16 Best Men's Shawl Cardigans, According to Style Editors
GQ RecommendsWant to feel like you’re wrapped in a big ol’ blanket? There’s a shawl cardi for that.By John JannuzziDecember 9, 2024Save this storySaveSave this storySaveAll products are independently selected by our editors. If you buy something, we may earn an affiliate commission.While the daintier nature of your average cardigan is more than welcome on warmer days, once winter hits, those positives quickly become negatives. During this time of year, what’s a guy who rightly appreciates buttoned-up knitwear meant to do? The answer is simple: wear a shawl collar cardigan.Sure, shawl collar cardigans might these days be more associated with your grandpa than the ‘gram, but the truth is, they’re an ageless staple of any well-dressed man’s wardrobe — and your grandpa is only wearing one because he’s lived long enough to realize that. The best men's shawl collar cardigans, which typically are made from a thicker wool throughout, are warmer than most sweaters, but unlike most sweaters, can be unbuttoned a touch (or fully) if they ever get too warm. And of course, that rolling collar itself provides so much added warmth around your neck and chest.If that weren’t enough, they’re also uncommonly versatile. Try pairing one with your everyday sweats and a t-shirt — boom, you’re not just casual, but you’re elevated casual. Then, with an Oxford shirt and some corduroys — okay, professor. Below, an extremely-vetted selection of the best on the market right now, from heritage classics to modern reworks.3/16L.L.BeanMen's Signature Cotton Fisherman Sweater$169 L.L.BeanKnit in a timeless fisherman pattern, this is essentially the fabled Knives Out sweater’s cardi cousin.4/16BodeFir Shawl Collar Cardigan$1,380 Mr PorterAll the best hallmarks of Bode’s design sensibility came out to play here: craftiness, humor and quality baked into a well-made full-zip sweater, which brings the neckline of its particular shawl collar extra high. Bonus points for the smoking snowman on the back.
All products are independently selected by our editors. If you buy something, we may earn an affiliate commission.
While the daintier nature of your average cardigan is more than welcome on warmer days, once winter hits, those positives quickly become negatives. During this time of year, what’s a guy who rightly appreciates buttoned-up knitwear meant to do? The answer is simple: wear a shawl collar cardigan.
Sure, shawl collar cardigans might these days be more associated with your grandpa than the ‘gram, but the truth is, they’re an ageless staple of any well-dressed man’s wardrobe — and your grandpa is only wearing one because he’s lived long enough to realize that. The best men's shawl collar cardigans, which typically are made from a thicker wool throughout, are warmer than most sweaters, but unlike most sweaters, can be unbuttoned a touch (or fully) if they ever get too warm. And of course, that rolling collar itself provides so much added warmth around your neck and chest.
If that weren’t enough, they’re also uncommonly versatile. Try pairing one with your everyday sweats and a t-shirt — boom, you’re not just casual, but you’re elevated casual. Then, with an Oxford shirt and some corduroys — okay, professor. Below, an extremely-vetted selection of the best on the market right now, from heritage classics to modern reworks.
1/16Drake's
Lambswool Shawl Collar Cardigan
Passengers looking for the most classic design out, alight here. Drake’s, unsurprisingly, has kept their shawl collar cardigan about as classic as they come, with soft lambswool, brown knotted leather buttons, and loosened-up pockets. Yes, the price is high, but that’s really because Drake’s knows it hasn’t compromised on a thing.
2/16Sid Mashburn
Shawl Collar Cardigan
Also simple, also perfect. Like others on this list, this Sid Mashburn sweater is made of lambswool, but it also brings in a slight touch of nylon, for a little extra durability. While the knotted leather buttons are as big as any others on this list, Sid’s version has more of a medium weight, and a narrower collar that makes this more of a four-season play.
3/16L.L.Bean
Men's Signature Cotton Fisherman Sweater
Knit in a timeless fisherman pattern, this is essentially the fabled Knives Out sweater’s cardi cousin.
5/16Colhay's
Superfine Lambswool Shawl Collar Cardigan
Colhay’s is new on the scene, but hot on the heels of many of the heritage manufacturers above, because it’s obsessive about getting the details right. With a 6-ply lambswool construction and truly seafaring collar size, this might just be the toastiest of our entire tally. Bonus: It also comes in dark brown, navy, olive, black, charcoal, and ecru.
6/16J.Crew
Rugged Merino Wool-Blend Cardigan Sweater
Merino tends to get lost in the classic sweater conversation, but it’s a more affordable unsung hero with natural sweat-wicking properties and a soft feel. Plop all that into a sweater with a nice wide collar, and at a great price? Consider it considered.
10/16The Elder Statesman
Shawl-Collar Cashmere Cardigan
When it comes to cashmere, it’s tough to get softer, or more luxurious, and obviously, more zany than the Elder Statesman. With a print like that and shawl collar that goes… all the way down, it’s not for everyone, but you’ll surely know if it’s for you.
12/16Cordings
4-Ply Lambswool Cardigan
Cordings is about 150 years older than fellow British haberdasher Drake’s, but it flies under the radar because it prizes itself (maybe too much) on being understated. But those who know know it’s a gem—and this well-priced option (for 4-Ply lambswool with leather buttons) is proof of exactly why.
