In an age of Covid-19-induced indoorsiness, it’s fair to say that the humble cardigan has made a definitive comeback. An essential investment as we look to warmer months, the thought of swapping out our winter wardrobe for some contemporary knitwear has left us itching like mohair on a summer's day. 

Like many garments, the history of the cardigan is mostly a functional one. Named after James Brudenell, 7th Earl of Cardigan, the open buttoned sweater was first modelled after knitted wool waistcoats that British officers supposedly wore during the Crimean War. Reinterpreted across the 20th century — and endorsed by the likes of Tyler the Creator, Yung Thug and Pharrell Williams — the modern cardigan is now a wardrobe staple, landing itself in an ambiguous, ungendered space between nomecore prep and blazer alternative. 

With brands such as Gucci, Marni and Hermès continuously sending plush fabrics down the runway, there’s a lot to choose from. Take a look at some of our favourite cardigan looks below: