Friends Like These Bow Cardigan

Your New Favorite Sweater Has Arrived

The Friends Like These bow cardigan has practically broken the internet since it made its debut on the hit sitcom Friends in the 1990s. This iconic cable knit cardigan with its distinctive oversized bow stole our hearts when Rachel Green, played by Jennifer Aniston, first stepped on screen wearing it.

Decades later, this sweater remains a coveted wardrobe staple for any Friends fan or lover of 90s fashion. However, finding the perfect dupe or replica of the Rachel Green bow cardigan can be quite tricky. That’s why I’ve put together this comprehensive buying guide to help you get your hands on this celebrity-approved sweater.

In this blog post, I’ll be sharing where to buy the cardigan, how much it costs, what sizes, colors and styles are available, and most importantly – how to style it for different occasions. Whether you’re looking to channel some serious Rachel Green vibes or simply want a cute and cozy cardigan with a fun twist, you’ll find all the details you need right here!

Where To Buy The Coveted Cardigan

The original Friends Like These cardigan was custom-made for the show by the brand Revolution Knitter. Unfortunately, it’s no longer in production. But not to worry – there are plenty of dupes, lookalikes and replicas available from various clothing brands and online stores.

Some popular places to find the Friends bow cardigan include:

• Etsy: This handmade marketplace has tons of sellers offering handknit or crocheted cardigan dupes. These are often the most realistic options, though prices vary.
• Nordstrom: Search for “bow cardigan” to find several similar cable knit options with oversized bows. The BP Bow-Back Cardigan is a spot-on dupe.
• ASOS: This fashion retailer carries the ASOS Oversized Cardigan in various colors. Use code FRIENDS for 15% off!
• Revolve: Find stylish cardigan options like this bbb Bow Back Cardigan for the Rachel look.
• Amazon: Search “oversized bow cardigan” to uncover cuuuute budget-friendly options. This one has major Rachel vibes.

The key is looking for oversized cable knit cardigans featuring a big front bow. I recommend browsing reviews and images to ensure the highest quality dupe.

How Much Should You Pay?

Pricing for the Friends bow cardigan varies widely based on the brand, quality, size, and whether it’s handmade. Here’s what to expect:

• Etsy handknit versions: $60 – $150
• Department store styles: $50 – $128
• Fast fashion dupes: $15 – $45
• Amazon finds: $20 – $50

The more accurate and well-made the dupe, the higher the price tag. Handknit cardigans take time and skill, so $100+ price points are reasonable. Mass retailer versions offer a budget-friendly way to get the look for less.

Aim for $40 – $60 to get a decent mid-range cardigan that resembles Rachel’s iconic sweater. But deals and sales do pop up too! Sign up for store alerts and check back often.

Size, Fit and Feel

To get the oversized, cozy feel of Rachel’s cardigan, sizing up is key. Here’s a size guide to find your perfect fit:

• XS – S: Best if you prefer a more fitted relaxed look
• M – L: Ideal for an authentically oversized style
• XL – XXL: Opt for a larger size for maxi-oversized vibes

Most retailers size this style to be roomy. But read reviews to see if sizing runs large or small. The cardigan should drape off the shoulders and fall to mid-thigh or longer for an accurately baggy Friends wardrobe staple.

As for feel, the Friends cardigan looks to be a medium weight 5-6 gauge cable knit. It’s neither too heavy nor too thin. Opt for cotton, wool, acrylic or polyester blends to get the ideal cozy feel that’s still breathable for layering.

Colors and Styles

Rachel Green’s go-to color for the cardigan was a light brown oatmeal hue. But the Friends Like These cardigan has been produced in various versions:

• Oatmeal: The original tan/light brown color Rachel wears most
• Black: A popular color alternative that’s easy to pair
• Gray: From heather to charcoal options for a modern vibe
• Cream: A few off-white or ivory shades are available too
• Rainbow: Some Etsy sellers offer custom multicolored versions!

Beyond the classic cable knit texture, you can also find the following stylish twists:

• Open front: Cardigans without a button closure for easy layering
• Hooded: Add a hood for extra coziness
• Pockets: Functional pockets add convenience
• Cropped: A shorter length puts a fresh spin on the cardi

Stick with the original cable knit style in oatmeal, black, gray or cream for an authentic Friends wardrobe essential. Or explore variations with details like hoods, pockets or colorful stripes to make it your own!

Trying It On – Fit and Sizing Reviews

Since retailers offer the Friends bow cardi in standard women’s sizing, it helps to read thorough fit reviews before purchasing. Here’s what real customers have experienced:

• Runs large: Many reviewers size down 1-2 sizes for the perfect oversized but not sloppy fit.
• Long arms: If you have shorter arms, you may need to fold sleeves for the right proportions.
• Comfortably slouchy: The roomy design drapes beautifully without feeling tight.
• Cozy and warm: The knit material is soft, lightweight and never itchy.
• TTS: Some reviewers say their normal size works to achieve the baggy look.
• Petite friendly: Shorter customers report the oversized cardi still fits nicely when sized down.
• Plus size approved: Available in extended sizes, the bow cardi suits various body types.

The overall consensus is to consider sizing down from your regular fit for a more tapered oversized shape. But don’t size down more than 1-2 sizes or the cardi may be too fitted.

How To Style The Iconic Cardigan

Now for the fun part – how do we style the Friends Like These cardigan for different occasions and vibes? Here are my top tips for looking fab in this Rachel Green staple:

For Casual Daytime Wear

• With jeans, a tee and sneakers – an effortlessly chill combo
• Over a turtleneck and leggings for weekend errands
• With bike shorts and dad shoes for a model-off-duty edge
• Layered over a slip dress to temper the dressiness

For Workwear Office Inspo

• With slacks, blouse and loafers for an office-ready ensemble
• On top of a sheath dress and heels for desk to dinner chic
• Over a button-down and trousers for a polished profession look
• With a midi skirt, tucked tee and boots for workplace casual

Date Night Styles

• A mini skirt, cropped cami and booties make it date night ready
• Worn as a jacket over a silky slip dress for cocktail glam
• With leather leggings, strappy heels and a lace bralette for night out realness
• Over a sequin skirt and silky cami for a festive touch

Formal Occasion Perfection

• On top of a satin cami with maxi skirt and heels for event elegance
• With dress pants, blouse and pumps for instant officewear
• Over a slinky spaghetti strap dress as an anti-cold cover up
• With wide leg trousers, cropped tank and mules for effortless chic

Layering Like A Pro

One of the best things about the Friends bow cardi is how versatile it is for layering. The oversized fit makes it perfect for throwing on over just about anything. Here are some chic layering ideas:

• Over dresses and skirts to add cozy warmth without bulk
• On top of fitted long sleeve tops and tees as a light outer layer
• Under denim, leather and teddy jackets for an extra peek of knit texture
• Over flowy camis and tanks to balance the baggy shape on top
• Under big scarves or blanket coats as an indoor/outdoor base layer
• Between button-downs and blazers to mix business and casual
• Under trench, pea and puffer coats as a stylish indoors option

Have fun playing with proportions! The slouchy cardi layers beautifully under more fitted outerwear but also works over flowy fabrics. Adjust positioning of sleeves and bow to find your perfect fit.

Customer Reviews: A Must-Have Staple

Across retailers, the Friends Like These bow cardi receives rave reviews for its covetable style and versatility. Here’s what real customers are saying:

• “I get so many compliments whenever I wear it!”
• “Super soft and the fit is just right for a casual, everyday look.”
• “It’s my favorite layering piece for fall and winter.”
• “I love recreating Rachel Green’s outfits with this cardigan.”
• “It feels like I’m wrapped up in a big cozy hug!”
• “So many ways to style it – dresses, jeans, leggings, skirts…”
• “The oversized bow detail makes any outfit instantly cuter.”
• “It’s worth the money for such a well-made iconic sweater.”

The overwhelming consensus? This is the perfect cardigan to complete any wardrobe! The quality, style and versatility make it well worth the investment.

Returns, Care and Maintenance

One concern when buying clothing online is whether you can return pieces if the sizing or fit is off. Here’s the return policy breakdown for retailers selling the Friends bow cardigan:

• Amazon: Free returns within 30 days of receipt
• ASOS: Free returns within 28 days for US customers
• Nordstrom: Free returns with no time limit
• Revolve: Extended 60 day free return window
• Etsy: Varies by seller; review shop policies before purchase

For care and washing, check label instructions but most versions are machine washable. Lay flat or hang to dry to maintain the cardi’s oversized shape. To keep the acrylic/wool knit looking its best, avoid high heat drying, ironing or bleaching.

Is The Hype Real?

If you’re questioning whether the iconic Friends Like These cardi is worth procuring – the answer is a resounding yes! This wardrobe staple has stood the test of time thanks to its effortlessly cool 90s style, cozy knit material and fun bow detail.

Reviewers confirm it lives up to the hype in terms of quality, versatility and comfort. Just be sure to order your ideal oversized size and layer it over everything for instant Rachel Green vibes. This cardigan will quickly become your new favorite for completing any outfit with nostalgic style!