove that sometimes the best fashion discoveries happen in the most unexpected places – even in the clothing section of Target while you’re shopping for toothpaste.

In a fashion landscape often dominated by extremes – either ultra-fast fashion or luxury price points – A New Day cardigans occupy a sweet spot that makes quality, stylish basics accessible to everyone. And in my book, that’s something worth celebrating, one cozy cardigan at a time.