Temperatures across the globe are beginning to plummet, meaning the best months for fashion are upon us. Winter wardrobes mean you have an abundance of options thanks to layering and accessories, with cardigans the must-have layer for the brisk months ahead. A piece of knitwear once linked exclusively to the older gentlemen, cardigans are now just as essential to the Gen Z and Millenial fashionistas amongst us.
I give you a breakdown of the best cardigans available on the market today, with each knit perfect as a layer or a stand-alone piece.
MARNI STRIPE MOHAIR CARDIGAN – £790 / US$1075
If you are looking to grab your first ever cardigan, Marni consistently offers some of the best versions that money can buy. A mix of vibrant hues combined with striped detailing has become a mainstay of the Marni knitwear range, with the brushed mohair blend giving the knit that eye-catching fuzzy finish.
The luxury Italian fashion label offers premium quality products every season. Expect the stripe mohair cardigan to elevate any outfit you pair it with instantly.
BEAMS PLUS BOTANICAL JACQUARD KNIT CARDIGAN – £249 / US$295
Tokyo’s very own Beams Plus prides itself on redefining preppy menswear with a Japanese twist. In the brands latest offering, we see it take over the knit cardigan with a retro-inspired pattern. The botanical design draws inspiration from vintage floral prints and is crafted from a mix of mohair, wool and nylon, making this knit cardigan perfect for all weather.
Button this cardigan over a tee and wear it under a wool coat to emphasise the striking design, guaranteed to keep you warm through the coldest of months.
AIMÉ LEON DORE WAFFLE KNIT CARDIGAN – £395 / US$525
Teddy Santis‘ Aimé Leon Dore has produced some seriously breathtaking knits over the last few years. The NYC-based streetwear label loves combining classic menswear pieces with reimagined classics like sweats, giving the product a completely new lease on life.
The waffle knit features deep, rich winter-ready hues and is crafted entirely from cotton. ALD cardigans are to be paired with everything from dress shirts to tracksuits. If versatility is what you are looking for, this cardigan is the one for you.
WACKO MARIA LEOPARD JACQUARD KNIT CARDIGAN – £565 / US$735
Wacko Maria leans into its name with the Leopard jacquard knit cardigan, opting for a wacky print throughout the design. Leopard print has become a mainstay of many Wacko Maria releases, a constant crowd-pleaser for the legions of fans that follow the Tokyo-based streetwear label.
Wacko Maria founders Keiji Ishizuka and Atsuhiko Mori love for their pieces to stand out amongst a crowd. If you feel the same, then this Leopard cardigan is a must-have. This blue animal print cardi fuses wool and mohair seamlessly for a seriously textured look, making this knit a statement piece like no other.
OUR LEGACY FAUX FUR CARDIGAN – £315 / US$410
Swedish label Our Legacy has gone from strength to strength in recent years, with its die-hard fanbase multiplying in size. This growth is partly down to legendary collaborations with the likes of Stüssy but primarily due to the outstanding apparel released season after season.
OL turned its attention towards cardigans this season, with a super fluffy version covered in faux fur. The cardi is made of wool and alpaca for unbeatable warmth and covered in an earthy green hue, making it the perfect winter knit. Planning on hitting the Swedish Christmas markets this year? Let Our Legacy deck you out for the trip.
NEEDLES MOHAIR SOLID CARDIGAN – £269 / US$319
NEEDLES consistently creates pieces that blur the lines between laidback and elegant with streetwear pieces crafted from the finest materials. Founded and designed by NEPENTHES CEO Keizo Shimizu back in 1995, NEEDLES produces a wide range of products. Tracksuits, dinner jackets and loafers all feature in the brand’s back catalogue.
The mohair solid cardigan cut to a relaxed fit personifies the brand perfectly, made in Japan to the highest specifications, covered in a striking purple colourway and brushed for added softness. If luxury is what you are searching for, this is the knit you need to add to your winter rotation.
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