From playing the role of an item in the academic wardrobe, cardigans have now turned into a fashionable, trendy, and must-have staple for modern men’s clothes. These knitted essentials can provide warmth, style, and versatility and thus combine with several other pieces for both casual and semi-formal styles.
With varying cuts, colors, and textures, cardigans allow men the scope to experiment and express their own distinct style while being practical. Here’s how these 40 cardigan outfit ideas can carry your wardrobe to that next level and be ready for that next statement look.
1. Chic Urban Layering
Pair a charcoal cardigan with a crisp white button-down shirt and dark denim jeans. This look effortlessly combines sophistication with casual charm. Add sleek leather sneakers for a laid-back vibe. Ideal for a brunch date or a casual office setting. This outfit showcases refined taste while keeping comfort in mind.
Top: A charcoal cardigan layered over a crisp white button-down shirt.
Bottom: Dark denim jeans and sleek leather sneakers complete this sophisticated yet casual look.
2. Casual Weekend Vibes
A navy cardigan layered over a graphic tee and khaki chinos radiates a relaxed yet stylish essence. Complete this look with suede loafers for a touch of elegance. Perfect for weekend outings or casual meetups with friends. It allows for easy movement while maintaining a trendy aesthetic. Effortless style never looked this good.
Top: A navy cardigan worn over a graphic tee.
Bottom: Khaki chinos and suede loafers create a relaxed yet stylish ensemble.
3. Sophisticated Layered Look
Imagine a dark green cardigan over a fine-knit turtleneck paired with tailored trousers. This ensemble is ideal for cooler days when you want warmth without sacrificing style. Leather boots elevate the entire look, bringing sophistication. Perfect for a gallery opening or a business casual event. Timeless elegance meets modern flair.
Top: A dark green cardigan layered over a fine-knit turtleneck.
Bottom: Tailored trousers paired with leather boots elevate this polished outfit.
4. Smart Casual Ensemble
A light grey cardigan worn over a patterned shirt brings personality to any outfit. Combine with dark jeans and Chelsea boots for an upscale casual look. This outfit strikes a balance between playful and polished. Perfect for a dinner date or a night out. Style and comfort coexist beautifully here.
Top: A light grey cardigan draped over a patterned shirt.
Bottom: Dark jeans and Chelsea boots finish off this upscale casual look.
5. Relaxed Traveler’s Attire
Layer a soft cardigan over a breathable henley and comfy joggers. This look embraces comfort during long travels while remaining stylish. Pair with classic sneakers for an effortless vibe. Great for weekend getaways or airport looks. Casual style meets functionality in this outfit.
Top: A soft cardigan over a breathable henley.
Bottom: Comfortable joggers and classic sneakers keep this outfit laid-back yet stylish.
6. Elegant Evening Out
A deep burgundy cardigan draped over a black dress shirt creates a striking contrast. Pair with tailored black trousers for a refined evening look. Complete with oxford shoes for a polished finish. Ideal for upscale dining or evening events. An outfit that commands attention without being overdone.
Top: A deep burgundy cardigan layered over a black dress shirt.
Bottom: Tailored black trousers and oxford shoes create a refined evening ensemble.
7. Timeless Preppy Style
A cream cardigan layered over a pastel-coloured polo shirt looks fresh and vibrant. Combine with tailored shorts and loafers for a classic preppy vibe. This ensemble works perfectly for a summer outing or a picnic. Style radiates effortless charm while maintaining comfort. Ready for sunny days in style.
Top: A cream cardigan layered over a pastel-colored polo shirt.
Bottom: Tailored shorts and loafers bring a classic preppy vibe perfect for summer outings.
8. Rugged Outdoorsman
Combine a chunky knit cardigan with a plaid flannel shirt and rugged jeans. This look encapsulates outdoor adventure while remaining stylish. Hiking boots complete the ensemble, providing practicality and style. Perfect for weekend hikes or casual gatherings. Rugged yet refined, it suits the modern man’s lifestyle.
Top: A chunky knit cardigan paired with a plaid flannel shirt.
Bottom: Rugged jeans and hiking boots provide both style and practicality.
9. Laid-Back Beach Day
A lightweight cardigan tossed over a tank top and swim trunks creates a beach-ready look. Perfect for cooler seaside evenings or casual beach walks. Flip-flops bring a relaxed feel, making this outfit effortlessly cool. Ideal for summer vacations or beach parties. Comfort meets laid-back style.
Top: A lightweight cardigan tossed over a tank top.
Bottom: Swim trunks and flip-flops create a beach-ready outfit.
10. Edgy Street Style
Rock a black cardigan over a band tee and distressed jeans for a bold street look. Chunky boots add an edge while keeping the outfit grounded. This ensemble makes a statement without trying too hard. Perfect for concerts or urban adventures. Edgy fashion at its finest.
Top: A black cardigan layered over a band tee.
Bottom: Distressed jeans and chunky boots add an edge to this bold look.
11. Business Casual Cool
A fitted navy cardigan paired with a crisp white shirt and grey dress pants offers a polished appearance. Add brogues for a touch of sophistication. Ideal for office environments or client meetings where professionalism meets style. This look provides a refined yet approachable vibe. Confidence shines through effortlessly.
Top: A fitted navy cardigan paired with a crisp white shirt.
Bottom: Grey dress pants and brogues enhance this polished appearance.
12. Artistic Layering
Layer a vibrant cardigan over a patterned button-up and slim-fit trousers for a creative flair. Unique accessories like a colourful scarf elevate this artistic look. Perfect for gallery openings or creative meetings where self-expression thrives. This outfit showcases personality and style without sacrificing comfort. Artistic charm meets elegance.
Top: A vibrant cardigan layered over a patterned button-up.
Bottom: Slim-fit trousers and unique accessories showcase creativity.
13. Sophisticated Monochrome
A grey cardigan worn over a matching grey turtleneck and dark trousers creates a sleek monochromatic look. Black leather shoes add polish while maintaining simplicity. Ideal for formal occasions or sophisticated gatherings. This ensemble embodies refined taste without excess. Clean lines and subtle shades shine here.
Top: A grey cardigan worn over a matching grey turtleneck.
Bottom: Dark trousers and black leather shoes complete this sleek monochromatic look.
14. Cosy Coffee Shop Look
Pair a chunky knit cardigan with a thermal long-sleeve shirt and corduroy pants for ultimate comfort. Sneakers add a casual touch perfect for coffee dates or reading at your favourite café. This outfit allows for easy movement while keeping you warm. A laid-back style that feels effortlessly chic. Cosy yet stylish vibes radiate.
Top: A chunky knit cardigan paired with a thermal long-sleeve shirt.
Bottom: Corduroy pants and sneakers provide ultimate comfort for coffee dates.
15. Sporty Chic
A sporty cardigan layered over a fitted athletic tee and joggers blends comfort with style. Pair with stylish trainers for an active look that feels fresh. Ideal for running errands or casual outings. This outfit showcases an active lifestyle while remaining fashionable. Sporty elegance at its best.
Top: A sporty cardigan layered over a fitted athletic tee.
Bottom: Joggers and stylish trainers create an active yet fashionable look.
16. Rustic Layering
A soft brown cardigan over a plaid flannel shirt and dark jeans exudes rustic charm. Suede boots complete the ensemble, perfect for fall outings or cosy evenings. This look embodies warmth and approachability. Great for casual get-togethers or family gatherings. A stylish nod to countryside vibes.
Top: A soft brown cardigan over a plaid flannel shirt.
Bottom: Dark jeans and suede boots complete this cosy rustic outfit.
17. Modern Retro Look
Combine a retro-inspired cardigan with a turtleneck and straight-leg jeans for a modern twist. Ankle boots add sophistication while maintaining a stylish edge. Perfect for retro-themed parties or casual hangouts with friends. This outfit strikes a balance between vintage inspiration and contemporary style. Fun and chic in one.
Top: A retro-inspired cardigan layered over a turtleneck.
Bottom: Straight-leg jeans and ankle boots give a contemporary twist.
18. Casual Business Attire
A lightweight cardigan over a checked shirt and chinos presents a smart-casual appearance. Slip-on loafers elevate this outfit, making it perfect for casual Fridays. Ideal for meetings that require comfort without compromising professionalism. This look allows for easy movement while looking sharp. Casual yet put-together.
Top: A lightweight cardigan over a checked shirt.
Bottom: Chinos and slip-on loafers present a smart-casual appearance.
19. Layered Textures
Mix textures by pairing a chunky cardigan with a smooth button-up shirt and corduroy trousers. This ensemble adds depth and interest, perfect for fall gatherings. Leather boots enhance the rugged charm while maintaining elegance. Great for social events or cosy nights out. A stylish blend of warmth and style.
Top: A chunky cardigan layered over a smooth button-up shirt.
Bottom: Corduroy trousers and leather boots add depth and interest.
20. Cool Urban Explorer
Layer a zip-up cardigan over a fitted crewneck tee and cargo pants for a modern explorer vibe. Hiking shoes add practicality while keeping style intact. Perfect for weekend adventures or city explorations. This outfit showcases functionality without sacrificing aesthetics. Stylish comfort for the urban adventurer.
Top: A zip-up cardigan over a fitted crewneck tee.
Bottom: Cargo pants and trail-ready sneakers complete the modern explorer vibe.
21. Dapper Layering
A tailored cardigan over a checked blazer and trousers exudes dapper sophistication. Ideal for formal occasions or business meetings where style matters. Brogues complete this polished ensemble, making a statement. This look combines classic elements with modern flair. Perfect for those who appreciate refined fashion.
Top: A tailored cardigan over a checked blazer.
Bottom: Trousers and dress shoes provide a polished, dapper look.
22. Relaxed Weekend Brunch
Pair a lightweight cardigan with a simple tee and chinos for effortless weekend brunch style. Comfortable loafers complete the relaxed vibe. This outfit works well for lazy Sunday mornings or casual gatherings. Showcases a laid-back attitude while keeping fashion in mind. Effortlessly chic and cosy.
Top: A lightweight cardigan over a simple tee.
Bottom: Chinos and comfortable loafers create an effortlessly chic brunch outfit.
23. Smart Casual Jacket
A smartly tailored cardigan layered over a dress shirt with a pocket square offers an elevated touch. Combine with dark denim and dress shoes for a polished appearance. Perfect for events where you want to impress while remaining comfortable. This outfit highlights attention to detail and classic style. sophisticated charm shines through.
Top: A fitted cardigan over a silk shirt.
Bottom: Tailored trousers and stylish dress shoes enhance this elegant evening look.
24. Sporty Athleisure
A sporty cardigan paired with joggers and a fitted tank top captures athleisure chic effortlessly. Sneakers enhance the sporty vibe while providing comfort. Ideal for casual outings or light workouts, this look embraces movement. Fashion meets functionality seamlessly in this outfit. Trendy and practical for modern lifestyles.
Top: A sporty cardigan paired with joggers.
Bottom: Fitted tank top and stylish trainers capture athleisure chic.
25. Modern Nomad Look
Layer a lightweight cardigan over a chambray shirt and relaxed-fit cargo pants for a stylish nomadic feel. Stylish boots complete this adventurous ensemble. Perfect for travels or casual outings where comfort is key. This outfit embodies effortless style while ensuring mobility. Fashion for those who wander.
Top: A lightweight cardigan over a chambray shirt.
Bottom: Relaxed-fit cargo pants and stylish boots create a fashionable nomadic feel.
26. Earthy Tones Ensemble
Pair an olive cardigan with a white tee and brown trousers for a fresh take on earthy tones. This look works for both casual and semi-formal settings. Ankle boots add a touch of rugged elegance. Ideal for outdoor gatherings or day trips. Nature-inspired colours keep things grounded.
Top: An olive cardigan worn over a white tee.
Bottom: Brown trousers complete this fresh take on earthy tones.
27. Smart Weekend Getaway
A fitted cardigan over a henley and tailored shorts offers style for weekend getaways. Stylish sandals enhance the summer vibe. Perfect for beach resorts or casual retreats, this outfit maintains comfort and style. Easy to pack yet chic, it fits every man’s travel needs. Casual sophistication at its finest.
Top: A fitted cardigan over a henley.
Bottom: Tailored shorts and stylish sandals provide a chic getaway outfit.
28. Winter Wonderland
Layer a chunky knit cardigan over a thick scarf and turtleneck, paired with warm trousers. This ensemble offers both style and warmth for winter outings. Stylish boots keep feet cosy while providing a fashionable touch. Ideal for holiday gatherings or winter markets. Embrace the chill with elegance.
Top: A chunky knit cardigan layered over a thick scarf.
Bottom: Warm trousers and stylish boots offer both comfort and style for winter outings.
29. Weekend Hike Look
A lightweight cardigan over a moisture-wicking tee and rugged shorts embrace practicality for outdoor adventures. Trail-ready sneakers complete the look, making it ideal for hiking or camping trips. This outfit prioritises functionality while looking great. Comfort and style coexist beautifully here. Outdoor fashion for the adventurous spirit.
Top: A lightweight cardigan over a moisture-wicking tee.
Bottom: Rugged shorts and trail-ready sneakers make this outfit ideal for hiking.
30. Retro Cool
A retro cardigan layered over a vintage band tee and slim-fit jeans exudes laid-back cool. Converse sneakers add to the nostalgic vibe, perfect for concerts or casual outings. This ensemble highlights personality while remaining stylish. Ideal for expressing individuality without sacrificing comfort. Fun and effortlessly cool.
Top: A retro cardigan layered over a vintage band tee.
Bottom: Slim-fit jeans and Converse sneakers bring laid-back cool.
31. Polished Business Casual
A dark cardigan over a light dress shirt and tailored trousers presents a polished business casual look. Slip-on shoes enhance sophistication while maintaining ease. Perfect for workplace environments that allow for a relaxed dress code. This outfit balances professionalism and comfort effortlessly. Smart and refined in every detail.
Top: A dark cardigan over a light dress shirt.
Bottom: Tailored trousers and slip-on shoes present a refined business casual look.
32. Bohemian Flair
A flowing cardigan draped over a patterned shirt and loose-fit trousers creates an artsy bohemian vibe. Comfortable sandals add to this free-spirited look, perfect for summer festivals or outdoor markets. This outfit expresses creativity while remaining comfortable. Style reflects personality through unique combinations. A playful approach to fashion.
Top: A flowing cardigan over a patterned shirt.
Bottom: Loose-fit trousers and comfortable sandals create an artsy bohemian vibe.
33. Contemporary Chic
A fitted cardigan layered over an asymmetrical shirt and tailored pants showcases contemporary style. Brogue shoes elevate this outfit, perfect for modern gatherings or art openings. This look prioritises sharp lines and unique combinations. Great for those who appreciate avant-garde fashion. Chic sophistication radiates throughout.
Top: A fitted cardigan layered over an asymmetrical shirt.
Bottom: Tailored pants and brogue shoes showcase contemporary style.
34. Travel-Friendly Comfort
A cosy cardigan worn over a lightweight tee and joggers provides ultimate travel comfort. Slip-on shoes keep things easy for airport transitions. Ideal for long flights or road trips where comfort reigns supreme. This outfit embodies practical style without sacrificing aesthetics. Effortless travel fashion at its best.
Top: A cosy cardigan over a lightweight tee.
Bottom: Joggers and slip-on shoes offer ultimate comfort for travel.
35. Easygoing Family Outing
Layer a soft cardigan over a casual plaid shirt and chinos for a family-friendly outing. Comfortable sneakers complete the look, perfect for picnics or outings. This ensemble allows for movement while maintaining a stylish appearance. Great for spending quality time without compromising on fashion. Casual family vibes at their finest.
Top: A soft cardigan over a casual plaid shirt.
Bottom: Chinos and comfortable sneakers complete this family-friendly outfit.
36. Elegant Night Out
A fitted cardigan over a silk shirt and tailored trousers brings a touch of elegance for nighttime events. Stylish dress shoes complete this sophisticated ensemble. Perfect for cocktail parties or upscale dining, it commands attention. This look combines refinement and charm effortlessly. Dress to impress while feeling comfortable.
Top: A fitted cardigan layered over a silk shirt.
Bottom: Tailored trousers and stylish dress shoes create a sophisticated evening look.
37. Classic Heritage Style
Pair a heritage-inspired cardigan with a tweed jacket and chinos for timeless elegance. Leather boots add sophistication while keeping things classic. Ideal for fall gatherings or countryside outings, this outfit pays homage to tradition. This look expresses refined taste without feeling outdated. Heritage fashion never goes out of style.
Top: A heritage-inspired cardigan with a tweed jacket.
Bottom: Chinos and leather boots add timeless elegance.
38. Casual Rooftop Gathering
Layer a lightweight cardigan over a crisp shirt and slim-fit jeans for a stylish rooftop gathering. Suede loafers elevate the outfit while maintaining comfort. Perfect for evening events under the stars, this ensemble radiates charm. Effortlessly chic with a hint of sophistication. Great for socialising in style.
Top: A lightweight cardigan over a crisp shirt.
Bottom: Slim-fit jeans and suede loafers create a stylish rooftop gathering look.
39. Relaxed Fit Ensemble
A relaxed cardigan worn over a soft hoodie and joggers offers ultimate comfort. Stylish trainers complete this laid-back look, perfect for lounging at home or running errands. This outfit prioritises comfort without sacrificing a stylish appearance. Ideal for cosy days or casual outings. Fashionable and effortless.
Top: A relaxed cardigan worn over a soft hoodie.
Bottom: Joggers and stylish trainers provide ultimate comfort.
40. Effortless Style Statement
A long cardigan layered over a simple tee and tailored trousers creates an effortless statement. Ankle boots add polish, making it suitable for various occasions. Perfect for day-to-night transitions, this outfit embodies versatility. A style that resonates with confidence and charm. Ideal for men who appreciate simple elegance.
Top: A long cardigan layered over a simple tee.
Bottom: Tailored trousers and ankle boots make a stylish statement.