The crewneck cardigan experiences a resurgence in popularity thanks to influencers and evolving style sensibilities, appealing to a diverse audience.
Last fall, Sunny Bali, a New York-based fashion influencer, sparked a renewed interest in crewneck cardigans after posting a video on TikTok that highlighted this particular style. Bali, who shares men’s style advice from a female perspective with her 73,000 followers, noted the surprising amount of attention her commentary received. “I don’t think I have ever had so many comments and DMs asking where to get an article of clothing,” she said, observing a genuine curiosity about this seemingly ‘new’ fashion staple.
Around the same time, fellow New York-based influencer Paris Booker began to notice the growing presence of crewneck cardigans worn by other creators and featured in lookbooks from streetwear-adjacent brands such as Noah. “After I saw it styled a few times, I decided to challenge myself,” Booker explained, sharing that he purchased one from Octobre Éditions, a brother label of the French brand Sézane. A self-proclaimed cardigan enthusiast, Booker appreciates items that allow for layered styling and viewed the crewneck cardigan as an ideal addition to his wardrobe.
The surge in popularity of crewneck cardigans has caught the attention of fashion aficionados over the past few months, as both men and women adopt the garment. Unlike many menswear trends that evolve gradually, this specific style emerged quickly and prominently, with brands ranging from Auralee to ASOS capitalizing on the trend.
“The crewneck cardigan feels slightly more elevated than the V-cut,” Booker remarked, emphasizing that it represents a bold choice, particularly for younger men interested in fashion. The versatility of the crewneck cardigan is one of its strong appeals, as it can be worn in various styles—paired with both casual T-shirts and jeans or dressed up with a button-up shirt, tie, and loafers.
The roots of the crewneck cardigan trend can arguably be traced back to Miuccia Prada, who showcased the style during the Miu Miu fall 2023 show. The presentation included models dressed in structured crewneck sweaters under matching crewneck cardigans, providing a modern twist on the traditional 1950s secretary look while simultaneously critiquing mid-century office attire. This fresh perspective helped to reinvigorate the classic garment.
Compounding the resurgence of the crewneck cardigan was the popularity of the Agnès b. snap cardigan—an enduring item within the genre—previously embraced by the Dimes Square crowd. In a 2020 article, Emilia Petrarca characterized the brand’s flagship product as “a uniquely French combination of bohemian ease and bourgeois austerity, a Chanel jacket meets a Champion hoodie meets a baby onesie,” underlining its aesthetic appeal.
The rapid acceptance of crewneck cardigans in menswear, particularly among those who are increasingly indifferent towards gendered clothing, is noteworthy. As male figures in fashion, such as actor Paul Mescal, embrace this silhouette, it reflects an evolving landscape where contemporary influences shape traditional wardrobes. The blending of these influences continues to capture the interest of both fashion insiders and everyday consumers alike.
Source: Noah Wire Services
