A well-made men’s cardigan is one of the most adaptable layers a guy can have in his wardrobe. Whether you’re dressing for a casual weekend, a laid-back office setting, or a crisp evening out, a cardigan sweater strikes a perfect balance between relaxed and refined. Its deep roots in classic menswear—dating back to British military officers—have evolved into an indispensable asset that complements a range of styles.
What Are Cardigan Sweaters?
At its core, a cardigan is a knit sweater that opens at the front, typically with buttons or a zipper. Once a uniform staple for 19th-century British officers (including the Earl of Cardigan himself), today it’s a go-to for layering in nearly every season or setting. From rugged merino wool sweaters to lighter-weight options, cardigans are the kind of wardrobe workhorse that can be worn with everything from selvedge denim jeans to an Oxford shirt, effortlessly transitioning between casual and polished.
How to Style Cardigan Sweaters
Casual and Relaxed
If you’re aiming for easygoing comfort without looking sloppy, a cardigan over an organic cotton t-shirt or a classic polo tee is a foolproof move. Pair it with well-worn selvedge denim jeans or broken-in chinos to complete this timeless, relaxed look. A mid-weight cardigan in neutral in a neutral tone adds just the right amount of warmth without feeling bulky. Round it off with leather boots or sneakers for a pulled-together yet unfussy finish.
Business-Casual
A well-fitted cardigan can be a sharp alternative to a blazer in business-casual settings. Layer it over a crisp Oxford shirt and pair it with tailored chinos or dark denim to complete the look. A shawl-collar cardigan introduces a layer of sophistication while keeping the look relaxed. Swap the sneakers for loafers or lace-up leather shoes, and you’re good to go.
An Evening Out
A fine-gauge cardigan (preferably in a more refined material like merino wool) can easily step in for a sport coat in a dressier ensemble. Button it up over a classic shirt, pair it with wool trousers or dark selvedge denim, and finish with leather brogues or loafers. This look leans refined but doesn’t feel overdone—perfect for a date night or an upscale gathering.
Workwear-Inspired
For a look that’s equal parts tough and timeless, try layering a thick wool or cotton cardigan over a henley or flannel shirt. Pair it with heavyweight chinos or canvas pants, and throw on a pair of sturdy leather boots to drive home the utilitarian vibe. This combination brings together durability and style, making it ideal for crisp fall days, early winter mornings, or cool spring nights.
Cardigan Sweaters at Taylor Stitch
At Taylor Stitch, we’ve been perfecting menswear essentials for over a decade, and our approach to the men’s cardigan sweater is no different. We build them to last—from heavyweight wool knits crafted for cooler months to lightweight options designed for easy layering. Every piece is made to stand the test of time, breaking in beautifully and adapting to your lifestyle as the years stack up. Whether you’re layering up for winter or adding texture to a warm-weather fit, a TS cardigan is designed to be your trusted go-to, season after season.
