What is the Difference Between Jumper and Cardigan?

The main difference between a jumper and a cardigan lies in their front opening and styling. Here are the key distinctions:

• Jumper: A jumper is a long-sleeved, knitted or crocheted garment worn on the top half of the body. It is typically pullover style, meaning it does not have a front opening and is put on by pulling it over the head. In the UK, the term "jumper" may also refer to a dress worn over another dress.
• Cardigan: A cardigan is a knitted garment that has an opening at the front. It is worn over a shirt or T-shirt and can be closed through buttons, zippers, or Velcro. Cardigans are considered more mature and dignified than jumpers and are often seen in office settings. They come in various necklines, with the V-neck style being the most common.

Both jumpers and cardigans can be made from wool, acrylic fibers, or a blend of the two. While the terms "jumper" and "sweater" are often used interchangeably, they generally refer to the same item, with "jumper" being more common in the UK and "sweater" being more common in the USA.

Comparative Table: Jumper vs Cardigan

The main differences between jumpers and cardigans are:

• Worn over: Jumpers are dresses to be worn overhead over another dress, while cardigans are full-sleeved knitted garments worn over a shirt or T-shirt.

• Front opening: Jumpers are never open from the front, whereas cardigans are always open at the front, whether they are fastened, zipped, or closed using Velcro.

• Collar: Cardigans are generally collarless, but there are collared and sleeveless versions available.

• Usage: Jumpers are understood as dresses over dresses and are worn by girls and ladies in the US. In Britain, the term "jumper" refers to a pullover or sweater. Cardigans are considered more mature and dignified than jumpers and are often seen in offices with executives donning them over their shirts.

Here is a table summarizing the differences between jumpers and cardigans: