What to Wear with Men's Cardigan?

Cardigans are a timeless and versatile piece of clothing that can add warmth, texture, and a sense of sophistication to any outfit.

Whether you’re dressing up for a formal occasion or dressing down for a casual outing, a cardigan can seamlessly fit into a wide range of styles.

But the question remains: what exactly should you wear with a men's cardigan?

Why You Should Own a Cardigan

The cardigan has been around for centuries and has evolved from a functional, military garment into a classic wardrobe staple for both casual and formal looks.

It’s incredibly versatile and can be worn year-round, making it a key piece for men who like to maintain a stylish and adaptable wardrobe.

A good cardigan strikes the balance between a sweater and a jacket.

It’s lightweight enough for layering but offers more structure than a basic pullover sweater.

Plus, the button-up or zip-up design makes it easy to adjust your look depending on your style or the weather.

The Different Types of Men's Cardigans

Before diving into outfit ideas, it's important to understand the types of men's cardigans available, as each has its own styling potential.

Classic Button-Down Cardigan

This is the traditional style most people associate with cardigans. It features buttons down the front and is often made from wool, cotton, or cashmere.

Perfect for layering, it works well over shirts or t-shirts and can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion.

Shawl Collar Cardigan

Shawl collar cardigans have a distinctive rounded collar that gives them a slightly more sophisticated or even cozy look.

They can add a layer of warmth and elegance to your outfit, making them ideal for chillier days.

Zip-Up Cardigan

A zip-up cardigan offers a more modern, sporty vibe. It's less formal than a button-down version but still provides the warmth and versatility of a cardigan. It pairs well with casual wear, including t-shirts and jeans.

V-Neck Cardigan

The v-neck cardigan is slightly more refined than its crew-neck counterpart. It’s perfect for layering over shirts or polo shirts, offering a balance between casual and semi-formal styling.

Cardigan and T-Shirt Combo

For a simple and casual look, pairing your cardigan with a basic t-shirt is a no-brainer. This combo is perfect for a laid-back weekend or a trip to the coffee shop.

Opt for a slim-fitting cardigan if you prefer a modern silhouette. A basic crew-neck or v-neck t-shirt underneath will complete the look.

Cardigan with a Graphic Tee

For a touch of personality, a cardigan layered over a graphic tee is an easy and fun combination.

This works well for casual days when you want to add a little flair to your outfit without overthinking it.

The graphic tee can be a band logo, a quirky print, or a minimalist design—whatever reflects your personality.

Cardigan and Button-Down Shirt

For a smart-casual appearance, you can never go wrong with a cardigan over a button-down shirt. This pairing strikes the perfect balance between polished and approachable.

Choose a shirt with a subtle pattern like gingham, checkered, or solid colors to keep the look refined but not too formal.

Layering with a Polo Shirt

A cardigan over a polo shirt is a perfect option for those days when you want to dress up slightly without going all the way.

This is ideal for a casual office environment, a dinner date, or weekend outings where you want to look put-together but not too formal.

Cardigan Under a Blazer

One of the best ways to wear a cardigan for business casual occasions is to layer it under a blazer.

This look is refined and sharp while still offering the comfort of a cardigan. Go for a thinner, lightweight cardigan if you want to layer it comfortably under a blazer.

Cardigan with Dress Pants

If you want to keep things simple yet professional, wear your cardigan with a pair of dress pants and a collared shirt underneath.

This outfit is ideal for office environments with a business-casual dress code or casual Fridays when you still want to maintain a smart appearance.

Cardigan with a Dress Shirt and Tie

For a semi-formal look, consider pairing a cardigan with a dress shirt and tie. This is a great option for events that require a bit more polish but aren’t entirely formal, like a dinner party or a gathering with friends.

Cardigan as a Top Layer Over a Suit

This look works well for chilly evenings or more casual weddings.

Wear a cardigan as an outer layer over a well-fitted suit to add some warmth and a bit of personality.

It’s a great way to mix comfort with style, especially for evening events or fall and winter gatherings.

Cardigans and Jackets

If you need extra warmth during colder months, a cardigan can be layered under or over outerwear.

When layering over a cardigan, a trench coat, leather jacket, or pea coat is an excellent option. This creates a rugged yet refined aesthetic.

When layering a cardigan under outerwear, a classic wool overcoat or a tailored blazer can add sophistication and warmth without compromising your style.

Cardigans and Jeans:

Pair the look with your favorite pair of jeans. Slim-fit or straight-leg jeans are the most popular options, but you can also rock a looser pair if that’s your style.

Dark wash jeans tend to elevate the look, while light wash or distressed jeans add a casual flair.

Conclusion

Men's cardigans are a timeless and versatile wardrobe staple.

So, don't hesitate to experiment and find the combinations that work best for your personal style.

With the right pairings, your cardigan can quickly become a go-to piece for comfort and style.