The Shawl Collar Is the King of Cardigans
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When we think kingly, we think luxury. Polished shoes, shiny Rolexes, maybe even a really hefty bulldog with a gold chain around its neck. If we have a more understated sophistication lens, we also think cardigans. Not just any cardigan, but the patriarch of cardigans, the Logan Roy of cardigans, the cardigan to put all other cardigans to shame for being too casual: the shawl collar cardigan. We're firm believers that it's the reigning champ of knitwear you've been overlooking for the past decade.
There's something about the transparent chunkiness of the thing that pairs so well with the roomier silhouettes we've been championing. Wrapping yourself in the warm embrace in one of these is like spending a meaningful weekend with your grandpa, sans any of the meandering (and often embellished) anecdotes. Try wearing a hefty cable knit version with the pleated cords you recently bought and your favorite thick-soled loafers. Or, layer a ribbed take over a fine gauge turtleneck for a look that leans into the style's retro charm.
Any good cardigan connoisseur has a shawl collar cardigan stash already, and anyone who hopes to someday exude as much wealth and gravitas as said connoisseurs needs to get one ASAP. The only real way to rock a shawl collar cardigan is to find the right one and wear it like the king you are. Start with this list.
Classic Ragg Wool Cardigan
A ragg wool sweater generations of Bean devotees have relied on to keep them warm through the worst of winter. This is as classic as they come, with a warm, soft lambswool knit that our editors love. The deep patch pockets are great for storing your essentials, from a wallet and keys to a pair of glasses. As far as coziness goes, this is at the top of the list.
Aran Cardigan
Made with pure merino wool in the village of Monasterevin, Ireland, this is the real deal. Signals uses Aran stitching to give this an extra dose of authenticity, with a warm-yet-breathable marled fabric that has a vintage flair. This style also has deep patch pockets on the front, perfect for stuffing your hands into on a chilly morning.
Long-Sleeve Shawl Collar Cardigan
You don't have to search far and wide for the perfect shawl collar cardigan. It's as easy as going on Amazon—they make their own style that's plush, cozy, and under 35 bucks. This is a staple that I find to be one of the most versatile picks on the market; it looks just as good with ripped jeans and dirty sneakers as it does with pleated pants and leather loafers. For work or for play, this is an affordable option that'll be with you for a long time.
100% Organic Cotton Shawl-Collar Cardigan
When you're wearing a cardigan, you expect to be enveloped in softness. Quince exceeds that expectation with a 100% organic cotton style that's still chic. With a more fitted silhouette than the usual relaxed, oversized cardigans, this is the way to go for those who don't want a baggy silhouette (and if you do, just size up from your usual).
Somac Cardigan
One of our favorite designers stepping into the menswear space, Nili Lotan creates an unbeatable cashmere cardigan. It's long, luxe, and warm as hell—this is the kind of cardigan that evokes a cool, laid-back, rock 'n' roll, Lenny Kravitz-type aura, rather than the Ivy League English professor look that most shawl collars have. Throw it over a button-down or a tee, add some Chelsea boots, and let the magic happen.
Herdsman Shawl Cardigan
Winter is the season for pulling your chunky knits out, and Buck Mason crafts a cozy, chunky shawl collar cardigan that you're going to want to keep close. The cashmere and merino wool blend is soft and warm, with practical patch pockets and ribbing throughout. Plus, this has already been garment-washed for a pre-loved, pre-worn feel.
Made in L.A. Fleece Shawl Cardigan
Fuzzy, soft, and warm, this fleece cardigan is going to be the layer you never want to take off. Todd Snyder imbues this style with the brand's signature cool factor, which includes military-inspired details throughout, box pleats on the pockets, and horn buttons. It feels like your favorite fleece sweatshirt, but it looks so much damn better.
Recycled Cotton Headlands Cardigan Sweater
Soft recycled cotton makes this shawl collar cardigan one of the coziest picks on the market. It's breathable yet warm, thanks to the waffle-knit construction, with patch pockets and two patch pockets at the hips. Dress this style up or down as you please; it's one of those things that you can just throw on and go.
Shawl-Collar Merino Wool Cardigan
Cos takes on the shawl collar cardigan the way it takes on everything: with absolute chicness, and a healthy dose of European refinement. Unlike the many patch-pocket options on this list, this style has side-entry pockets at the hips for a minimalist, sleeker look. The heavyweight merino wool is perfectly warm for winter—Cos designed this cardi to replace a jacket, so you can rest easy knowing your top layer is your best layer.
Double-Breasted Shawl-Collar Cardigan Sweater
Leave it to J.Crew to add some extra sophistication to a shawl collar cardigan. The brand takes this style to the next level with a double-breasted look that mimics your best suit jacket, as well as leather-trimmed pockets—the perfect touch.
Luxury Jersey Cardigan
For the shawl collar look without the heavyweight feel, PRL has you covered. This jersey cardigan is lightweight yet elegant, crafted from smooth, breathable cotton. It goes with your chinos, khakis, jeans, and even joggers, if that's your vibe; it's all about comfort and style in one.
Wool Blend Fair Isle Cardigan
It's not really winter without a Fair Isle knit in your wardrobe, is it? Schott has a warm, vintage-inspired cardigan with the traditional Scottish pattern—as well as a warm, wooly construction that's heavy enough to brave a traditional Scottish winter.
Shawl-Collar Ribbed Wool Cardigan
Tom Ford does quiet luxury to a tee with this wool cardigan. The thick shawl collar is fit for a king, and the 100% wool fabric is cozy as can be. It's plush and luxurious in feel, and, true to Tom Ford's vocabulary, chic and elegant in looks.
Lambswool Shawl Collar Cardigan
This is the kind of shawl collar cardigan that your future great-grandchildren are still going to be wearing. That's to say: it's a heritage piece, and one that'll never go out of style. This lambswool pick has a slightly oversized, relaxed fit that evokes "grandpa chic" in the best way.
Shawl-Collar Knitted Cashmere Cardigan
Don't forget to pack this one for your next ski trip. Knit from cashmere in Italy, Brunello Cucinelli imbues this refined style with all the quality and care the brand is known for. It has a relaxed fit and a weighted feel, and a look that just makes you want to open a leather-bound book in front of a fireplace, doesn't it?
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