Cardigan Core: The Cardigans Making a Resurgence
Once reserved for grandads and uncles with questionable style – the cardigan used to symbolise frumpiness. However, the rise of cosy knitwear in looks during AW23 men’s fashion week from Paul Smith, Sacai and Hermes placed a forceful stamp of approval from the men’s fashion elite back on cardigans. So now that cardigans are having a resurgence, how can you tap into the cardigan core trend, and which items and designers should you be keeping an eye on?
Types of men’s cardigans
Cardigans are the ultimate layering accessory and are a wardrobe companion for adding the finishing touches to cosy ‘fits.
What are the different types of men’s cardigans, and how do you style each variation? Keep reading to discover the range of styles available and what to pair them with. We’ve even added some of our favourite cardigan product recommendations to your basket.
Chunky cardigan
The oversized look has been a trend for some seasons and is not going anywhere. Some designers have decided to blend seasonal trends and filter through chunky oversized cardigans into their collections. Adding a structured finish to your AW outfits, cardigans create a masculine silhouette that is on trend but also easy to pair. Many chunky cardigans feature ribbed hems and cuffs, adding to the structured nature of the piece.
Far Afield – Buckley Cardigan – Deep Teal
One of our favourite chunky cardigans is the Buckley Cardigan in Deep Teal from British designer Far Afield. Boasting a five-button placket construction and two large patch pockets, the Buckley is the perfect addition to your wardrobe for winter. Practical, stylish and on-trend, the piece from Far Afield is constructed from the softest lambswool and nylon blend.
RRL Denim Patch Cardigan – Indigo
Patchwork cardigan
Patchwork cardigans offer a shabby chic aesthetic and help create a laid-back and effortless look. Patchwork cardigans are often admired for their distinctive aesthetic, and the selection of patchwork cardigans available at Stuart’s is no exception. With roots in the Hippie and counterculture bohemian movements, patchwork garments are the perfect addition to your wardrobe if you are searching for something slightly different.
RRL BY RALPH LAUREN – Patchwork Linen-Blend Cardigan – Indigo
If you are searching for a cardigan that goes above and beyond, we have sourced the finest piece from RRL by Ralph Lauren for you. The Patchwork Linen-Blend Cardigan has been crafted with 12 different cotton, linen and silk yarns and with over 60 hand-repaired patches. The patchwork cardigan has also been specially washed for an authentic timeworn aesthetic and feel.
Collared cardigan
Offering a slightly more formal aesthetic, the collared cardigan is an understated garment rooted in workwear and utilitarian design. Made popular by jazz legends such as Sammy Davis Jr. and Sinatra, the resurgence of the collared cardigan is perfect for those searching for a garment that has a smart casual vibe.
YMC – Rat Pack Cardigan – Brown
One of our favourite collared cardigans comes from the London-based designer YMC (You Must Create) with their Rat Pack Cardigan. Crafted from 100% Merino wool, the Rat Pack Cardigan will remain soft after several wears and become one of your favourite wardrobe pieces.
Fine Knit Cardigan
The perfect transitional garment is the fine knit cardigan, which offers the wearer coverage that will keep them warm but is still breathable. The fine knit cardigan is the perfect layering garment and often will be thin enough to work as a middle layering option that can sit over a t-shirt and under a jacket or coat.
MAISON KITSUNE – Fox Patch Classic Cardigan – Navy
Maison Kitsune is the brainchild of Gildas Loaëc and Masaya Kuroki. Loaëc is no stranger to innovation, as he used to be the manager for the electronic techno duo Daft Punk. The collection of knitwear and cardigans Maison Kitsune has created includes on-trend garments that will become your staple seasonal pieces.
Are men’s cardigans in style in 2023?
In 2023, we have seen the rise of the cardigan in the AW collections of understated brands. Brands such as Universal Works, Norse Projects, and YMC, which typically take inspiration from workwear and utilitarian aesthetics, have started including cardigans in their collections.
The runways at Milan Fashion Week saw designers such as Gucci and Marni use oversized cardigans as coats as a transitional layering piece – so it is fair to say that if the fashion elite are bringing back cardigans, so should you.
How to style a men’s cardigan
If you are looking for advice on how to style a men’s cardigan – you are in the right place. Keep reading to discover some of the best ways to style your men’s cardigan and become the best-dressed man in any room you walk into.
What to wear with a men’s cardigan?
Men’s cardigans are the ultimate layering garment, and it is important to style them with this in mind.
Trousers and pants
You can pair cardigans with boxy trousers or pants for a contemporary look; make sure to check out the range of trousers by Oliver Spencer and Lois Jeans, which offers a range of colours and fabrics.
Corduroy trousers
Offering a timeless appeal, corduroy trousers are a great choice to pair with cardigans due to their versatility to be dressed up or down. Our corduroy trousers include a wide selection of colours and tones for you to choose from to elevate your look even further.
Cargo pants
If you are scared that adding a cardigan to your wardrobe will make you feel like you are cosplaying as a grandad, you can switch up your look with some cargo pants. Inherently contemporary and youthful, cargo pants are perfect for off-duty styling and weekend wear.
What should men wear under a cardigan?
As an option for layering, you should consider the garments under your cardigan.
Casual options
We recommend sticking with a block-coloured t-shirt to ensure your outfit doesn’t look too busy and your layering efforts complement one another. A t-shirt will give your outfit a relaxed and casual vibe, perfect for weekend wear or off-duty days.
Formal options
If you want to wear a cardigan to the office, keep your smart attire and wear a shirt and tie under your cardigan. You may have to assess the look on a case-by-case basis with your cardigan collection, as some cardigan fits may only allow for thin layering options.
What colour men’s cardigan is on trend?
Cardigans are becoming a staple AW piece to add to your wardrobe, and if you are wondering about the on-trend colours, fear not – we have you covered. Here are some of the hues you should consider when purchasing a cardigan.
Brown cardigans – Offering earthy and seasonal hues, brown cardigans are the perfect autumnal pieces for layering when constructing a cosy outfit. Brown cardigans are easy to wear and can be paired with a range of looks, from boxy trouser pants to more fitted jeans or trousers.
Beige cardigans – The selection of beige cardigans at Stuart’s includes wardrobe classics you can wear season after season. Constructed with oaty hues, beige cardigans are versatile garments that can be worn with various aesthetics and for layering purposes.
What is the most versatile cardigan colour for men?
We recommend a brown or blue cardigan if you are searching for a versatile and easy-to-wear look. These colours can be paired with trousers or jeans and used as layering pieces for your autumn wardrobe.
Should cardigans be tight or loose?
The answer to this question depends on the aesthetic you are going for. If you want to create a chic and smart look with your cardigan in an office or formal setting, you should opt for a slightly more fitted cardigan.
If you want to create a contemporary look, loose-fitting cardigans are the way to go. A looser-fitting cardigan will help you create a boxy and relaxed silhouette, which has grown in popularity over the last few years.
Men’s cardigans at Stuarts London
As fashion continues to evolve, embracing the cardigan’s return offers a stylish way to elevate your wardrobe and stay on-trend in 2023. Don’t hesitate to explore the world of cardigan fashion and discover how these versatile garments can become a valuable part of your seasonal wardrobe. Check out the full range of men’s cardigans available at Stuarts London, which includes some of the finest brands, such as Howlin’, RRL by Ralph Lauren and more. The entire range of cardigans features colours that will enhance your existing wardrobe, provide layering options and help you create an on-trend selection of looks.
Related
- Howlin’ Shaggy Bear Collection – Made In Scotland
- Universal Works Knitted Highlights – AW23 First Look
- YMC Military Inspired & Knitted Classics Pre AW23 Collection
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