The shirt cardigan is the knitwear trend to wear across all seasons

Street style cardigan

Credit: Getty

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The shirt cardigan is the knitwear trend to wear across all seasons

By Harriet Davey

5 years ago

The shirt and cardigan hybrids are the knitwear style du jour – this is where to find them. 

While winter is amping up the chill, we tend to rely on oversized knits and cosy maxi coats for a sartorial hug. Although comfy clothes have been working hard for us even more lately, it spreads instant joy to think about fresh spring/summer 2021 trends. If you’re excited by looking ahead to fresh spring/summer trends, though, here are a few styles that you can wear already and this knitwear item is one of them.

Meet the shirt cardigan – a cross between a knitted cardigan and a button-down, collared shirt. Worn as a top, the knitted and usually form-fitting style makes it warm enough to wear on it’s own, while the thinner fabric will also work for warmer days in the future, too. 

So, how do you wear the shirt cardigan? Much like you would a shirt – wear over jeans, tuck it into a pair of high waisted trousers or style with a midi skirt. This is the versatile knitwear style you’ll be able to wear all year round depending on what you pair it with. 

From & Other Stories’ belted style, to the Wales Bonner colour block iteration, we’ve found the best shirt cardigans you’ll want to add to your knitwear edits. 

Shop best shirt cardigans

& Other Stories cardigan

& Other stories shirt cardigan

This neutral knit is a sure-fire winner. Wear on its own as a shirt by keeping it buttoned up to the top and adding straight leg jeans and brogues. 

Shop oversized belted cardigan at & Other Stories, £85

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Cos cardigan

Cos shirt cardigan

For the in-between weather as we get closer to spring, the knit top is the transitional item to add to your wardrobe. Imagine this creamy beauty with light wash jeans and chunky sandals. 

Shop transparent knitted top at Cos, £59

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Lisa Yang cardigan

Lisa Yang shirt cardigan

Stockholm-based brand Lisa Yang is a go-to for timeless, classic pieces and this cashmere cardigan is a keeper. Wear it done up as a shirt or leave undone over a vest top as a maxi cardigan. 

Shop Lisa Yang Lydia point-collar ribbed-cashmere cardigan at Matches, £390

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Cos cardigan

Cos shirt cardigan

The simple, form-fitting style is made to be tucked into trousers and skirts. Imagine this in the summer with a pair of linen shorts and lace-up sandals. 

Shop transparent knitted top at Cos, £59

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Mango cardigan

Mango shirt cardigan

In an oversized fit, this slouchy cardigan is perfect for a tonal outfit. Try it out with cream trousers, beige heeled boots and a glossy brown bag. 

Shop button knit cardigan at Mango, £59.99

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Song of Style cardigan

Song of Style shirt cardigan

The pearl buttons on this fitted cardigan/shirt is exactly the kind of detail we need to make knitwear more interesting. Try it out with a printed mini skirt come summer.

Shop Song of Style sweater at Revolve, £127

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Wales Bonner cardigan

Wales Bonner shirt cardigan

Block-coloured cardigans are also a mini trend so you get a two-for-one buy with this Wales Bonner style. You’ll also be able to wear it undone as a jacket if you grab it in a size up. 

Shop Wales Bonner Goto cardigan at Net-a-Porter, £425

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4th & Reckless cardigan

4th and Reckless shirt cardigan

Cosy knitted co-ords are part of everyday uniforms lately. Get the look by snapping up the matching knit trousers to this cardigan shirt. 

Shop 4th & Reckless knitted button detail shirt at Asos, £28

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Maje cardigan

Maje shirt cardigan

Rhinestone buttons have been adding a hint of sparkle to knitwear this year, now it’s time for glitzy pockets and collars. Wear this style with jeans and kicks. 

Shop Maje Memise rhinestone-trimmed cardigan at Selfridges, £220.50

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Opening image: Getty

Images: courtesy of brands

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