Cardigans have made their way in and out of menswear trends throughout the years, but were long neglected and considered a conservative item. Luckily, however, it seems as though men are adventuring into the realm of open-front sweaters once again, and there is no shortage of options to meet the incredibl demand. The humble cardigan has become a canvas for some of menswear's most interesting garments, from Marni's spray painted knits to Bode's double-breasted design. Not to mention, they pair beautifully with chinos, baggy jeans, skinny jeans, and just about any other pants option you can up with. Cardigans have always been a versatile option, capable of being dressed up or down with ease; however, sweaters and cardigans have become statement pieces that simply make everything cooler. From Needles' Mohair Cardigan Papillon ($273) to Marni's V-Neck Striped Knit Cardigan ($705.83), we've compiled 26 of the best men's cardigans here for your viewing pleasure.
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The 26 Best Men's Cardigans to Shop Right Now: The Ultimate Fall Staple
Sweater weather you say? We look at the best of the best
The Best Men's Cardigans, a Shopping Guide:
- The Best Men's Cardigan, Overall - Needles Mohair Cardigan Papillon, $273
- A Fuzzy Option for the Winter - Marni V-Neck Striped Knit Cardigan, $705.83
- A Colorful Option for Fall - Stüssy Striped Knitted Cardigan, $198
- The Best Puffy Cardigan Option - Lululemon Alpaca Wool-Blend Cardigan Sweater, $198
- The Most Comfortable Men's Cardigan - BEAMS+ Brown Jacquard Patchwork Cardigan, $199
- The Best Designer Men's Cardigan - Issey Miyake Homme Plissé Basics Cardigan, $400
- Also Great - Aimé Leon Dore Waffle Knit Cardigan, $325
- A Cozy Option for the Winter - J. Crew Heritage 14 oz. Fleece Cardigan Sweater, $128
1. Needles Mohair Cardigan Papillon
Best Men's Cardigan, Overall
- Color: Navy
- Material: 100% Mohair
- Best for: Making a statement
Needles is widely known for their tracksuits and chopped up flannels, but the Japanese brand has a consistently amazing output of other products. Needles’ founder, Keizo Shimizu, is well known for incorporating old school Americana into his designs, and this cardigan features a woven psychedelic motif inspired by the 70s. The comfort is there with a 100% mohair crafting, and the cardigan features a front button closure, ribbed detailing in the cuffs and hems, paneled construction, and intarsia graphics as the finisher. The only negative is the limited sizing, but a restock should be coming soon hopefully in time for the season.
2. Marni V-Neck Striped Knit Cardigan
A Fuzzy Option for the Winter
- Color: Orange
- Material: 67% Mohair, 28% polyamide, 5% wool
- Best for: Luxury layering in the winter
Marni's cardigans are known for featuring a minimalist, luxury design that's available accessible to the masses. Made from a combination of mohair, polyamide, and wool, this cardigan is a must-have staple piece for the colder seasons due to its attract colorway and super comfortable nature. While the main attraction of this design is its simplicity and fit, the extra fuzzy cuffs add just the right amount of visual interest.
3. Stüssy Striped Knitted Cardigan
A Colorful Option for Fall
- Color: Violet purple/bright red
- Material: 100% Acrylic
- Best for: Showcasing a pop of color
This cardigan is one of the newer arrivals from Stüssy’s men's collection, but don’t let a potential quick sellout deter you from picking this one up. The largely basic construction is highlighted by the reverse seams running laterally across the body of the sweater, and the dying of the garment gives it a worn-in look. The cardigan also features knitted construction and a front button fastening as the extra oomph. Gotta love it.
4. Lululemon Alpaca Wool-Blend Cardigan Sweater
The Best Puffy Cardigan Option
- Color: Heathered Asphalt Grey, Heathered White Opal
- Material: 45% Merino wool, 27% alpacaHair, 25% polyimide, 3% elastane
- Best for: Donning something quick when it's cool
This cardigan from Lululemon is available in beautiful grey and white colorways that checks all the boxes—as per the usual when it comes to a Lululemon offering. The felted look of the merino wool blend adds texture, while the alpaca Hair adds a bit of depth to the simple coloring of the garment, making it perfect for spicing up your winter wardrobe. Additionally, the cardigan is also naturally thermoregulating which means it will keep you nice and toasty for the winter season. Gotta love a fuzzy sweater.
5. BEAMS+ Brown Jacquard Patchwork Cardigan
The Most Comfortable Men's Cardigan
- Color: Beams Brown
- Material: 100% Cotton
- Best for: Rocking to the office
This cardigan feels like an old, worn rug rolled up in the corner of an antique store, in the best way possible with its 100% cotton composition. The eclectic pattern of the garment is loud, but subdued by the earthy colorway that makes this piece easy to add to your fall wardrobe. The Jacquard Patchwork has all the traditional cardigan features, but is boosted by the patchwork technique and oversized fit.
6. Issey Miyake Homme Plissé Basics Cardigan
The Best Designer Men's Cardigan
- Color: Black
- Material: 100% Polyester
- Best for: Rocking a simple efficient black sweater
It’s not often that the brand which made a garment is unmistakable without a logo, but Issey Miyake’s homme plisse line has reached such a status. The equally minimal and intricate designs create lines that gracefully curve around the body on this cardigan, and the drop shoulder makes for an interesting visual focal point. The simple black color makes this easy to pair with a number of items in your closet, and the comfort is great with its 100% Polyester make up.
7. Aimé Leon Dore Waffle Knit Cardigan
Also Great
- Color: Navy, Oatmeal, Grey
- Material: 100% Italian Worsted Merino Wool
- Best for: Running casual errands
Aimé Leon Dore has enjoyed a meteoric rise in popularity the past few years, largely due to collaborations with New Balance. However, none of that should downplay the quality of the garments that the brand releases. This season, the label dropped a new round cardigans that are unsuspecting and simple, but feature a beautiful fit in a nice range of colors. This includes the Waffle Knit Cardigan which is cut with 100% Italian Worsted Merino Wool, and is accompanied with a rib placket that has an oversized fit. A nice simple pickup for the season.
8. J. Crew Heritage 14 oz. Fleece Cardigan Sweater
A Cozy Option for the Winter
- Color: Hthr Athletic Grey, Navy, Black
- Material: 84% Cotton, 16% polyester
- Best for: Complimenting your chinos
As always, J. Crew has lot of cardigans in their current catalog, and this Heritage 14oz Fleece Cardigan stays true to American preppy roots. The relaxed fit of this sweater makes it great to throw on top of a casual outfit, while the cotton/polyester blend is sure to keep you cozy when its cold out. The cardigan also features slant pockets, and a rib trim at the cuffs. Not to mention, the interior is also made specifically for a softness that provides extra comfort. You may even be so cozy that you fall asleep in it. Seriously.
9. PacSun Freddy Sunrise Cardigan
- Color: Sunrise
- Material: 59% Cotton, 41% acrylic
- Best for: Rocking a pop of color
Loud patterns are making a comeback, and what louder pattern to rock than this bold stripe print? This sweater features contrasting orange, green, and pin trim, making it a great statement piece. Alternatively, you can layer it so that just a hint of the pattern peeks out from underneath a coat or jacket to provide a hit of color. The cardigan is made with a seamless cotton/acrylic blend, and features a button-down front closure, v-neckline, and ribbed trimming like its other cardigan counterparts.
10. Awake NY Black Striped Mohair Cardigan
- Color: Striped Grey
- Material: Wool construction
- Best for: Standing out in a crowd
Awake NY has been growing steadily for the past several years, and their latest collection is a testament to the brand’s prowess within the streetwear realm. This cardigan features a simple zip closure and is made of a mohair blend. The bright trim contrasts well with the black body, making this great as a statement piece or a layer under a coat. If you choose to wear without a coat, the wool construction will be sure to keep you warm when it's cool out. The $208 price is also great considering the brand and quality.
11. Snowpeak Flexible Insulated Cardigan
- Color: Teal, Black, Orange
- Material: 100% Polyester
- Best for: Wearing in the winter
This insulated cardigan from Snowpeak is the perfect mid layer for this winter, especially if regular cardigans aren’t quite right for you. The thin quilted material makes this great as a standalone piece for transitional weather and as a layering piece for the harsh winter months. The cardigan is crafted with 100% Polyester, and has just enough stretch and a water-repellent finish as an additional feature. Speaking of features, the cardigan is also propped up by snap button closures, a pocket on the left chest, and dual pockets on the waist in case you need to store smaller essentials.
12. Adsum Waffle Cardigan
- Color: Beige
- Material: Merino wool
- Best for: Taking it back to the basics
Adsum’s consistent output of closet staples have made them one of the best brands to come out of New York in recent years. This Fair Isle-inspired cardigan features a 100% wool construction and comes in a muted colorway that is perfect as a layering piece or to wear on its own. The $255 isn't too shabby either consider the fact that it's Adsum we're talking about here.
13. Kotn Aures Cardigan
- Color: Umber Ombre, Grey Ombre
- Material: 100% Cotton
- Best for: A grandpa cardigan vibe
This is a cardigan fit for the ultimate minimalist. With the option of choosing to very simple but flattering colors, the cardigan is made with 100% soft cotton, and has a three-button placket complete with dropped shoulder seams and an overall boxy fit. Perfect for layering, or just lounging around the house, and full of supreme comfort.
14. Corridor Sunburst Cardigan
- Color: Yellow
- Material: 100% Cotton
- Best for: Showcasing your luxury fit
Corridor's fuzzy wuzzy mohair is a modern staple of the brand’s repertoire, becoming one of the most popular and recognizable lines out of the fashion house. Their range of brightly colored, beautifully fitting sweaters and cardigans fulfil a childish desire to feel the warmth of a thneed from the Lorax. The cardigan is made with a 100% cotton that is handknit, and does a solid job at keeping you warm in colder temperatures.
15. Scotch and Soda Relaxed Jacquard Cardigan
- Color: Pink Flyer Graphic
- Material: 60% Organic cotton, 26% nylon, 10% viscose, 4% elastane
- Best for: A country club fit
Elevate your country club looks with this nifty cardigan from Scotch and Soda, which features a v neck closure, relaxed fit, and is littered with beautiful jacquard color blocking that reminds one of a modernist painting. The sweater is crafted with organic cotton, nylon, viscose, and elastane, and checks all the requirements of being sustainably made, which is always an extra bonus in our book. Nothing beats sustainability!
16. Moncler X JW Anderson Patchwork Buttoned Cardigan
- Color: Pink Flyer Graphic
- Material: 70% Virgin Wool, 30% Cashmere
- Best for: Achieving a 1970s vibe
Both Moncler and JW Anderson has been putting out insane knitwear since their inception, so it's only right that they link up for this beautiful Patchwork Buttoned Cardigan right? The boucle knit of the sweater shows off dozens of colors that blend together to create a nicely contrasting purple and grey, and the loose threads scattered throughout add a nice tattered look. The cardigan is made with 70% virgin wool and 30% cashmere, which should keep you more than comfortable in the fall and winter season.
17. Story mfg. Soil Spiral Twinsun Cardigan
- Color: Olive Torns
- Material: 100% organic cotton
- Best for: Taking your simple luxury to the next level
Story mfg. has steadily been on the rise, with their Reebok collaborations and well-composed collections. Most notable is their attention and care with craftsmanship, which is highlighted in this cardigan. The piece is hand knit with organic cotton that has all been naturally dyed and then hand embroidered. The spiral pattern adds a beautiful statement to the garment as well. Additionally, the sweater is made with 100% organic cotton (sustainable vibes), and features the standard rib knit Y-neck, cuffs, and hem, along with a button closure and a Intarsia graphic on the sleeve.
18. Bode Double-Breasted Cotton Cardigan
- Color: Brown
- Material: 100% Cotton
- Best for: Achieving a 1960s vibe
We thoroughly believe that Bode can do no wrong, and very little could convince me otherwise. Inspired by a 60s blanket, this solid brown cardigan features a beautiful double-breasted design that emphasizes the V-neck. It has a boxier fit than most sweaters, and is made from sustainable, recyclable, and ethically sourced cotton. Of note: you will have to dry clean this cardigan as opposed to washing on gentle, but it's worth it right?
19. Our Legacy Ribbed Knit Cardigan
- Color: Grey
- Material: 70% Acrylic, 30% virgin wool
- Best for: Elevating an understated look
This cardigan from Our Legacy is understated, while maintaining qualities that set it apart from the rest of the pack. The collared look isn’t frequently seen on cardigans, but the ribbed look of this one works. Additionally, the fabric is brushed to give the garment a nice worn-in look, and the sweater is composed of 70% acrylic and 30% virgin wool for warmth and durability when it's cold out.
20. Marni Men's Mohair Check Cardigan
- Color: Grey
- Material: Acetate/nylon/mohair
- Best for: Giving them a pop of fuzz
Without a doubt, this is the best cardigan of the year. Marni has spearheaded the mohair craze as of late, and this sweater right here is the pinnacle of the brand’s offerings. From the intricate acetate/nylon/mohair knit pattern to the spray painted color hits, Marni left no stone unturned when it came to designing the most beautiful cardigan possible. Unfortunately it costs about a month’s worth of rent, but hey, live a little.
21. GUESS Originals Label Cardigan
- Color: Black
- Material: 67% Acrylic, 33% polyamide/nylon
- Best for: Pairing with cargo pants
Don't sleep on GUESS for your cardigan browsing either as they tend to always have a decent rotating selection available. Made with 67% Acrylic and 33% polyamide/nylon, the cardigan has the traditional v-neck and ribbed trim, but is elevated by its front slip pockets which you can also use for additional storage space. Sizes range from XL to XXL, and the $108 price puts in on the affordable side. A major boost for your closet.
22. Pendleton Cardigan Wool Sweater
- Color: Tan/Brown, Navy/Brown
- Material: Lambs wool
- Best for: Sitting by the fireplace
A cozy sweater that will instantly go along with any fireplace you're sitting next to, this Cardigan Wool Sweater is equipped to serve the dual purpose of keeping you cozy and drawing instant to attention to your outfit with its fun design and lambs wool composition. There's also the incorporation of a shawl collar as opposed to the classic v-neck fit most cardigans come with, which brings a different dynamic to the the "traditional cardigan look." A cool cardigan that keeps you warm. Got to love it.
23. Ahluwalia Ongoye Mohair-Blend Cardigan
- Color: Red
- Material: 63% Super kid mohair, 25% nylon, 12% wool
- Best for: Dressing up and showing out
We're not sure it gets any better than this Ahluwalia Ongoye Mohair-Blend Cardigan, which is crafted primarily with super kid mohair, and nylon/wool completing the rest of the make up. The frayed and fuzzy design elevates the look to one that is slightly couture while still remaining casual, which also includes a graphic pattern, rib-knit cuffs, a button-front closure, and a intarsia design as the finisher.
24. Diesel Petalo Knit Cardigan
- Color: Blue
- Material: 48% Mohair/34% polyamide/nylon/18% wool
- Best for: Strutting city
Made in Italy, the Diesel Petalo Knit Cardigan features a sleek and smooth rib-knit trim and button-front placket that very nicely complements the overall design of the cardigan. Made with mohair, polyamide, nylon, and wool, the sweater gives off major city vibes with the ability to be worn open or closed to your liking. Pair these with a nice pair of semi-casual pants and if you've got yourself an instant office outfit that can easily transition to events outside of work.
25. Huckberry
- Color: Otter
- Material: 50% Seawool, 20% viscose, 20% nylon, 10% wool
- Best for: Showing up to the holiday party
Want a temperature regulating, quick drying, antimicrobial, that's also durable? Try out this Seawool Fisherman Shawl Cardigan Sweater from Huckberry, which is made with seawool, viscose, nylon, and wool. The perfect transition from the office to post-office events, you can't go wrong with this $188 purchase from Huckberry. Seriously.
26. Express Ribbed Sweater Blazer
- Color: Heather Grey, Camel
- Material: 64% Recycled polyester, 30% acrylic, 6% wool
- Best for: Pairing with jeans
Simple, efficient, and affordable this Ribbed Sweater Blazer from Express doesn't disappoint with its durable blend of recycled polyester, acrylic, and wool along with its attractive and versatile design. The sweater also features a button-down front, notch lapels, and patch hand pockets. Factor in the sustainability and great pricing, and this should be another no-brainer.
FAQs about cardigans for men:
Here are some frequently asked questions about cardigans for men:
Are cardigans in style for men in 2023?
Absolutely! In fact, cardigans are one of the major fall and winter trends that are on the horizon for FW23. It's safe to say that cardigans never truly never go out of style, but they are especially "in" this season.
How should a cardgian fit?
Most cardigans are made to be slightly oversized, so it's okay if they're slightly "big," but at the same time cardigans also have a natural taper to them, so they should be complimentary to your figure as a whole. A cardigan shouldn't look "boxy," "puffy," or "huge," unless it's designed to be that way.
What is the difference between a cardigan and a sweater?
While cardigans are under the sweater umbrella, they differ from a standard sweater due to their front opening, which can be closed by either a button (which is the most common design) or through zippers.
How do I style a cardigan?
Cardigans are one of the most versatile styling pieces as you can pair them with chinos, jeans, dress pants, or even a men's skirt if you want to. Cardigans also have great layering ability, so you can rock them underneath a jacket or coat on days where it's super cold or you are commuting outside. The shoes you can wear with cardigans depend on your choice of bottoms, but you can rock them with a variety of boots, sneakers, and dress shoes.