Mid-Century Collegiate Intarsia Whipstitch Cropped Cardigan

Origin: Austria

Vintage (mint condition)


Size: L

Color: Scarlet
Fabric: Knit
Composition: Cotton Blend

Measurements (cm)
Chest: 50
Length: 55
Shoulder: 44
Sleeve: 33

This short-sleeve cropped cardigan features a button-front closure and a contrasting stripe pattern along the hemline and sleeves, crafted in a rich burgundy red base with golden yellow accents that create a harmonious yet striking visual contrast. Balancing vintage-inspired aesthetics with a contemporary silhouette, the design evokes mid-century collegiate or varsity styles, with symmetrical, evenly spaced stripes reminiscent of traditional letterman sweater motifs. Likely made from a mid-weight yarn blend such as 100% cotton, wool, or a cotton-acrylic mix, the material ensures breathability, structure, and softness, with moderate elasticity inherent to the knit. The main body uses a durable stockinette stitch, offering a smooth surface and even texture, while contrasting whipstitch-like yellow edging provides both decorative appeal and seam reinforcement. The cropped, fitted shape accentuates the waistline, with short sleeves that make the piece versatile for layering or warm-weather wear. The body is knit flat and assembled with minimal seams for a clean finish, and the set-in sleeves are seamlessly integrated using short rows to ensure a contoured fit. The placket features a double-knit reinforcement for strength and shape retention, with hand-bound or machine-reinforced buttonholes for durability. The hemline and sleeves are finished with ribbed stitching to provide elasticity and maintain shape over time, while the medium-to-fine gauge (22–24 stitches per 10 cm) and precise tension ensure fabric density and structural integrity. The stripes are executed via intarsia knitting, allowing for smooth color transitions without bulk or puckering. The hand-finished or specialized overlock whipstitch edging enhances both aesthetics and edge reinforcement. Uniform tension and consistent stripe alignment reflect meticulous quality control, and each button is securely sewn with reinforced stitching for durability. Pre-dyed yarn ensures vibrant and even coloration of the red and yellow hues, while post-knitting treatments such as blocking refine the garment’s shape and drape. This cardigan exemplifies the interplay of vintage inspiration, technical precision, and modern craftsmanship, making it a functional and visually appealing wardrobe staple.

This cardigan aligns with the DNA of Gabriela Hearst, Thom Browne, Bode, and others by embodying a balance of heritage craftsmanship and contemporary design. Its whipstitch detailing, bold stripes, and cropped silhouette make it a versatile statement piece that bridges nostalgic collegiate style with modern fashion sensibilities. It stands out as both a nod to tradition and an innovative reinterpretation for today’s market. Gabriela Hearst, a designer synonymous with sustainable luxury and artisanal detail, emphasizes timeless silhouettes and rich textures. The cardigan’s cropped fit, whipstitch accents, and bold intarsia stripes reflect Hearst’s penchant for combining traditional craftsmanship with modern refinement. The structured yet casual design would resonate with her collections’ dedication to heritage knitting techniques and luxurious materials. Thom Browne is well known for reinterpreting collegiate and preppy styles with a playful yet meticulously tailored aesthetic. The cardigan’s contrasting stripes evoke the brand’s signature use of bold trims, while its cropped design aligns with Browne’s deconstruction of traditional menswear and sportswear motifs. The whipstitch detail adds an element of artisanal complexity, paralleling Browne’s ability to transform classic silhouettes into modern statements. Molly Goddard’s exuberant, texture-heavy creations often incorporate artisanal techniques, making her a natural comparison for this cardigan. While her focus is more on volume and tulle, the textured whipstitching and bold stripe details of this piece align with her emphasis on playful yet intricate craftsmanship. The rich scarlet tone mirrors the vibrant palette frequently seen in Goddard’s collections, giving the cardigan a sense of theatricality. Bode, a brand rooted in nostalgia and one-of-a-kind garments, creates pieces that celebrate heritage and meticulous handwork. This cardigan’s collegiate aesthetic and mid-century design sensibility resonate strongly with Bode’s storytelling approach. The whipstitch detail and stripe motif could easily fit within the brand’s oeuvre of meticulously crafted knitwear inspired by Americana and vintage traditions. Alanui, a brand specializing in luxurious knitwear, frequently utilizes intricate patterns and artisanal details to elevate casual staples. The cardigan’s cropped silhouette, paired with its whipstitch accents and bold intarsia stripes, reflects Alanui’s dedication to turning knitwear into wearable art. The careful attention to contrasting hues and textural finishes further aligns with Alanui’s DNA. Isabel Benenato, known for her avant-garde yet understated knitwear, often incorporates artisanal techniques to elevate traditional forms. The whipstitch detail and cropped design align with Benenato’s exploration of texture and proportion, while the bold collegiate stripes add a striking element of contrast that mirrors her focus on subtle visual drama. Misha & Puff is celebrated for its hand-knitted garments and vibrant color palettes, making it a strong comparison for this cardigan. The intarsia stripes, meticulous whipstitching, and focus on texture are hallmarks of Misha & Puff’s ethos of slow fashion and artisanal production. The cropped silhouette gives the cardigan a playful versatility that fits the brand’s whimsical aesthetic. Rowing Blazers, a brand rooted in preppy and collegiate-inspired clothing, offers a natural comparison. The cardigan’s stripe detail and bold color blocking align with Rowing Blazers’ emphasis on classic American sportswear motifs. The cropped length and whipstitch accents give it a contemporary twist, blending heritage and modernity in a way that mirrors the brand’s approach. Wales Bonner, known for her sophisticated fusion of sportswear, tailoring, and cultural references, often incorporates bold stripes and cropped silhouettes. The cardigan’s collegiate aesthetic aligns with Wales Bonner’s nuanced take on traditional uniforms and knitwear, while the whipstitch detail adds a layer of artisanal craftsmanship akin to her focus on textured embellishments. The technical specifications of this cardigan reveal a lightweight knit, likely composed of fine wool or a wool blend, offering warmth and a soft hand feel. The intarsia stripe detailing is executed with precision, creating clean lines that contrast effectively with the deep scarlet base. The whipstitch edging introduces a textural element, reinforcing the garment’s artisanal quality. The cropped fit, paired with the half-sleeves, enhances its versatility, making it suitable for layering in transitional seasons. The button-down front closure and tailored silhouette provide a balance of structure and ease. Artistically, the cardigan draws from mid-century collegiate traditions, with its bold stripes and cropped design reflecting a blend of retro athleticism and contemporary refinement. The whipstitch detailing introduces a homespun charm, emphasizing its handcrafted nature. Psychologically, the use of scarlet and contrasting stripes evokes confidence and energy, underscoring the piece’s bold yet approachable aesthetic. Historically, collegiate styles have played a significant role in shaping preppy fashion, making this cardigan a relevant nod to both vintage and modern interpretations.