Texture — it’s what knitwear offers that technical fabrics lack. Whether it’s the twist of a cable, the stippling of a seed-stitch or the warble of a ribbing, the tactile variation in knitted garments is unmatched in the sartorial world. A piece of light outerwear, like a chunky cardigan, can add pattern and shape to an otherwise uninspired ensemble; throw a cardigan over your button-down for a knitted take on business casual, or rock one unbuttoned with a tee and jeans for a casual-cool weekend look. Treat the options below like your favorite jacket, and they’ll keep you warm while adding variety to your assemblage of cold-weather wears.
Folk Honeycomb Zip Cardigan
Folk’s zip cardigan features a honeycomb knit and is made from cotton blended with a small percentage of Lycra (meaning: this will move freely and not feel restricting).
S.N.S. Herning Stark Cardigan
Drawing on a history of supplying Scandinavian fishermen with quality knits, S.N.S. Herning offers this 100 percent wool cardigan in a lattice-texture knit. And, for those chilly nights, it also buttons through the collar.
Journal Standard x Unionmade Shawl Cardigan
Made in Japan, this cardigan is woven with indigo-dyed cotton slub yarn that has an uneven texture. Wood buttons and cable-knit detailing make this a perfect statement piece.
Inverallan 6A Shawl Cardigan
This sweater is handmade in Scotland from 100 percent Scottish lambswool, and features traditional cable patterns worn by fisherman for centuries.
Zanone Birdseye Shawl Cardigan
This Italian seed-stitch sweater from Zanone is stippled like a basketball, and its cotton/linen blend will keep it wearable as the temperature rises.
AMI Shawl-Collar Cable-Knit Cardigan
A ribbed shawl collar contrasts with the cable-knit pattern in this midnight-blue merino wool cardigan by AMI.
Nonnative Traveller Zip Sweater
This ribbed knit sweater from Nonnative is made from a flecked cotton blend yarn. A double zipper, hidden pockets and an understated collar complete the notable details of this Japanese-made cardigan.
