The History of the Shawl Collar Cardigan

Consistently ranked as our number one bestselling piece, and easily the most timeless in the collection, the shawl collar cardigan has earned its place as a true wardrobe essential. The kind of garment that feels just as right thrown on at home as it does layered over a shirt for a more put together look. Few garments manage to strike that balance between comfort and sophistication as effortlessly as the shawl collar cardigan. With its softly rolled collar and open V-neck, it is neither fully formal nor entirely casual, which is exactly what gives it such versatility. Over time, it has moved gracefully between workwear, leisurewear and everyday wardrobes, building a lasting reputation for comfort, practicality and elegance.

Its roots trace back to the 19th century Victorian knitwear, long before it became a staple of modern wardrobes. In coastal and rural communities, particularly among sailors, fishermen and those living in Scotland and Ireland, knitted garments were a necessity, not a luxury. These early versions were made from heavy wool, built for warmth and durability, with simple construction that prioritised practicality. The now signature rolled collar began as a functional detail, designed to shield the neck from the wind and cold.

The term 'cardigan' itself dates back to James Brudenell, the 7th Earl of Cardigan, a British military officer during the Crimean War. While the garments of that time were far more utilitarian, the name became associated with open front knitted layers designed for warmth and comfort. At this stage, knitwear was firmly rooted in workwear, often handmade or produced on a small scale, valued for their reliability and worn for purpose above all else.

James Brudenell, 7th Earl of Cardigan

By the early 20th century, the shawl collar cardigan had begun to evolve. Between the 1920s and 1940s, it found its place within sportswear - appearing on cricket fields, tennis courts, and golf courses, as well as across Ivy League campuses. The design became more structured and considered; thicker yarns, ribbed trims, cable knits, button closures and patch pockets introduced a more refined, collegiate character. It retained its practicality, but with a clearer sense of style.

In the 1950s and 60s, the shawl collar cardigan had fully entered the cultural spotlight and achieved its iconic status, helped in no small part by Hollywood. It was worn by figures such as Steve McQueen and Grace Kelly, that brought an effortless elegance to the garment. After the Second World War, many Americans returned home with an appreciation for European knitwear, further cementing its place in everyday style. The cardigan came to represent a kind of understated confidence - less rigid than tailoring, but no less considered. It also became increasingly gender-neutral, worn across both menswear and womenswear, reinforcing its versatility.

From the 1970s through to the 1990s, the shawl collar cardigan continued to evolve, moving through different subcultures and styles, from preppy to more casual, expressive styles. This adaptability is part of what has kept it relevant as it never stayed confined to one identity, instead absorbing the mood of each era while holding onto its core design.

Today, the shawl collar cardigan remains a cornerstone of modern wardrobes. Whether worn with tailoring, layered over shirts, or simply at home, it offers a level of ease that feels appropriate across all settings. What defines the shawl collar cardigan is not trend, but permanence. It has evolved over time, but always with purpose. For a wardrobe built on longevity and quality, it remains one of the most dependable pieces you can own.

Available in eight colours, you can find the Colhay's Superfine Lambswool Shawl Collar Cardigan best suited for you now!