Boys Cardigan Sweaters
Chic Options for Back-to-School Shopping
While many would argue that the heyday of the cardigan sweater was the middle of the last century (1930s – 1960s), the versatility of the open-front knit sweater makes it one of the most enduring and timeless staples of the male wardrobe. That versatility comes from the wide range of styles you can choose from when selecting the right cardigan, including knits, patterns, closures (zipped or buttons), neck-line/hood and color.
The range of styles also make cardigan sweaters a practical must-have option for back-to-school and throughout much of the year. Because lighter cardigans can be worn as either a sweatshirt, vest or sweater, they allow boys to easily adjust to changes in the weather while remaining fashionably casual throughout the school day. With the availability of bold patterns and color combinations, lighter cardigans should be the anchor piece of any outfit, either underneath a heavier sweater or jacket or over a t-shirt, elevating his look and catching the eye of his classmates.
It’s no wonder then that we hear from back-to-school shoppers that the right light cardigan is an essential fashion piece for Fall Picture Day at school and beyond.
Heavier knit cardigans evoke a more classic urbane look, and offer the warmth of a jacket and the comfort of a well-worn sweater for the colder months. While typically worn as outerwear with either a mock neck or shawl collar, heavier cardigans can also be layered underneath a heavier coat or jacket for inclement weather. And although we certainly like monochrome sweaters in gray, brown or navy, modern heavy cardigans come in various patterns, colors and styles that can really make the overall outfit distinct.
We assembled several boy’s cardigan sweaters popular for back-to-school, classifying them as either light or heavy cardigans. You can also browse further and find a wider selection on Amazon or at Littleboychic.com , or click on the products below to purchase directly from the merchants.
Light cardigans for boys
The following styles from John Biaggio , Fore!! Axel & Hudson and Appaman illustrate the range of style characteristics available in boy’s cardigans. Among them includes: bold colors and patterns (e.g. stripes, chevrons), V-neck lines, sporty look, versatility for wear throughout much of the year (summer, fall and on).

Appaman V-Neck Cardigan (pictured above)
Heavy cardigans for boys
The following styles from Appaman , Petit Lem , Fore!! Axel & Hudson and Oshkosh B’gosh further illustrate the range of style characteristics available in heavy knit boy’s cardigans. The range of options include: button, toggle or zip closures, knit varieties like Fair Isle, monochrome or multi-color, mock-neck, shawl collar or hoodie.
Appaman Button Front Mock-Neck Cardigan

Petit Lem Toggle-Close Shawl-Collared Cardigan
Fore!! Fair Isle, Toggle-Close Shawl-Collared Cardigan

Oshkosh B’gosh Button-Close Shawl Collar Cardigan
Nautica Double Breasted Shawl Collar Cardigan
Wippette Zip Front Hood Cardigan
Each of the pieces above is capable of serving as the centerpiece of any ensemble for virtually any occasion. But being stylish may actually be secondary for him to the warmth and comfort a cardigan will offer during this back-to-school season.
