8 Types Of Cardigan Every Stylish Man Should Own

Looking to expand your knitwear selection beyond plain old crew necks? Well, a cardigan should be right at the top of your list. Not only are these traditional knits cosy and warm, they’re also great for layering, practical and, as luck would have it, bang on trend.

You might have noticed knitted cardigans cropping up on the shoulders of stylish social-media folk and well-dressed celebs for some time now, but wool is merely the tip of the iceberg. The truth is that there are lots of different cardigan styles to choose from – ranging from simple crew-neck versions to elaborately patterned mohair masterpieces – all of which are worth considering if you’re on the hunt.

With that in mind, we’ve compiled a list of our favourite cardi styles – the ones we think should be on every well-dressed guy’s radar. So whether you’re looking for a nice traditional version your grandma would approve of or something modern and technical, this selection has got you covered.

Fuzzy

‘Cardigan’ and ‘interesting’ are two words you may not expect to see in the same sentence, but that could be about to change. Despite their reputation for stuffiness, cardigans can be cool and quirky, as evidenced by the ongoing trend for fuzzy mohair knitwear.

The key here is to make the cardigan the statement piece – particularly if you’re usually a fairly conservative dresser. Even if you don’t opt for a wild pattern, the unusual texture of the fabric alone is enough to garner attention. With that in mind, keep the rest of your outfit suitably subdued.

Cashmere

We reckon every man deserves to own at least one piece of cashmere knitwear, and why not let it be a cardigan? The open-front design means it’s incredibly versatile and an excellent layering piece. This means you’re likely to get a lot of wear out of it, which goes some way towards justifying the price.

For cashmere cardigans, we’d recommend going more fitted than slouchy to reinforce the fabric’s sophisticated nature. Keep the colour simple for maximum versatility, and dress it up or down depending on the setting.

Crew Neck

The crew-neck cardigan might not be a style you’ve thought about too much, but it’s simple, understated, and it’s having a bit of a moment right now. If you’re not a fan of the traditional plunging neckline characteristic of most cardigans, this could be the conservative alternative you’ve been after. Its classic round neckline makes it a perfect choice for layering, and it looks great whether worn open or unbuttoned.

Choose fine-gauge wool for lightweight layering or a chunkier knit for extra warmth and heft. Stick to solid colours like navy, grey or black for maximum wearability, or experiment with subtle textures to add depth.

Patterned

Believe it or not, a cardigan is the perfect vehicle for making a statement, and there’s no shortage of options in wild patterns and bold colours. It’s a great way to inject some personality into simple outfits. From Fair Isle knits to geometric designs, these quirky cardigans can transform an otherwise basic look into something far more interesting.

Balance is key here. Let the cardigan be the focal point by pairing it with understated wardrobe staples, such as dark pants and plain T-shirts.

Check out brands such as Beams, Needles, Howlin’ and Missoni for some of the best options.

Zip-Through

A zip-through cardigan is practical and stylish, combining the warmth of knitwear with the functionality of a jacket. It’s a slightly more modern spin on the classic cardigan and a great option for layering during transitional seasons.

For a sporty take, look for versions with ribbed cuffs and hem, or opt for a sleek, minimalist design in merino wool or, better yet, cashmere. If you go for the latter, you can dress it down with jeans and sneakers or style it up for smart casual occasions with a pair of tailored wool pants and some leather loafers.

Shawl Collar

Cosy sophistication is the name of the game here, so the chunkier the knit, the better. With its signature rolled neckline, a shawl-collar cardigan offers an effortlessly refined look that’s perfect for lounging at home or stepping up your casualwear for day-to-day duties.

Chunky knit versions in neutral tones are ideal for layering over a T-shirt or even a fine-gauge knit, while finer wool versions are ideal for slotting underneath a blazer when the situation calls for something a little smarter.

Insulated

You may not have known, but insulated cardigans are a thing, and they might be the layering tool you’ve been searching for. A favourite of trendy Japanese outdoor brands, these lightweight cards often feature a low-profile lining of either down or synthetic insulation, press-stud fastenings and sometimes even a DWR coating to keep light rain at bay.

If you’re looking for a lightweight mid-layer and aren’t a fan of knitwear, then this could be the perfect alternative. Take a look at what brands like Snow Peak, Goldwin, Nanamica and Nanga have to offer. For a slightly more affordable alternative, check out Taion.

Fleece

For a casual take on the classic cardigan, fleece is a fabric worth considering. Warm, soft and incredibly practical, fleece cardigans are ideal for those laid-back days when comfort is the priority. What’s more, they’re the perfect insulating mid layers, with their fuzzy fabric that traps body heat and locks it in for warmth.

Brands like Patagonia and The North Face have mastered this style, offering versions that balance outdoor practicality with just the right amount of style. These allow you to reap the functional benefits without losing your cool—literally.