The main thing is the collar: what looks like the most fashionable cardigan this winter

The collar-stand, which has already become the main fashion detail of the outerwear of the autumn-winter season 2026/27, has now migrated to warm knitwear. The classic cardigan - with a V-neck, wide open, over his shirt - has not gone anywhere. But the designers offered him an interesting alternative - models with a high throat. At the shows of Prada, Chanel and Tom Ford were seen cardigans with small buttons, which fastened under the chin, forming a collar-stand. The idea was quickly picked up by the mass market, and the trend in the end is simultaneously present both in the expensive segment and in the affordable.

This style solves two tasks at once. The first is functional: a closed throat retains heat, and in the conditions of the Russian winter, this factor matters. The second is visual: the collar pulls out the silhouette, collects the image and adds structure to it.

Materials, textures and colour

The main requirement of the season is density: the cardigan must keep in shape, not hang. Therefore, the priority is wool, cashmere and mixed fabrics with a high content of natural yarn. Rubber, large braids and scars are the most popular variants of mating: they give both volume and clarity.

The color palette of winter 2027 is built around natural and restrained shades - cream, mocha, graphite, dark sage, muted bordeaux. Bright accents are found, but less often. If you want an acutely fashionable model, then look at purple and cobalt. Separately, it is worth noting the return of the noble gray - from light pearl to almost anthracite.

The collar-stand also changes the silhouette: slightly fixed models are relevant, which emphasize, rather than hide the figure, to the waist or slightly below.

How to wear: 6 working scenarios

The first and obvious option is with straight pants and jeans. It’s a classic that always works. Cardigan buttoned almost completely, the bottom - with a clear fit, without active decor. This kit reads as expensive minimalism and appropriate both in the office and in the city. The image can be supplemented with fashionable sharp-nosed boots on a glass heel or flat boots.

With a midi skirt. Soft knitwear paired with a tight skirt creates a contrast of textures - a favorite technique of stylists. It is better to choose smooth fabrics or a restrained print so that the collar remains the main accent.

Like an independent top. A cardigan with a high throat can be worn completely buttoned, without the bottom layer. The actual fit gently fits the figure, so the bottom is needed more free - for example, palazzo pants or A-silhouette skirt. But choose a tight viscous so that the cardigan does not look like a thin turtleneck.

In multi-layer kits. Under a coat with an open gate, over a thin shirt, under a voluminous jacket or jacket - the cardigan easily integrates into complex ensembles, adding complexity to them, but not overloading.

Instead of a jacket. Freer models of tight knitting can be worn wide open or buttoned on a single button over a silk dress-combination of midi length. On the feet - suede boots with a wide shin. The collar of the cardigan is left raised, and on the wrist add a massive bracelet.

With sports pants. The combination of “cozy” knitwear and relaxed bottom is one of the main stylistic techniques of the season. Complement the image with loafers or flat shoes, a bag-toat. Cardigan in this image is better not to button on all buttons. It'll be rustic and comfortable.

What to avoid

Thin, almost transparent knitwear. With a high throat, a tight viscous is better combined.

Large jewelry at the throat will argue with the collar - it is better to leave the neck free, and the emphasis should be on earrings or a bag.

You should also be careful with bulky scarves: they duplicate the function of a high throat.

In high-throat models, buttons play an important role. Large, contrasting or, conversely, in tone - they become part of the composition. It is better to give preference to small buttons in the color of the canvas - they visually "wash" the clasp, which will be a plus for a laconic image.

A cardigan with a high throat allows you to take a new look at the usual knitwear and bored combinations. This winter, he will easily move a turtleneck and a sweater in the closet. Wear it solo or in layered ensembles - the thing is practical and versatile. But the main trump card is different: it creates an expressive accent without a single bright detail. Such a cardigan does not require complex styling, so it is ideal for those who do not like to think over sets for a long time.