The open front cardigan is one of those pieces that most men write off as too casual or too shapeless before they’ve ever tried a good one. That’s a mistake. Worn over a simple tee or a light oxford shirt, the right open front cardigan adds weight and intention to an outfit without the formality of a blazer or the bulk of a coat. It fills the gap between dressed and relaxed better than almost anything else. We’ve been focused specifically on versions that have structure through the shoulder, a length that works tucked over trousers as well as with denim, and yarns that drape rather than sag. Color matters too. The ones in here go beyond grey and oatmeal without tipping into territory you’ll regret by next season. These are cardigans that work harder than their price suggests and look better than most men expect. The open front format is doing more work than it gets credit for.