Men’s cardigans never go out of style, and it’s easy to see why. You can throw them on as an easy layer, make them a central part of your outfit, and they look just as good with jeans and a T-shirt as they do with chinos and a shirt. But learning which style and fabric work for your aesthetic can be a bit of a minefield.
With classic V-neck cardigans, chunky cable knit cardigans, plus smarter button-up and casual zip-through styles, there are so many options out there. But don’t worry, with our range of Threadbare men’s cardigans, you can find your perfect match for work, weekends and as an extra layer, just in case. Shop now for autumn, winter and beyond!
Why every man’s wardrobe needs a cardigan
Let’s face it, a cardigan gives you so much more flexibility than a jumper. You can wear it open when you only need a light layer, button or zip it up when it gets colder, or take it off when you head indoors without messing up the rest of your outfit.
This makes cardigans perfect for transitional weather and colder months, plus they look super stylish too! If you’re looking for easy layering pieces for your everyday wardrobe, cardigans really are hard to beat.
Here are some top styles to consider:
V-neck cardigans
A V-neck cardigan is one of those pieces that can go in a lot of different directions. You can keep it casual with a plain T-shirt, jeans and trainers, leaving a couple of buttons undone for a more relaxed look. Or, if you want something smarter, you can wear your V-neck over a shirt and pair it with some stylish tailored trousers and smart shoes.
The V-neck gives whatever you’re wearing underneath a bit more space to show through, and if you choose a neutral colour like navy, black or grey, it’ll work with most of what’s already in your wardrobe.
Cable knit cardigans
Sometimes a plain knit does the job, but other times? You want a bit more going on… That’s where a cable knit cardigan comes in. The textured pattern gives your outfit more interest without making it difficult to style, and it can level up even the simplest T-shirt-and-jeans combination to make your look feel more considered.
Cable knits are particularly good throughout autumn and winter, as their heavier weight pairs perfectly with denim and boots. Style yours with a light jacket when the weather is mild, or layer it under a puffer coat when it starts to get really brisk.
Zip-up cardigans
Not sure a traditional button-up cardigan is for you? Why not try a zip-up or zip-through cardigan? This style has a more casual feel and sits somewhere between classic knitwear and a zip-up sweatshirt, so you still get the warmth and texture of a knit, but with an easier, more relaxed shape.
This style looks great with T-shirts, jeans, cargos and trainers, so it’s a solid choice for easy everyday outfits. Why not choose a zip-through cardigan with a funnel neck on cold days and layer it under your favourite coat or jacket?
Which colour cardigan should you choose?
If you want maximum wear out of your cardigan, start with the colours you already rely on. Navy, black and grey are easy to mix into your wardrobe because they work with everything from denim to chinos. They’re also less tied to one season, so you can keep reaching for them, year after year.
But it’s important not to rule out the more seasonal shades either! Forest green, burgundy, charcoal grey and chocolate brown are trending right now, and it’s easy to see why. These rich shades are just perfect for autumn and winter and will help you stay up to date with the latest fashion trends and turn heads wherever you go.
Which cardigan style is right for you?
The right cardigan style for you really comes down to how you like to dress.
- If you like to keep things comfy and casual, a chunky knit cardigan or sweater-like zip-up cardigan is a great choice. Layer it over whatever you’re wearing and simply head out the door!
- If it’s cold outside and something cosy is calling, check out our shawl-neck and funnel-neck cardigans. They have chunkier collars that keep out the chill during the colder autumn and winter months
- If you prefer things a little smarter, look for a finer knitted cardigan with a clean finish, like a classic V-neck. Layer it over a shirt with a smart jacket or blazer.
And if you still haven’t found what you’re looking for, why not browse more options like jumpers, quarter zips and knitted polos in our full men’s knitwear range?
Find your go-to cardigan
A cardigan is one of those pieces that earns its place in your wardrobe and stays there because you can wear it in so many ways: open over a T-shirt, buttoned up with a shirt or thrown on in place of a jacket. Find your new favourite cardigan now at Threadbare.
Men’s Cardigans FAQs
What’s the difference between a cardigan and a jumper?
A jumper is pulled on over your head, while a cardigan opens at the front with buttons or a zip. This makes a cardigan easier to take on or off throughout the day.
How should a men’s cardigan fit?
How a cardigan fits depends on the style you’re going for. A regular- or slim-fit cardigan should sit comfortably across the shoulders without pulling when it’s fastened. If you prefer a more relaxed look, go for a looser or oversized fit.
Are cardigans smart or casual?
The best thing about men’s cardigans is that they can be both smart and casual. Fine-knit button-up cardigans are a great addition to shirt-and-chino combinations, while chunky styles and zip-through cardigans feel much more casual.