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The grandpa cardigan — slouchy, ribbed, roomy, worn over something fitted — is the cosy trend that stuck. Here are 10 to buy, each linked to a well-reviewed option.
My top pick: A slouchy, ribbed grandpa cardigan in oatmeal or grey, worn over a fitted top and slim jeans, is the whole look — and it layers under a coat all winter.
1. Ribbed Oatmeal Grandpa Cardigan
The classic — a soft ribbed knit, dropped shoulders, mid-thigh length, in a warm neutral. Over a fitted tee or tank with slim jeans, sleeves pushed up. Shop grandpa cardigan women on Amazon →
2. Chunky Cable Grandpa Cardigan
The same slouchy shape with cable texture and a bit more weight — reads more “fisherman.” Cream or navy. Shop chunky cable cardigan women on Amazon →
3. V-Neck Button-Front Cardigan
A deep V and a full row of buttons — wear it buttoned as a top or open as a layer. The most versatile grandpa shape. Shop v neck button cardigan women on Amazon →
4. Pocket Cardigan
Big patch pockets at the hip — practical and part of the charm. Look for pockets sewn on securely, not just for show. Shop pocket cardigan women on Amazon →
5. Shawl-Collar Grandpa Cardigan
A wide folded collar adds a cabin, professor feel and frames the face. Heavy wool. Great over a turtleneck. Shop shawl collar cardigan men on Amazon →
6. Elbow-Patch Cardigan
Suede or leather elbow patches lean into the “borrowed from grandpa’s wardrobe” look. Keep the rest of the outfit modern so it’s knowing, not costume. Shop elbow patch cardigan women on Amazon →
7. Oversized Boyfriend Cardigan
A genuinely large, longline cardigan worn almost as a robe over leggings and a fitted top — maximum cosy. Belt it if it needs shape. Shop oversized boyfriend cardigan women on Amazon →
8. Marl / Heathered Knit Cardigan
A flecked, two-tone yarn gives the plain shape depth without pattern. Grey marl is the easiest. Shop marl knit cardigan women on Amazon →
9. Recycled-Wool Grandpa Cardigan
A heavy wool or recycled-wool version at a mid price. Check reviews for pilling and shape retention after washing. Shop wool grandpa cardigan women on Amazon →
10. Men’s Grandpa Cardigan
The original — a chunky button-front cardigan over a tee or an oxford shirt with cords or jeans. Works exactly the same on men, obviously. Shop mens grandpa cardigan on Amazon →
The bottom line
A ribbed grandpa cardigan in oatmeal or grey, over something fitted with slim jeans, is the whole look. Add a cable or shawl-collar version for weight, and it layers under a coat all winter.