A shawl collar cardigan has a wide, rolled collar that runs in one piece from the neck to the hem, framing the face and closing like a wrap, and it is one of the most flattering cardigan shapes there is. The Alanui Icon is built on it, and this edit gathers the best shawl collar knitwear at Coveti, mostly from Alanui.
Key facts
- A shawl collar runs from neck to hem in one rolled piece
- The long V lengthens the neck and torso
- Belted, it becomes a wrap coat
- Take your usual size; most are cut roomy
Why the shawl collar works
The collar creates a long V that lengthens the neck and torso, and it sits flat against the chest so you can layer a coat over it. Belted, it becomes a wrap coat. Open, it frames a T-shirt neatly. It also keeps the neck warm without a scarf.
The edit
1. Icon Jacquard Cardigan in Canvas and Coffee
The Icon jacquard, with the deepest shawl collar in the collection, in pure cashmere.
2. Sweet Winter Cardigan in Chalk and Midnight Blue
A navy and chalk winter jacquard with a shawl collar and tie belt.
3. Finest Cardigan in White
Plain white cashmere and silk, for the cleanest version of the shape.
4. The Amazing Journey Cardigan in Night Blue and Tabacco
The Amazing Journey, in night blue and tobacco with calf leather fringe at the back.
5. Icon Jacquard Coat in Charcoal and Russet Red
A shawl collar coat in charcoal and russet jacquard for real cold.
Length, yarn and fit
A hip-length shawl collar suits high-waisted trousers; a mid-thigh one, like the Icon, works as outerwear. Cashmere is the softest and lightest for its warmth; virgin wool holds the collar's roll more crisply. Most luxury shawl collar cardigans are cut roomy, so take your usual size. Alanui sizes its knitwear in letters: XS is a UK 6, S a UK 8, M a UK 10, L a UK 12 and XL a UK 14. The Icon cardigan is oversized by design, so take your usual size. Full conversions are in our Alanui size guide.
How to wear it
Belt it over a slip dress for dinner, wear it open over a fine roll neck and wide-leg trousers for work, and use it as a coat over jeans on mild days.
Frequently asked questions
What is a shawl collar cardigan?
A cardigan with a wide, rolled collar that runs from the neck to the hem in one piece, closing like a wrap.
Are shawl collar cardigans flattering?
Yes. The long V of the collar lengthens the neck and torso, and a belt adds a waist.
What is the best luxury shawl collar cardigan?
The Alanui Icon cardigan is the best known, made in Italy in cashmere and wool with a fringed edge and tie belt.
How should a shawl collar cardigan fit?
It should wrap comfortably with room for a layer underneath. Most are cut roomy, so take your usual size.
Read next: Oversized cardigans, The Alanui cardigan guide, Cashmere cardigans.
By Gemma Deeks, Coveti Fashion Editor. Updated 20 October 2026.
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