If you spend any time scrolling on social media, there's a very good chance you've come across the ultra-chic Emilie Lady Jacket from J.Crew. It's a top-rated cardigan that women of all sizes and ages can't get enough of because it's the ultimate layering piece in colder weather — and because it looks good on everyone. Seriously! There are a bunch of ways to wear it, whether with jeans or over a dress, and the timeless silhouette adds instant class to any ensemble. The only problem? Even on sale, the J.Crew option starts at $80. But we've found an affordable alternative: The Lillusory Striped Cardigan, marked down as low as $20 now.
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While the J.Crew sweater is 100% cotton, this Amazon version is made from viscose, polyamide and polyester — but that doesn't make it any less stylish.
Why is it a good deal? ????
No matter how versatile the J.Crew cardi may be, $80 is a good chunk of change. This Amazon lookalike is regularly priced at $34, and while it goes on sale frequently, it hasn't been this affordable in weeks. (Prices vary between sizes and colors.)
Why do I need this? ????
I own the J.Crew Lady Jacket and agree with the rave reviews: It's a timeless closet staple. Whether worn open with jeans and a tank or buttoned up with trousers, it's elegant, polished and all-around chic. Whenever I wear it, someone inevitably recognizes it as "the" J.Crew jacket or asks me where I got it.
The Lillusory Striped Cardigan has a very similar look, so if you want that preppy-cool aesthetic without dropping a bunch of cash, it's more than worth a try. It's also available in more colors (14 in all), so you'll have more options for matching other items in your wardrobe.
Get that old-money lady jacket style ... without, well, the old money. (Amazon)
What reviewers say ????
Some 1,000 shoppers give the Lillusory sweater high marks for fit, comfort and value.
Pros ????
"The price is fantastic and it came fast," wrote one shopper. "It's great looking. I wore it on a flight to New Orleans for a long travel day and on the travel day home. I washed it in a mesh laundering bag on gentle cycle in Woolite and hung it to dry. I've worn it a couple more times and it looks great."
"Fashion doesn't have to be expensive," said a second reviewer. "My husband said I looked like a college girl! Who wouldn't love compliments like this? Just enough thickness to give it shape, and a budget-friendly fashion piece. Great on its own or as a cardigan over tanks, turtlenecks or tees."
Another happy customer commented, "If you love the J.Crew Lady Cardigan but hate their price, et voilà! This cardigan is for you! It's made of synthetic yarns but is soft and the gold buttons give it a jazzy look! Very nice, so I bought it in other colors too."
Cons ????
More discerning eyes may be able to tell the difference between this and the real thing, some say. "I've seen 'lady jackets' that cost three times the price," said a shopper. "This would look expensive, but the gold plastic buttons are not impressive. Easy enough to replace the buttons if you're motivated." (Psst: One chof360 staffer had this same note — check out her full review for more.)
"This sweater is gorgeous. It's so soft and is holding up well after several wears," wrote a final fan. "I have not put this in the dryer because I do think it would affect the fabric texture. The only negative is the buttons aren't sewn on very well, but none have fallen off yet as I've tried to be gentle."
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Another pro of this Amazon sweater: You can choose from 16 colors, including this classic black and white stripe. A bit pricier, yes, but oh so chic.
Looking to round out your cold-weather look with yet another J.Crew lookalike? Shoppers say this knit jacket bests J.Crew cardigans.
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This elegant number can bridge that outer-layer gap between summer and fall, and again between fall and winter.
One fan testified: "This literally holds up better than my J.Crew cardigans. Will be repurchasing and buying additional colors."
If you have Amazon Prime, you'll get free shipping, of course. Not yet a member? No problem. You can sign up for your free 30-day trial here. (And by the way, those without Prime still get free shipping on orders of $35 or more.)
The reviews quoted above reflect the most recent versions at the time of publication.
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