Women’s Woollen Cardigans

A chilly morning, a coffee in your hand, and a woollen cardigan wrapped around your shoulders. Sometimes that’s all you need. At Liebo, we love that feeling, and to be honest, we’re rather fond of wool itself too. Our family comes from a long line of shepherds, and we originally started out making woollen duvets. We now share that love of wool with you through our collection of women's woollen cardigans from carefully selected brands. These cardigans are inspired by traditional Irish knitting patterns such as cable stitches and Aran motifs, which symbolise warmth, craftsmanship and timeless quality. Looking for a men’s woollen cardigan? Take a look at our men's woollen cardigans.

Different Types of Wool in Our Woollen Cardigans

Not all wool is the same. The type of wool determines how soft a cardigan feels, how warm it is, and how it sits against your skin. In our collection, you’ll find the following types of wool:

Merino or Sheep’s Wool Cardigans?

Merino wool is also sheep’s wool, but specifically from the Merino sheep. The fiber is finer, making a merino cardigan feel softer and much less scratchy. Cardigans made from coarser sheep’s wool are sturdier and have a bit more character. If you have sensitive skin, opt for merino wool or a wool blend with cashmere.

What all wool has in common: it keeps you warm without making you feel clammy. Wool can absorb up to 30% of its own weight in moisture while still feeling dry to the touch. That makes a woollen cardigan suitable for every season.

Short, Long, or Hooded: Which Knitted Cardigan Suits You Best?

Which knitted cardigan for women you choose depends on how and where you plan to wear it:

• Short Woollen Cardigan: Falls on or just over the hip. Pairs beautifully with a dress or high-waisted trousers and gives you plenty of freedom of movement.

• Long Women’s Cardigan: Long cardigans feel like wrapping yourself in a soft blanket. Lovely for wearing at home, but equally elegant over a dress or thin jumper.

• Cable-Knit Cardigan: Classic cable stitches and Aran motifs originate from Irish knitting tradition. A cable-knit cardigan instantly adds character to any outfit.

• Hooded Cardigan: Great for walks and days when you’d like a little extra warmth. If the wind picks up, you can simply pull the hood over your head.

• Poncho: No sleeves, but plenty of wool. You drape it around yourself like a warm cardigan, and it matches almost any outfit.

Our cardigans come in a range of colours, from natural and beige to navy and deep red. Not sure which colour to choose? Beige or natural makes a lovely base that goes with everything. You can view the available sizes on each product page.

The Brands Behind Our Women’s Cardigans: From IrelandsEye to Knit Factory

We don't have our own brand. Instead, we choose brands whose values we know and trust.

• IrelandsEye, Aran Crafts, and Aran Woollen Mills are renowned for their Irish knitting heritage. Their cardigans are designed using patterns and techniques that have been passed down through generations.

• Pure Wool works with 100% New Zealand wool: pure, warm, and no-nonsense.

• Knit Factory is a Dutch brand featuring soft wool blends and contemporary colours. Perfect if you’re looking for a women's woollen cardigan with a modern twist.

We care deeply about animal welfare and are confident that our suppliers share our commitment to animal-friendly practices.

How to Style a Woollen Cardigan

A woollen cardigan is perhaps the most versatile piece in your wardrobe. You really see that versatility when you start pairing it up:

• Casual: Pair a short cardigan with jeans and a simple t-shirt.

• Smart: Wear a fine-gauge cardigan over a blouse. A V-neck cardigan shows off the collar nicely, even for formal occasions.

• Feminine: Throw a long cardigan on over a dress.

Can a woollen cardigan be worn as a jacket? On mild days in autumn and spring, absolutely. A thick cardigan made of sturdy sheep’s wool will keep you warm enough. When it gets really cold, wear it under your coat. That blend of comfort and warmth makes a woollen cardigan a true wardrobe staple.

Frequently Asked Questions About Woollen Cardigans

Is 100% wool warm?

Yes. Wool traps air between its fibres, providing excellent insulation. At the same time, it’s breathable, so you won’t overheat or sweat. A 100% wool cardigan is warm without feeling stuffy.

Which woollen cardigan doesn’t scratch?

A cardigan made from merino wool or wool blended with cashmere is the least scratchy because the fibres are much finer. If your cardigan still feels slightly itchy, wear a thin long-sleeved top underneath.

Can a woollen cardigan go in the washing machine?

Sometimes, using a wool cycle with cold water and a wool detergent. Always check the care label first. In fact, wool doesn't need to be washed very often—airing it out is usually enough. Read more in our blog post on washing a woollen jumper. Did something go wrong? Here's how to restore shrunk woollen clothing.

What should women wear under a cardigan?

A t-shirt, a blouse, a thin roll-neck jumper, or a dress. A thin layer works best underneath thick woollen jumpers and cardigans. That way, you can easily take your cardigan off if it gets warm indoors.

My cardigan is starting to pill—what should I do?

Bobbles are a natural part of genuine wool, especially at the beginning. A wool comb or fabric shaver will have your cardigan looking as good as new in no time. Read our top tips on what to do when wool starts to pill.

Alongside cardigans for women, you’ll also find woollen jumpers in our collection. Found your favourite woollen cardigan? We dispatch on Mondays and Fridays via PostNL, and your parcel will usually arrive shortly afterwards. Free UK/international shipping options apply as stated at checkout.

Tip! Pair your Irish woollen cardigan with elegant silver Irish jewellery for an authentic and stylish look.