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 sheer 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.
Aran Cardigan
Made with pure merino wool in the village of Monasterevin, Ireland, this is the real deal.
Rugged Merino Wool Cardigan
It's rugged. You know it not just by looking at it, but because it's right there in the name.
Luxury Jersey Cardigan
Made from super-soft jersey, PRL's take on the shawl collar cardigan is a refined, everyday staple.
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 50 bucks.
Tweed Pattern Shawl Collar Cardigan
BR Factory brings the same timeless elegance to the shawl collar cardigan as it does to most other things. With denim and boots or dress pants and loafers, you’re in for a chic-yet-cozy day. Grab this discounted style before it's too late.
Marled Cotton Cardigan
This is the kind of shawl collar cardigan that you put on when it’s chilly outside, and you have a cup of steaming tea, and maybe a nice, leather-bound book to read.
Old Town Shawl Cardigan
A chunky (yet charming!), tailored version made from soft, warm wool. With leather-covered buttons and ribbed cuffs, it really is luxe down to the detail.
Nate Cardigan
The cable knit vibe is always welcome, but sometimes, you want to reach for something a little smoother, maybe with a print or pattern. That's where this one comes in, with its vintage-inspired stripe stretching across the front and arms.
Rib Shawl Cardigan
A relaxed fit, oversized option that pairs very nicely with fuzzy slippers, sweats, and a WFH day.
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.
Slim-Fit Shawl Collar Ribbed Cashmere Cardigan
A typically luxurious take courtesy of the sweater experts par excellence in Solomeo.
Fisherman's Cable Shawl Collar Cardigan
A thick cable knit that, despite being a cozy sweater, doesn't dress down even the most refined of looks.
Shawl Collar Cardigan
For a basic option without the frills and fuss (and high price tag), Narex has you covered.
Somac Cardigan
One of our favorite designers stepping into the menswear space, Nili Lotan creates an unbeatable cashmere cardigan.
Shawl Collar 4 Bar Cardigan
Stay true to your preppy roots with this striped pick from Thom Browne.
Corden Neppy Shawl Collar Cardigan
Pair it with jeans, chinos, khakis, or even sweatpants.
Donegal Shawl Collar Cardigan
The kind of cardigan you never put away in your closet—it's easier to leave it out, because you know you're going to reach for it every day.
Shawl Cardigan
With roomy pockets, a slouchy fit, and a whole lot of warmth, this just screams "It's fall!"
Shawl-Collar Ribbed Wool and Silk-Blend Cardigan
If Logan Roy were a shawl collar cardigan, he'd be this one.
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