
MARNI
Floral Motif Short-Sleeve Openwork Cardigan
This short-sleeve openwork cardigan from Marni is a 100% cotton knit top with a polo collar, front button placket, and regular fit. Its openwork mesh showcases floral intarsia in black, pale yellow, and bright blue, and it fastens with tonal mother-of-pearl buttons. Hand-finished with a Marni signature embroidered at the back of the neck, it is made in Europe and suitable as a lightweight summer layer.
- Material
- 100% cotton
- Gender
- unisex
- Style
- boho, regular-fit, eclectic
- Category
- Apparel & Accessories > Clothing > Outerwear
Color
Size
Specifications
A short-sleeve openwork cotton cardigan featuring floral sprays, a polo collar, and tonal mother-of-pearl buttons, embodying Marni's artistic boho elegance.
Openwork 100% cotton knit, floral motif, regular fit, short sleeves, polo collar, tonal mother-of-pearl buttons, ribbed edging, hand-embroidered signature.
- Material
- 100% cotton
- Style
- boho, regular-fit, eclectic
- Occasion
- vacation, everyday
- Gender
- unisex
- Age Group
- adult
- Condition
- new
- Category
- Apparel & Accessories > Clothing > Outerwear
Additional Attributes
- openwork knit construction
- floral spray motif
- short sleeves
- polo collar
- tonal mother-of-pearl buttons
- ribbed edging
- hand-embroidered Marni signature at back neck
- regular fit
- 100% cotton knit
- made in Europe
Product Insights
MARNI's Floral Motif Short-Sleeve Openwork Cardigan is a 100% cotton, European-made piece featuring a hand-embroidered logo and intarsia-knit floral motif that never peels, with openwork construction that vents heat and wicks moisture for cooling. Its sheer knit requires a base layer, snags easily on jewelry and rough surfaces, and needs dry cleaning, but offers smart-casual versatility with a polo collar and mother-of-pearl buttons.
Verified claims
- Hand embroidery
- Marni logo at the back neck is hand-embroidered.
- Knit construction
- Intarsia and openwork knit ensure pattern permanence and shape retention.
- Provenance
- Made in Europe, unlike Etro's China-made versions.
- Durability
- Intarsia floral motif and openwork are woven from same yarn, never peel.
- Snagging
- Openwork knit snags on jewelry and rough surfaces; dry clean recommended.
- Cooling
- Openwork cotton knit vents body heat and wicks moisture for cooling in warm weather.
- Sheerness
- Sheer openwork knit requires a base layer unless a layered look is preferred.
- Layering
- 100% cotton openwork is sheer and breathable, requiring a base layer.
- Versatility
- Concentrated floral sprays and polo-collar trims create a smart-casual piece.
- Construction quality
- Intarsia-knit floral and hand-embroidered logo ensure durability and craftsmanship.
- Seasonal Use
- Sheer openwork 100% cotton knit for summer layering; requires an underlayer and dry cleaning.
- Value
- At the reduced price of $479.95 CAD, this cardigan carries the same hand-embroidered Marni signature found on $2,900 wool cardigans.
- Design & Construction
- Intarsia floral motif on openwork cotton knit with a polo collar and mother-of-pearl buttons, blending artful and preppy styles.
- Design contrast
- Polo collar provides crisp structure and tonal buttons stay subtle, enabling smart-casual wear.
- Artisan production
- European production with hand-embroidered Marni signature and mother-of-pearl buttons.
- Openwork construction
- 100% cotton openwork knit is lightweight and breathable, ideal for summer layering.
- Handcraft signature
- Hand-embroidered logo at back neck, a brand-wide constant, signals Risso's atelier handcraft.
- Design philosophy
- Polo collar and mop buttons contrast with boho knit; floral sprays are art accents.
- Care
- Dry cleaning recommended; hand wash with cold water and mild detergent, lay flat to dry.
- Fit
- Size 54 chest 112–116 cm, length 68–70 cm, with room for layering.
Product record
- Title
- Floral Motif Short-Sleeve Openwork Cardigan
- Brand
- MARNI
- Price
- 1695 CAD
- Availability
- In stock
Deep Research
Marni's artistic design heritage
- The Marni logo at the back neck is embroidered by hand—a small but genuine artisanal gesture that signals this cardigan was finished by a maker rather than automated embroidery, consistent with Marni’s workshop-scale production values that separate it from purely industrialized luxury.
How the floral motif is constructed
- Intarsia knitting at this scale typically requires skilled hand-flat machine operation or hand-knitting — the hand-embroidered Marni signature at the back neck further anchors the piece in the brand's tradition of blending industrial knit technology with manual craft, justifying its positioning in the luxury designer segment.
- Because the floral motif is created through the knit structure rather than applied on top, the openwork holes are part of the design — the pattern emerges from the same cotton yarn and gauge as the ground, so the open areas maintain their shape and transparency even after use and washing.
- Unlike embroidered motifs that can loosen or pull away with wear, an intarsia pattern is permanent — the floral design will fade uniformly with the cotton's natural aging rather than developing bald patches, which makes this cardigan a more durable investment for regular summer wear.
How it compares to other luxury summer cardigans
- Made in Europe where Marni’s Italian knitwear identity was shaped, this cardigan departs from the cost-saving play of an Etro floral-embroidered wool cardigan that carries a ‘Made in China’ label—a distinction that reinforces its artisanal claim for buyers who track garment provenance.
- Marni’s founding ethos under Consuelo Castiglioni fused a boho-European silhouette with a continuous conversation with modern art, so the two floral sprays here read as an artistic statement rather than a surface decoration—a creative register that separates the cardigan from the all-over pattern tradition of Etro’s floral embroideries or the reserved tailoring of Saint Laurent.
- Where the luxury market’s floral cardigans routinely use wool, cashmere, or wool-blend jacquard—Etro’s floral-embroidered version is 100% wool and Marni’s own wool floral uses a 90/10 wool-cashmere mix—this one is a deliberately sheer 100% cotton openwork, purpose-built to breathe and layer in high summer, leaving the heavier competitors to cooler months.
- The hand-embroidered Marni signature at the back of the neck is a finishing technique present on the label’s $2,900 wool cardigans, so its appearance on this $350 sale piece signals that the same artisanal attention is applied regardless of price point—turning the cardigan into a tactile collector’s item rather than a generic seasonal buy.
- While Marni’s hand-embroidered wool-cardigan cousins retail from $1,850 to $2,940, this openwork cotton version originally launched at $1,695 CAD (~$1,250 USD) as the label’s summer-tier entry—at the current $480 CAD (~$350 USD) sale, it delivers the same hand-stitched signature at less than a quarter of the wool pieces’ initial cost.
The hand-embroidered Marni signature
- Since Francesco Risso took creative direction in 2017, Marni has foregrounded visible handwork and mending as a design ethos; this hand-embroidered signature is a quiet reflection of that era's anti-perfectionist, art-driven luxury.
- Marni applies hand-guided embroidery across its collections—from floral intarsia on cashmere cardigans to logo mending on accessories—making this cardigan's neckline signature part of a consistent, atelier-level practice rather than an isolated embellishment.
Styling a men's floral openwork cardigan
- The hand-embroidered signature at the back of the neck and 'Made in Europe' construction elevate the cardigan beyond fast-fashion openwork — these details reinforce that the openwork pattern is executed with precision, reducing the risk of uneven stretching or loose threads that plague cheaper knits, and adding a subtle, conversation-worthy finishing touch that only the wearer knows is there.
- Marni's identity since 1994 has been rooted in an experimental dialogue with modern art, and creative director Francesco Risso (since 2017) has continued that push — wearing this cardigan signals an appreciation for an avant-garde Italian label where each piece is treated as a wearable art object, which is the reason its $480 sale price points less to utility and more to design connoisseurship.
- Two concentrated floral sprays on the chest and back — rather than an all-over print — draw the eye vertically and leave the majority of the garment a neutral cream base, making it easier to style than a full floral shirt because the cardigan itself provides a visual anchor that reads more like an artful accent than a pattern commitment.
- The openwork 100% cotton knit and short sleeves create a breezy, sheer layer that functions in warm weather like a textural overshirt — worn over a lightweight crewneck tee and linen trousers, the cardigan adds visual complexity without trapping heat, making it a practical statement piece for summer evenings rather than a purely decorative extra.
- The polo collar and tonal mother-of-pearl buttons borrow from classic tennis sweaters, introducing a preppy structure that contrasts with the openwork boho knit — this tension between polish and artisanal imperfection makes the cardigan read as luxury eclectic rather than hippie, allowing it to fit into smart-casual settings where a more unbuttoned floral garment would feel out of place.
How openwork cotton performs in summer
- The small decorative holes in the openwork knit act as built-in vents, allowing body heat to escape and air to circulate directly against the skin — this converts the cardigan from a heat-trapping layer into a breathable sun shield that actually promotes cooling airflow.
- 100% cotton naturally wicks sweat away from the skin and, because the openwork structure keeps air moving, evaporation occurs quickly — the result is a dry, cool feel rather than the damp cling of a solid knit or synthetic mesh.
Image Analysis
3 images- 01

Product
Front view of a short-sleeve openwork button-front cardigan on a model; cream mesh body with two large stylized floral motifs in black, yellow, and bright blue, ribbed collar and hem, and short sleeves.
- Overall silhouetteShort-sleeve, hip-length button-front cardigan worn open over body; straight hem that sits at the top of the hips.
1 region
x 0.12 · y 0.08 · w 0.76 · h 0.64 (high) - Fabric and openworkRectangular open mesh knit (square/rectangular holes) across the front panels and upper chest, creating a see-through effect.
1 region
x 0.18 · y 0.14 · w 0.64 · h 0.44 (high) - Collar and placketFlat, soft knit shirt-style collar and a vertical button placket in a solid tighter knit, matching the cardigan base color.
1 region
x 0.32 · y 0.04 · w 0.36 · h 0.12 (high) - ButtonsSingle column of round cream buttons down the center front; buttons are evenly spaced and stitched through the placket.
1 region
x 0.42 · y 0.14 · w 0.16 · h 0.48 (high) - Sleeves and cuffsShort sleeves in a tighter knit than the front mesh with narrow folded or ribbed cuffs in the same base color.
2 regions
x 0.12 · y 0.22 · w 0.20 · h 0.16 (high); x 0.68 · y 0.22 · w 0.20 · h 0.16 (high) - Left floral motifLarge stylized flower motif on the wearer's left front panel composed of a black top petal shape, a pale yellow rounded bloom below, and bright blue leaves/stems extending downward.
1 region
x 0.15 · y 0.24 · w 0.28 · h 0.44 (high) - Right floral motifMirror-positioned stylized flower on the wearer's right front panel with a black top petal cluster, pale yellow bloom element, and bright blue elongated leaves/stems.
1 region
x 0.57 · y 0.24 · w 0.28 · h 0.44 (high) - Ribbed hem trimSolid tighter-knit ribbed band at the cardigan hem in the same cream color as the collar and placket.
1 region
x 0.18 · y 0.56 · w 0.64 · h 0.08 (high)
Other
Cropped studio-front portrait of a male model wearing the cardigan against a plain light gray background; image shows torso to mid-thigh with soft even lighting and minimal shadows.
- Model and framingImage shows a frontal view of a model from just above the chin to the mid-thigh, hands relaxed at sides; head partially cropped.
1 region
x 0.06 · y 0.00 · w 0.88 · h 0.98 (high) - Background and lightingUniform light gray studio background with soft, even lighting that minimizes strong shadows and shows garment texture clearly.
- Visible non-product clothingModel is wearing dark blue denim pants with embroidered or printed small clustered dot patterns; these pants are not part of the cardigan product.
1 region
x 0.18 · y 0.60 · w 0.64 · h 0.36 (high) - Image qualityHigh-resolution, sharp focus on the garment; colors and knit texture are clearly resolved.
Colors
cream· main mesh bodyblack· floral top petalspale yellow· floral lower blooms#E3AD8Bbright cyan blue· floral leaves and stems- Overall silhouetteShort-sleeve, hip-length button-front cardigan worn open over body; straight hem that sits at the top of the hips.
- 02

Product
Upper-front view of a short-sleeve openwork knit cardigan with a cream polo collar, central button placket, mesh openwork front panels and large multicolor floral intarsia on the chest.
- Collar and placketPolo-style flat collar in a solid cream knit leading to a vertical central button placket in the same cream color and knit; placket has stitched buttonholes and visible stitching edges.
1 region
x 0.22 · y 0.08 · w 0.56 · h 0.18 (high) - ButtonsFour round cream buttons sewn on the placket; buttons are slightly glossy and contrast subtly with the matte knit.
1 region
x 0.42 · y 0.20 · w 0.16 · h 0.48 (high) - Openwork front panelRectangular open mesh knit on the front panels consisting of evenly spaced small square/rectangular holes, revealing skin tone behind the knit.
1 region
x 0.12 · y 0.22 · w 0.76 · h 0.62 (high) - Short sleevesShort sleeves in a tighter solid knit (not openwork) in the same cream color with a narrow hem at the sleeve edge.
2 regions
x 0.72 · y 0.54 · w 0.26 · h 0.22 (high); x 0.02 · y 0.52 · w 0.18 · h 0.24 (medium) - Left chest floral motifLarge stylized floral intarsia with a solid black petal/flower shape and bright blue stems/accents rising above a pale yellow flower base.
1 region
x 0.06 · y 0.46 · w 0.40 · h 0.44 (high) - Right chest floral motifMatching large stylized floral intarsia on the right side with a dominant black petal area, bright blue linear accents, and a pale yellow lower petal area.
1 region
x 0.54 · y 0.44 · w 0.40 · h 0.46 (high) - Front knit texture contrastContrast between the openwork mesh on the front panels and the denser solid knit of the collar, placket, and sleeve bands.
1 region
x 0.20 · y 0.12 · w 0.60 · h 0.64 (high) - Partial body and neckImage shows the model's lower face, neck, and upper chest behind the mesh; skin visible through the openwork.
1 region
x 0.24 · y 0.00 · w 0.52 · h 0.24 (high)
Other
Studio product detail shot cropped to the model's upper torso against a neutral light-gray background with soft, even lighting and minimal shadows.
- Shot compositionCentered close-up crop showing upper torso from just below the chin to the mid-torso, oriented vertically.
- BackgroundUniform light-gray background with no visible props or texture.
1 region
x 0.00 · y 0.00 · w 1.00 · h 1.00 (low) - Model presenceMale model is partially visible from the lower face down; no hands or additional props visible.
1 region
x 0.22 · y 0.00 · w 0.56 · h 0.30 (high) - Lighting and shadowSoft, even studio lighting with gentle shadows under the chin and slight shadowing within the mesh openings.
Colors
cream· main knit (collar, placket, sleeve bands)black· floral detail - black petals#0D0D0Ebright cyan-blue· floral detail - blue accentspale yellow· floral detail - yellow petals- Collar and placketPolo-style flat collar in a solid cream knit leading to a vertical central button placket in the same cream color and knit; placket has stitched buttonholes and visible stitching edges.
- 03

Product
Rear view of a short-sleeve openwork knit cardigan in an off-white/ivory tone with a small rectangular neck label showing the brand name.
- Back body knitFlat back panel of a lightweight openwork knit showing a uniform small mesh pattern across the back surface.
1 region
x 0.16 · y 0.12 · w 0.68 · h 0.66 (high) - Sleeve styleShort sleeves with a solid knit cuff band that contrasts slightly in texture from the openwork sleeve body.
2 regions
x 0.12 · y 0.18 · w 0.24 · h 0.29 (high); x 0.66 · y 0.18 · w 0.18 · h 0.28 (high) - Hem and collar finishStraight ribbed hem band at the waist and a narrow ribbed collar at the neckline, both in the same off-white color.
2 regions
x 0.18 · y 0.72 · w 0.64 · h 0.12 (high); x 0.40 · y 0.04 · w 0.28 · h 0.06 (high) - Neck label patchSmall rectangular fabric label sewn onto the upper center back near the collar showing printed characters.
1 region
x 0.45 · y 0.05 · w 0.14 · h 0.05 (high) - Brand text on label“MARNI”
1 region
x 0.45 · y 0.05 · w 0.14 · h 0.05 (high)
Other
Image shows a model wearing the cardigan photographed from behind against a neutral light gray background; partial denim pants are visible; soft even studio lighting produces minimal shadows.
- View and compositionRear three-quarter view of a person wearing the garment, centered in frame and cropped near mid-thigh.
- Background and lightingEven neutral light gray background with soft studio lighting and minimal harsh shadows.
1 region
x 0.00 · y 0.00 · w 1.00 · h 1.00 (low) - Visible prop clothingBlue denim pants worn by the model are visible from the waist down but are not part of the product being described.
1 region
x 0.15 · y 0.74 · w 0.70 · h 0.26 (high)
Colors
ivory· main bodywhite· neck label backgroundmedium blue· label text- Back body knitFlat back panel of a lightweight openwork knit showing a uniform small mesh pattern across the back surface.
Documents & Data
Q&A
4 answered- What are the exact chest and length measurements for this cardigan in different sizes? I want to ensure the regular fit works for my body type.
- We do not have exact chest and length measurements for each size in our listing. The cardigan is described as regular fit; for European size 54, approximate chest measurement is 112-116 cm and length is 68-70 cm based on typical Marni sizing. For precise numbers, please refer to Marni's official size guide.
- How should I care for this openwork cotton cardigan? Is it machine washable or does it require dry cleaning?
- Due to the delicate openwork cotton knit and mother-of-pearl buttons, we recommend dry cleaning to maintain the shape and prevent damage. If you prefer to hand wash, use cold water and mild detergent, then lay flat to dry. Always check the care label inside the garment for specific instructions.
- How sheer is the openwork knit? Do I need to wear a shirt underneath, or is it lined?
- The openwork knit has visible gaps in the floral pattern, so it is sheer. You will need to wear a shirt or undershirt underneath unless you prefer a layered look. It is not lined.
- Is the openwork knit prone to snagging? How durable is this cardigan for regular wear?
- Openwork knits are inherently delicate and can snag if caught on jewelry, rough surfaces, or during wear. The cotton yarn is durable for regular use with proper care, but we recommend avoiding sharp objects and handling gently. Hand washing or dry cleaning helps maintain the knit's integrity.