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The Cardigan Sweater

Published 5:00 PST, Mon November 24, 2025

Fashion For Men

During the fall, winter and early spring months it is important to find the right sweater to keep yourself comfortable. If you work in an office like I do some winter days the emperature can be just a bit uncomfortable to wear just a shirt and wearing a blazer all day can be uncomfortable especially if you are sitting and working at your desk. The item to add to your wardrobe to solve this, is the Cardigan sweater. Although casual, it still looks classic and some even add a dress shirt and tie to still look dressy.

HISTORY

Cardigan sweaters as we know them today first became popular around the mid-19th century, specifically during the Crimean War. The garment is named after James Thomas Brudenell, the 7th Earl of Cardigan, who led the infamous Charge of the Light Brigade. His preference for wearing a knitted wool jacket during the war is said to have inspired the design.

While the Crimean War popularized the Cardigan, the garment itself has roots in earlier styles of knitted waistcoats and jackets. The term "Cardigan" initially referred to a knitted waistcoat, but later expanded to include the sleeved versions. The modern sleeved Cardigan gained popularity in the late 1800s and early 1900s, particularly in menswear as a fashionable item as it emerged as a more relaxed alternative to the waistcoat, offering a stylish everyday option.

By the 1920’s Coco Chanel introduced casual chic with knitted jerseys, and Fair Isle Patterns became popular, including Cardigans paired with tailored slacks. The Cardigan was also adopted by American designers for sporty and collegiate styles.

The Cardigan sweater was popularized by figures like Albert Einstein and British Prime Minister Harold Macmillan, solidifying its association with intellectualism and a relaxed, comfortable style. This trend was further embraced by the Ivy League crowd and became a symbol of preppy fashion.

By the 1950’s, 1960’s thru to the 1970’s the Cardigan sweater peaked at its all-time high in popularity special thanks to almost all major Hollywood celebrities at the time who often wore this sweater from Bing Crosby, Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, Perry Como, and of course Steve McQueen.

Also during this time the Cardigan sweater became a popular part of one’s wardrobe in the game of Golf with all of the greats of the game wearing it like Arnold Palmer, Ben Hogan, Gary Player, and Jack Nicklaus just to name a few. As well as other sports legends in their personal life like boxer Muhammad Ali.

The most common Cardigan designs for men include the V-neck, shawl collar, and full-button styles. These designs are versatile and can be styled for both casual and more formal occasions. Zipped Cardigans and hooded versions are also popular, though they may be considered less classic in some circles.

Here's a more detailed look at the common designs:

V-neck Cardigans: These are a staple in menswear and are often chosen for their versatility and ability to pair well with collared shirts and other formal wear. They typically feature a deep V-neckline and are often made from fine knits, according to ApparelnBags.com

Shawl Collar Cardigans: Known for their distinctive, folded collar, these Cardigans offer a more sophisticated look and are often favored for their comfort and style. They can be a great alternative to a blazer or sport coat.

Full Button Cardigans: These are characterized by a full-length button closure and can be found in various materials, from cotton to merino wool. They are a classic and versatile option for layering.

Zipped Cardigans: While not always considered as timeless as button-down styles, zipped Cardigans offer a modern twist and are often chosen for their practicality and ease of wear.

Hooded Cardigans: Hooded Cardigans are a popular choice for a more casual and relaxed look, particularly in colder weather. Seen in the pictures attached are a traditional vintage V-neck Cardigan made by Lacoste Izod from the 1970’s as well as a modern classic shawl Collar Cardigan.

RESURGENCE

By the mid 1980’s through the first decade of the millennium, the Cardigan sweater declined in popularity due to changing fashion trends and rise of other sweater styles. However, the men's Cardigan sweater saw a significant resurgence in popularity starting around 2019-2020, with a notable increase in visibility and adoption by both celebrities and the general public.

A New York Times article from November 2019 noted the growing trend, citing its presence in various media and the fashion choices of several high-profile celebrities, such as David Beckham, Pharrell Williams, and Daniel Craig, were seen sporting Cardigans, further solidifying the sweaters comeback. But let’s face it, the sweater has probably come back due to the sweaters versatility, comfort, and ability to blend classic and contemporary styles. They offer a polished alternative to blazers, while also providing a relaxed, cozy feel that aligns with the current trend and a classic never goes out of style for long.