I spent the better part of my adolescence wearing a cardigan sweater. I went to a uniform school for 13 years and my arsenal of coloured cashmere was a way that I could switch up my look from day to day while still maintaining all of the dress code rules. Come college, I took my favourites with me, layering them over everything from silk camis to Hanes t-shirts. Post-grad, though, they felt a little tired and I took a hiatus.
Now, I'm finding a newfound love for the soft wardrobe classic. Instead of wearing it as a second layer, I've discovered, why not try it out as a shirt in and of itself? I've started to test out all different cuts, necklines, and fabrics to try to find the best ones that hold their own as a shirt, and have become totally obsessed with the look. My family and friends could tell you that it's become a brand-new uniform staple for me as of late.
Personally, I love a more open neckline that doesn't pull over the bustline or feel too restrictive, though a simple unbuttoning of the top does the trick on many occasions as well. The detail in styling makes a simple cardigan a seamless transitional item from day to night. Additionally, I'm shopping cuts that are a little more slouchy or boxy in feel to infuse a new life into the more traditional preppy staples. Ahead, find some of my favourites that are on my current wish list [1].
Anine Bing
Anine Bing Mason Mohair-Blend Cardigan [2] ($229)
The Row
The Row Abigael V-Neck Cardigan [3] ($895)
Goop G. Label
Goop G. Label Sonny Puff-Sleeve Cardigan [4] ($595)
James Perse
James Perse Colorblock Cashmere Cardigan [5] ($395)
Marni
Marni Striped Cashmere Cardigan [6] ($1,150)
& Other Stories
& Other Stories Wool-Blend Cardigan [7] ($99)
Kate Spade
Kate Spade Contrast Ribbed Cardigan [8] ($167, originally $278)
Thom Browne
Thom Browne Striped Grosgrain-Trimmed Wool Cardigan [9] ($1,290)
Missoni
Missoni Cropped Crochet-Knit Cardigan [10] ($800)
Nº21
Nº21 Mixed-Media Cardigan [11] ($795)
Toga
Toga Floral-Intarsia Wool Cardigan [12] ($520)
Zara
Zara Textured Openwork Cardigan [13] ($40)
Altuzarra
Altuzarra Natalia Gingham Silk-and-Cotton-Blend Cardigan [14] ($695)