Vintage Stripe Knit Cardigan

Radiance, Composed.

Introducing The Structured Radiance Cardigan from Empty Reference—a garment that engineers warmth and optimism into a precise, wearable form. This piece reimagines the classic knit cardigan as an exercise in intentional contrast and tailored comfort. It is knitted from a substantial 60% cotton and 40% acrylic blend, a balance that offers the soft, breathable feel of natural fiber with the resilient shape and warmth retention of its synthetic counterpart.

The dialogue is established in the very weave: pronounced vertical ribs alternate between a vibrant golden yellow and a definitive black. This creates a dynamic, optical texture that is both visually striking and deeply tactile. The silhouette is deliberately fitted, contouring to the body to provide warmth without bulk. The wide, turned-back shawl collar is dominated by black, framing the face with sophisticated contrast. Golden ribbed trim at the cuffs and hem provides a cohesive finish, while a set of unique, patterned buttons—not mere fasteners, but miniature ornaments—complete the narrative.

This cardigan is for the wearer who understands that ease need not be formless, and that vibrancy is most powerful when given structure.

☀️ The Blueprint of Composed Warmth:

✔ The Ribbed Contrast Weave: The bold alternation of gold and black yarns is the foundational statement. It creates a sense of dynamic energy and graphic depth, transforming a basic knit into a textural event.
✔ Tailored, Fitted Silhouette: Moving away from the oversized, this cardigan is designed to fit close to the body. It layers seamlessly under coats or stands alone as a polished top, defining the silhouette with clean, intentional lines.
✔ Ornamental Button Details: The patterned buttons are a signature Empty Reference touch. They are the "guarded whimsy"—small, discoverable details that elevate the garment from simple utility to considered design.
✔ 60/40 Cotton-Acrylic Blend: This specific ratio ensures the perfect marriage of comfort and performance. The cotton provides softness and breathability for all-day wear, while the acrylic adds durability, color vibrancy, and helps the cardigan maintain its structured shape.

🏗️ Anatomy of a Woven Dialogue:

• Color as Energy Management: Gold (optimism, energy, light) is not let loose but is given rhythm and gravity by Black (structure, night, definition). Together, they represent a balanced, wearable vitality—warmth with a backbone.

• The Fit as Intention: The fitted cut signals a departure from loungewear associations. This is a knit meant for engagement with the world, offering both comfort and a defined, confident shape.

• The Details as Quiet Citations: The patterned buttons and the contrast trim are citations of a thoughtful design process. They reward closer inspection and embody the brand's ethos of embedding narrative in detail.

🧥 Styling the Defined Layer:

This cardigan is a versatile piece that functions as both a standalone top and a perfect mid-layer.

• As a Standalone Statement: Buttoned fully and worn with high-waisted, wide-leg black trousers or a sleek black midi skirt. The fitted shape and graphic pattern create a complete, polished look.

• For Layered Sophistication: Worn open over a simple black turtleneck or a crisp white button-down shirt, paired with tailored jeans or trousers.

• For Casual Contrast: Paired with light-wash denim and a white t-shirt, allowing the boldness of the cardigan to elevate a simple weekend uniform.

• Its Natural Habitat: Creative workplaces, autumn weekends, evening gatherings, travel—any context that calls for a blend of intelligent warmth and distinctive style.

Model 1: 186cm / 65kg, wears size XL.
Model 2: 172cm / 45kg, wears size M.
Manual measurement may vary by 1–2cm.