How to wear a cardigan with style

The cardigan has been around in men’s fashion for decades. Named after James Brudenell, the 7^th Earl of Cardigan: a British Army Major General who led the charge of the Light Brigade during the Crimean War. It is modelled after the knitted wool waistcoats that British officers wore during the war.

Nowadays the cardigan is both a winter and summer accessory. It can be worn for a formal occasion, or equally as well in a dress-down manner. However, sometimes you need a little bit more direction than that. Therefore, Mainline Menswear is here to tell you how to wear a cardigan with style.

Styles of Cardigan

Quite surprisingly, there are many different cardigan styles. We’re just going to take you through a few of the main ones…

Heavy cable knit cardigans are – as the name suggests – best for winter wear. They look fantastic thrown on over a shirt and tie (or just a shirt), making them ideal to wear to the office during the colder months. Whether you button up the cardigan is up to you, but if you’re wearing a tie we suggest fastening the buttons, to give the look an overall smarter feel.

Next up is the belted cardigan – this is a style you have to be careful around, as wearing it wrong could have you looking like you’re in your dressing gown. Wear with a pair of well tailored trousers, and ensure the belt isn’t tied too tightly to pull of this look.

Summer cardigans are the most casual choice of them all. Worn during the warmer months they are made of much thinner material, and therefore always look best when they’re fastened up. They can be worn with a polo shirt or open collar shirt, but it is suggested you always wear one with something that has a collar.

Finally, there are shawl cardigans. These cannot be beaten on a crisp, winter morning. The large collar almost acts as a substitute for a coat can be wrapped around your neck, definitely at least replacing the need for a scarf. Wear with a shirt underneath and you’re good to go. Warm, stylish and ready for the winter.

Mainline Menswear Top Picks

G Star Raw Rovic Cardigan in blue. This classic comes in a two-tone blue and white chunky knitted style, with contrasting dark navy pockets. The ideal cardigan for any man who wants to make a striking impression.

Vivienne Westwood Basketweave Cardigan in navy. This is one of our smartest cardigans, with the knitted pattern pairing beautifully with dark brown buttons. Wear with an open collar shirt and chinos to create a smart, ideal-for-autumn look.

Mainline Menswear stocks a large selection of cardigans, in various styles. Visit our website here to browse our extensive range of stock.