THE JOURNAL
The preppy cardigan has grown up. Named after the 7th Earl of Cardigan – the major-general who led the British Army during the Battle of Balaclava, but that’s another item of clothing – it became a wardrobe cornerstone of college culture in the Roaring Twenties. But if once known for its stuffy, preppy connotations, now it has earned the term “wardrobe essential”. And, in recent seasons, it cropped up in fresh iterations on the catwalks of the world’s finest brands, such as Gucci, Acne Studios and more.
Chances are you’ve already read MR PORTER’s stylish gentleman’s guide to wearing the button-up knit (and if you haven’t, we suggest you do that now, here). In the four-point guide below, we present you with the top of the crop in men’s cardigans. From patterned styles to understated designs and practical zip-ups, you’re sure to find something that tickles your fancy.
01. The patterned styles
If you’re in the market for a patterned cardigan, you can always trust Alanui to deliver – the Italian brand takes its name from the Hawaiian word that means “large paths”, and adopts the same visual motif when it comes to creating its signature knits. Monitaly’s cardigan is plush and cosy, knitted from mohair and brushed for extra softness. Meanwhile, Gucci’s blue and white style is extremely versatile – designed to be reversible, you can choose between its “GG” monogram or the classic check on the other side.
02. The understated luxuries
Choosing to stay on the more low-key, understated end of things needn’t mean compromising on style, as our picks from Acne Studios, Séfr and Inis Meáin can attest. Opt for a versatile beige option from the former or an oversized, endlessly wearable grey style from the latter. Séfr’s yellow design is knitted from uber-soft mohair and is sure to liven up any dull winter layer.
03. The shawl-collared picks
Chunkier, shawl-collared styles such as these from TOM FORD, The Elder Statesman and RRL are substantial enough to be worn in place of a lightweight jacket, so don’t hesitate to style yours over a finer knit. Opt for a monochrome style to contrast denim or darker layers – TOM FORD’s is rib-knitted from wool, silk and mohair. Or pick up The Elder Stateman’s striped cashmere style or RRL’s checked belted style to inject a dash of colour and pattern into your outfit.
04. The zip-up layers
Dressing smart – as in cleverly – in winter means mastering the art of layering. And investing in a good, zip-up cardigan might just be the easiest way to achieve this. The MR PORTER shelves are filled with plenty of great options, from something more understated, such as PIACENZA 1733’s blue knit, or a striped number, see Mr P.’s virgin wool, earthy-coloured style, to Pendleton’s festive Argyle cardigan and many more.