The Obtainer - 1/28/26, Wednesday

Valet.
The Obtainer

Wednesday,
January 28th Edition

Cory Ohlendorf

If you’ve avoided cardigans in the past, this is the version to try. Cleaner, sharper and built for everyday layering.

- Cory Ohlendorf, Editor in Chief ⋯ @coryohlendorf

 

Good/Better/Best

Crewneck Cardigans

The humble cardigan has been quietly leveling up. While the standard button-down sweater still has its place, a new wave of crewneck cardigans are doing more interesting work—cleaner lines, sharper proportions, and full plackets that run all the way to the collar. The result feels intentional and modern, with none of the fusty baggage that classic cardigans sometimes carry.

It's a little bit classic European with the edge of streetwear. These styles sit comfortably between polished and relaxed, working just as well over a tee as they do layered under a coat with proper trousers. We looked at several options to find three standouts at different price points, so whether you’re investing or just testing the waters, there’s one worth your money. Here are the best crewneck cardigans to buy right now.

 
Good 

The Starter Style

+ Knit from a textured poly/cotton blend

+ The yarn is filled with cotton batting for a surprisingly lightweight feel

+ Features a slightly shorter length, relaxed width and rounded silhouette with moderately curved sleeves

+ Available in three colorways

$39.90 by GU

 
 
Better 

Classic Wool

+ Knit from 100% merino wool, certified to the Responsible Wool Standard

+ Finished with vertical welt pockets and plaited ribs at the cuffs and waist

+ Tailored in a classic fit

+ Available in three colorways

$168 by Everlane

 
 
Best 

Light and Luxe

+ Made in Los Angeles from a custom non-twisted 100% cotton yarn developed in Japan

+ The cushy fabric has a fuzzy and exceedingly soft hand that calls to mind vintage sweaters

+ Cut in a boxy silhouette and finished with fabric-wrapped snap buttons and non-ribbed cuffs and waist

+ Available in three colorways

$300 by Lady White Co.

 
 
Smart Buys

The sales and discounts our team is currently watching.

 

Grab this sweater, from the ultra-cool label Ami, for Valentine’s Day. It’s French, embroidered with a heart and now it’s on sale.

$590 / $295
by Ami

 

The 501, with its classic straight-leg and iconic styling, are literally the blueprint for every pair of modern jeans in existence.

$79.50 / $40.97
by Levi’s

 

These handsome boots feature a lightweight Vibram 2060 wedge sole that delivers all-day comfort and reliable traction.

$268 / $187
by Rhodes

 

Want more?
See all 30 sales »

 
Worth a Read

The best stories from around the web.

 

The company says the tests are needed to ensure the performance and reliability of its components even at the lowest of temperatures.”

 

Mercedes-Benz Just Unveiled Its New Ultra-Exclusive Mythos

 

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Robb Report
 

It turns out that some of the best sources of style inspiration for regular guys are the not-so-regular men who make a living designing wild, high-fashion clothes.”

 

The Best Style Icons for Regular Guys? These High-Fashion Designers

 

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The Wall Street Journal
 

You can have a comfortable, high-rise fit that still looks sharp and modern—it just requires the right taper.”

 

Watch a Pro Designer Alter Pants Live

 

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Gentleman's Gazette