Cardigans for Men: The Style Guide Every Guy Needs
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In the ever-evolving world of men's fashion, certain staples endure, and the cardigan is one such piece. Once relegated to the back of the closet, the humble men's cardigan has re-emerged as a versatile and stylish wardrobe staple for modern men. Whether you're dressing for a casual day at the office or a weekend outing, there's a cardigan male style to suit every occasion.
If you ever wonder what’s the one piece in your wardrobe that can elevate your style right away. That’s your cardigan! From the classic black cardigan to statement burgundy cardigans, today’s iterations range from sleek, fitted designs to cropped cardigans that perfectly complement the modern male silhouette. With 2026 fashion trends leaning toward tailored, slightly cropped styles, now is the perfect time to rethink how you wear this wardrobe essential.
Are Cardigans Still in Style for Men?
The short answer: absolutely. In fact, if you’ve been in a situation where you need a jacket but don’t want to carry it around indoors – a cardigan is your solution. The cardigan trend is thriving in men’s style, thanks to a shift toward clean lines, premium fabrics, and contemporary fits. Fabrics have also evolved: lightweight cotton for summer, soft merino cardigans for easy layering, and chunky knit cardigans for a textured statement in winter. Designers are experimenting with cuts and lengths, making cardigans a versatile addition for professional, casual and designer wardrobes.
As Taelor’s Head of Styling Melissa Slavick points out, “A classic cardigan is a timeless piece that adds a touch of luxury to any outfit. A go-to layer that instantly lifts your style.”
The modern cardigan is no longer just a layering piece; it’s a style statement. Bold hues like green cardigans or burgundy cardigans are pairing effortlessly with neutral staples, while classic navy cardigans or black cardigans remain foundational for a polished look.
What Are the Rules for Cardigans for Men?
Styling a men’s cardigan comes down to proportion, texture, and occasion. A cropped cardigan pairs beautifully with slim-fit jeans or tailored trousers, emphasizing structure without appearing stiff. For a more relaxed, casual vibe, a chunky knit cardigan over a t-shirt or lightweight shirt adds texture and dimension. Meanwhile, a cable knit cardigan or a zip-up cardigan worn open over a crisp button-down balances casual sophistication.
Just like a fuzzy cardigan or oversized cardigan can bring comfort and personality to colder months while staying fashion-forward, warmer temperatures call for a summer cardigan in breathable fabrics like cotton or linen. These lighter knit cardigans are ideal for layering without overheating.
Melissa Slavick adds, “Don’t shy away from bold colours like a burgundy cardigan or green cardigan. They inject personality and modernity, helping a man express style subtly but effectively.”
Other subtle rules to consider: keep sleeve lengths aligned with your wrists, avoid cardigans that are too loose unless intentionally oversized, and pair structured cardigans with streamlined bottoms to avoid looking shapeless.
Watch the true review from Taelor customer Antonio Sanson
Rent. Return. Save the planet
Not only do Taelor and Nuuly both use the rent-and-return model, they both do so for the same reason: sustainability.
Nuuly and Taelor are both part of the so-called “ fashion sharing economy .” Fashion sharing allows a customer to pay a small percentage of the cost on an item, while getting more items to wear, reducing the impact on the environment of clothes manufacturing and disposal.
Fashion sharing is the opposite of “fast fashion,” in which low-cost items are made at scale with the understanding that they will have a limited lifespan. Fast-fashion clothes create new demand because they don’t last. Fast fashion items quickly wind up in landfills, doing substantial damage to the environment.
Other than men's fashion, Taelor is well known for its commitment to the environment . So is Nuuly.
Want to learn more about how Taelor fits in the fashion-sharing economy? Check out this article comparing Taelor to Rent the Runway .
Should Men's Cardigans Be Worn Open or Closed?
Whether to wear your cardigan open or closed depends on both style goals and the type of cardigan. Open cardigans work brilliantly with layering, creating a dynamic visual while maintaining a casual, approachable feel. For instance, an open white cardigan over a black cardigan or a neutral tee can instantly modernize a look. A zip-up cardigan is a versatile choice as it allows an easy transition from open to closed or the other way around.
Closed cardigans, especially in fitted or cropped cardigan styles, offer refinement. A buttoned or zipped black cardigan with tailored pants or jeans can be surprisingly office-appropriate, bridging casual and smart casual effortlessly. Even patterned chunky knit cardigans can be buttoned up for an intentional, composed appearance.
The 2026 trend favors flexibility — cardigans should adapt to both relaxed weekend settings and structured weekday outfits, making the men's cardigan a true all-season staple.
What to Wear with Cardigans for Men?
The right pairing can enhance the look of any cardigan. Slim jeans or chinos anchor cropped cardigans, while long cardigan sweaters complement relaxed-fit jeans or trousers. Footwear can range from minimal sneakers for casual days to polished boots for more dressed-up occasions.
For layering, a lightweight cardigan over a t-shirt adds effortless casual polish, while a merino cardigan atop a collared shirt adds a refined look. Neutral cardigans like black cardigans, navy cardigans, and brown cardigans provide a versatile base, while burgundy cardigans or green cardigans introduce playful contrast without overpowering.
Even summer cardigans can be styled effectively with tailored shorts or linen trousers. Cropped silhouettes and fitted cuts are particularly suitable here, balancing comfort with contemporary flair. Accessories like scarves or subtle necklaces can add dimension to cardigans, creating a relaxed yet purposeful look.
Embracing the Cardigan in 2026
With a mix of contemporary tailoring, bold colors, and versatile fabrics, the cardigan male is firmly in style for 2026. From chunky knit cardigans that exude casual confidence to cropped cardigans that highlight modern silhouettes, this is a garment that can define a man’s wardrobe across seasons. Investing in a mix of textures — cable knit cardigans, lightweight cardigans and chunky cardigans — ensures adaptability for both work and leisure.
The beauty of the modern men’s cardigan lies in its ability to transform an outfit effortlessly. Whether paired with jeans, chinos, or even shorts for summer, cardigans offer comfort, style, and an understated elegance. As men embrace more expressive colors and modern fits, cardigans have proven they are anything but passé. They’re a reliable, stylish, and increasingly essential wardrobe building block.
In short, cardigans are no longer a background player in men’s fashion — they are a statement. Tailored, cropped cardigans and bold hues are the story for 2026, and wearing one thoughtfully can uplift your everyday wardrobe while staying on-trend.
Want some help finding and choosing clothes that will make you the best possible version of you (without having to do laundry or spend a fortune), let Taelor help . Taelor is a menswear rental subscription service dedicated to helping men look their best when it matters most. Our styling service, powered by a human stylist and assisted by artificial intelligence, finds the clothes that help you win – at work, on a date, at a party, or wherever you spend your time.
LOOKING FOR THE BEST SUBSCRIPTION SERVICE FOR MEN?
Look no further! Taelor is the answer. It offers a personal touch with dedicated stylists, a uniquely collaborative model between AI and human stylists, ensuring sustainable fashion as well as value for money. Whether you’re a busy professional, an eco-friendly individual, or simply someone looking to reduce waste in his wardrobe, Taelor offers the perfect solution for you. It’s style on your terms, with no need to buy.
