This is not your grandad’s cardigan. The once-staid item has been enjoying a renaissance in the past few seasons and has been upgraded with elegant, structured fits and contemporary details. Surpassing trend-status, it’s become a modern man’s wardrobe staple.
Here’s a fun fashion fact to declare to anyone who questions the manliness-factor of your jumper: the button-down piece was named after the 7th Earl of Cardigan – a prominent British military figure who made the style popular. Not to mention, it’s been seen on many a sartorially savvy star. To inspire you, we’ve selected three of our favourite cardigan looks spotted in the media:
DEREK HOUGH
The dancer/choreographer smartened up his casual outfit with a shawl-neck cable knit cardigan. The bright blue piece brings a sense of polish to the otherwise neutral outfit – and complements blonds of course.
PHARRELL WILLIAMS
Sitting front row at the Proenza Schouler show at New York Fashion Week next to Alexa Chung, the Happy singer opted for his signature slightly edgy, casual look. We think Pharrell’s sober brown cardigan offsets his Chanel statement trainers perfectly.
JESSE METCALFE
The dapper American actor, who’s been steadily rising in the fashion stakes, showcased expert style while out with girlfriend Cara Santana in Manhattan. Opting for a tonal blue ensemble, Jesse wore a blue dress shirt over navy chinos, dress shoes, and a smart trimmed cardigan. Wearing the shirt un-tucked keeps the look contemporary.
As it’s a naturally versatile piece, rules for cardigan-wearing are simple. It looks equally good with t-shirts as it does with dress shirts, but do stick to jeans over formal trousers to avoid looking twee. Lastly, keep the look coherent – if you’re wearing a patterned or brightly coloured cardigan, match one of the colours to something else you’re wearing.
OUR FAVOURITE CARDIGANS
An edit of the top three men’s cardies at Debenhams
1. Grey v-neck cardigan from St George by Duffer
2. Navy shawl-neck cardigan from Wrangler
3. Striped maroon v-neck cardigan by Thomas Nash
