Knitwear
Cardigans for men: how to wear one without looking old
By sneakersInn team · Updated
A cardigan looks modern when it fits close to the body, is made from a fine or medium knit in a strong plain colour, and is worn over a tee or open-collar shirt with jeans, chinos or tailored trousers. It looks old when it's baggy, long, thick and buttoned over a tie with formal trousers.
| Looks modern | Looks old |
|---|---|
| Fitted through the body | Baggy and shapeless |
| Ends at the belt | Hangs to the hips |
| Navy, olive, brown, cream, black | Washed-out beige and grey |
| Over a tee or open shirt | Buttoned over a shirt and tie |
| Jeans, chinos, cargos | Pleated formal trousers |
| Sneakers, loafers | Worn-out dress shoes |
Why own a cardigan in Accra?
It's the lightest jacket you can wear. A cotton cardigan over a tee handles air-conditioned rooms, harmattan mornings and coastal evenings without the heat of a blazer. It's also easy to carry over a shoulder or in a bag.
How should a cardigan fit?
The shoulder seam sits on your shoulder, the sleeves end at your wrist, and the hem ends around your belt. Buttoned, it lies flat without pulling. If you can pinch more than a couple of centimetres at the sides, it's too big.
How do I button it?
Open is most relaxed. Buttoned, leave the bottom button undone, like a suit jacket.
Five outfits that work
- Navy cardigan, white tee, dark jeans, white sneakers. Easy weekend.
- Olive cardigan, cream tee, stone chinos, brown suede loafers. Earth tones.
- Black cardigan, black tee, black trousers. Sleek evening look.
- Brown cardigan, light blue oxford shirt (open collar), navy chinos. Office-ready.
- Cream cardigan, navy polo, grey trousers. Smart casual dinner.
What styles exist?
- Fine-gauge V-neck: smartest, works like a light blazer.
- Shawl collar: thicker, relaxed, best for travel and cooler climates.
- Polo cardigan: has a collar, a modern take on the knitted polo. See the polo knit.
- Crewneck cardigan: buttons to the neck, minimal.
Can a cardigan replace a blazer?
At smart casual events and many offices, yes. At business formal events, no. See the 5 dress codes every man should understand.
Questions
Which yarn should I choose?
Cotton for Accra, fine merino for air conditioning and travel. See knitwear fabrics compared.
How do I stop it stretching?
Fold it rather than hang it. See how to wash and store knitwear.
Is a cardigan one of the essentials?
Yes, it's piece four in the 5 knitwear pieces every man needs.