How to Master Men's Transitional Dressing

There’s something satisfying about a piece that can be styled wherever the day takes you. As chillier days approach, the cardigan steps up as one of those hardworking wardrobe staples, adding an extra layer of warmth while taking on a different look depending on the occasion.

From business meetings to after-dark plans, style influencer Nick Howard-Lanes (@nickhowardlanes) shows us four ways to make the most of this autumn essential.

Who says a cardigan can’t look the part in the office? For a polished take, layer yours over a crisp shirt and tie, then add tailored trousers and smart shoes. It’s a simple way to bring the comfort of a cardigan into a more considered workwear look.

Take your cues from Nick and keep the proportions clean and considered. It’s an easy formula to keep in your back pocket when the dress code calls for something sharper.

For laid-back autumn plans, keep your cardigan relaxed and easy. Layer it with a patterned shirt, then add classic blue jeans and sturdy boots for a look that feels right at home in any social setting. It’s a simple combination that balances comfort with a little personality, perfect for a leisurely lunch with friends or a country walk.

Nick's top tip? Leave the cardigan open rather than buttoning it up, letting the pattern peek through for added interest.

And just when you thought there's no other way to style the humble cardigan, it proves otherwise. Take it from desk to dinner date with rich brown trousers and a pair of loafers. The warmer colour palette is an easy alternative to black – which can sometimes feel a little too harsh – and lends a softer feel to your evening look.

The trick is to leave a couple of buttons undone to keep the look relaxed rather than overly polished. It’s all about getting that smart-but-not-too-serious balance.

When the plan is to do very little, Nick likes to keep things comfy with grey joggers. Choose a pair with a straight, uncuffed leg for a more considered feel, then add your cardigan on top and you’ve got the perfect uniform for slow days.

He takes the tonal approach one step further, tying a matching grey jumper around his waist for an extra layer. Instead of pulling pieces at random and throwing them together (no judgement, we've all been there), this is an easy way to look more intentional with your styling.