One Hollywood Stars: Reader Question Back to Basics Part 3: Basic Cardigan

Part 3 of the EWP Essentials series brings us one of my major wardrobe staples: a basic, fitted cardigan. Both a fashion statement and a way to keep warm, cardigans can be that pop of color you need for a layering piece or give you the warmth to be a jacket alternative. And as a general hater of bulky winter sweaters, I get through Chicago's nasty winter months by just tossing a cardigan over one of my fave work tops or dresses. Keeps you warm, but cuts the bulk.

I love love love cardigans. I was recently told that one of my greatest achievements is my considerable cardigan collection. I will take this as a compliment. Now we aren't talking librarian, large, pocketed cardigans. I mean a preferably 3/4 sleeve, fitted number, that accents your waist, doesn't drown it. My fave such cardigan is the Jackie cardigan from J.Crew. I'm in love with it. It comes in 1,000 colors and fits just right.

Keeping this to streamlined on a budget basics, I've kept away from long cardigans you can belt over a dress (we'll save those for another day), sticking to the more traditional crewneck button down version, and all the options below are under $90!