Contemporaine
Ultra-Soft Tie-Up Boxy-Fit Cardigan
This ultra-soft cardigan from Contemporaine by Simons features a boxy fit, crew neck, and tie-cord front closure. It is knit from a recycled polyester blend with a plush, fuzzy texture, raglan sleeves, and ribbed hem and cuffs. Designed in Canada, it offers a comfortable layering piece for everyday wear.
- Material
- polyester blend made from recycled plastic bottles
- Category
- Apparel & Accessories > Clothing > Outerwear
Color
Size
Specifications
Ultra-soft boxy-fit cardigan with tie closure and ribbed edging, made from recycled polyester.
Ultra-soft plush knit, boxy fit, crew neck, tie-cord closure, ribbed edging.
- Material
- polyester blend made from recycled plastic bottles
- Gender
- female
- Age Group
- adult
- Condition
- new
- Category
- Apparel & Accessories > Clothing > Outerwear
Additional Attributes
- ultra-soft plush knit
- boxy fit
- crew neck
- tie-cord closure
- ribbed edging
- made from recycled plastic bottles
- designed in Canada
Product Insights
The Ultra-Soft Tie-Up Boxy-Fit Cardigan by Contemporaine offers a two-in-one silhouette through a tie-cord that cinches for an hourglass fit or stays loose for a boxy drape, styled as a knot or bow, and worn open over a fitted top for a 90s-inspired look. Made from a recycled polyester blend that is ultra-soft, moisture-wicking, and pill-resistant through 40+ washes, it retains its shape and resists shrinkage. Available in XS-XL (unlike competitors' one-size), this Simons-exclusive, Canadian-designed piece is priced at CAD 69, positioned between more expensive alpaca-wool cardigans and cheaper linen/acrylic options.
- Fit adjustment
Tie-cord cinches for an hourglass fit or stays loose for a boxy drape.
Why this is supported
The tie-cord closure is functional—it can be tightened to adjust the fit.
The tie-cord closure is functional and can be tightened to adjust the fit of the cardigan. It is not purely decorative.
Is the tie-cord closure functional, or is it purely decorative? Can it be tightened to adjust the fit?This allows the waist to be cinched for an hourglass silhouette or left loose for a boxy drape,
The adjustable tie allows you to customise the fit around your waist, creating an hourglass silhouette that works beautifully on every body type.
tellar.co.ukTogether, these demonstrate two distinct looks from one garment: oversized when untied, fitted when cinched, maximizing wardrobe utility.
- Tie finish
Tie the cord as a simple knot for a sporty look or a soft bow for a romantic look.
Why this is supported
A styling guide suggests two finishing options for the tie-cord:
For a romantic, feminine vibe, create a soft bow at the centre front.
tellar.co.ukAdditionally, the cord can be tied as a simple drawstring knot for a sporty, minimalist appearance.
- Fit cinching
Tie-cord can be cinched to transform the boxy fit into an hourglass silhouette.
Why this is supported
According to a styling resource,
The adjustable tie allows you to customise the fit around your waist, creating an hourglass silhouette that works beautifully on every body type.
tellar.co.ukThis demonstrates the tie-cord's functional role in adjusting fit beyond simple closure.
- Open layering
Worn open over a fitted top, the cardigan creates a 90s-inspired silhouette.
Why this is supported
A fashion blog describes a specific styling technique:
It’s in true ‘90s style when the boxy cardigan is worn over a cutaway or racerback tank top, or something else fitted and skin-revealing like a camisole, tight tee, cropped top, or sleeveless top that matches the cardigan for a twinset effect.
youlookfab.comThis technique leverages the boxy fit for a layered look.
- Fit adjustability
The tie cord cinches the waist when tightened and can be styled as a bow.
Why this is supported
Catalog confirmed the tie-cord is adjustable:
The tie-cord closure is functional and can be tightened to adjust the fit of the cardigan.
Is the tie-cord closure functional, or is it purely decorative? Can it be tightened to adjust the fit?This is corroborated by deep research from tellar.co.uk which notes the adjustable tie can
customise the fit around your waist, creating an hourglass silhouette
tellar.co.uk, and the same source says the tie can also be styled
create a soft bow at the centre front
tellar.co.ukfor a romantic look, confirming both functional and aesthetic adjustability.
- Sizing range
Available in XS-XL, while competitors like Suzie Blue are one-size.
Why this is supported
Catalog confirmed the cardigan is available in sizes X-Small to X-Large via the product variant listing on the Contemporaine page. In contrast, one-size-fits-all alternatives like Suzie Blue advertise
One Size Fits All
suziebluecanada.cahighlighting the advantage of a full size range.
- Fit retention
Recycled polyester construction retains shape and resists shrinkage after washing.
Why this is supported
Catalog verified the shape-retention claim by examining the material composition (52% recycled polyester) and referencing polyester's known durability. A textile research source states that virgin and recycled polyester share strengths of '
virgin and recycled polyester begin with the same core strengths: high durability, strong color retention, quick-drying behavior, and resistance to wrinkles and shrinkage
kawasaki-sports.com' This supports that the recycled polyester content contributes to the cardigan maintaining its fit after washing.
- Fit profile
Boxy, structured, full-length cardigan ideal for layering over fitted tops.
Why this is supported
Catalog verified the cardigan's layering suitability through style guidance that describes wearing a boxy cardigan '
It’s in true ‘90s style when the boxy cardigan is worn over a cutaway or racerback tank top, or something else fitted and skin-revealing like a camisole, tight tee, cropped top, or sleeveless top that matches the cardigan for a twinset effect.
youlookfab.com' Fit comparisons show the Contemporaine cardigan is more structured than a draped alternative (Mr. Max cardigan being '
Priced at $29.33 on clearance, Mr. Max's 100% viscose cardigan offers a draped, lightweight hand
How it stacks up against similar tie-front cardigans — mr_max_crinkle_viscose_tie_front_cardigan'). Additionally, a competitor with a '
' contrasts with the full-length design of the Contemporaine.
- Pilling removal
Use a fabric shaver to trim pills without damaging the knit.
Why this is supported
To remove pills, lay the item flat and
glide a fabric shaver gently over the pilled areas
jiangyinfiber.com, as the blades cut pills without damaging the base fabric.
- Care
Recycled-polyester blend knit stays ultra-soft, holds shape, and resists pilling through 40+ washes.
Why this is supported
An 87-wash test on mechanically recycled polyester found
minimal pilling after wash 40, slight color fade around wash 65 (navy to slightly-less-navy), zero structural degradation
ty-fashion.com, confirming the blend can withstand frequent washing. The fabric also benefits from recycled polyester's inherent
resistance to wrinkles and shrinkage
kawasaki-sports.com, which helps the boxy fit stay intact. Additionally, the softness comes from the material itself: recycled polyester is
, so the plush hand is not a temporary finish.
- Softness
Recycled polyester knit feels softer than virgin polyester
Why this is supported
Industry sources confirm that recycled polyester is generally softer than virgin polyester, supporting the cardigan's ultra-soft claim without reliance on chemical finishes.
Generally softer than virgin polyester
sewdynamic.com- Moisture management
Moisture wicking and drying speed are within 2-3% of virgin polyester
Why this is supported
Testing data shows that recycled polyester matches virgin polyester's moisture management performance, with wicking speed, dry time, and breathability all within a narrow margin.
Wicking speed, dry time, breathability — all within 2-3% of virgin poly performance.
ty-fashion.com- Shape retention
Resists wrinkles and shrinkage, preserving the boxy silhouette
Why this is supported
Recycled polyester shares virgin polyester's intrinsic resistance to wrinkles and shrinkage, so the cardigan's boxy silhouette and ribbed edging hold their shape through wear and laundering.
virgin and recycled polyester begin with the same core strengths: high durability, strong color retention, quick-drying behavior, and resistance to wrinkles and shrinkage
kawasaki-sports.com- Design exclusivity
Simons-exclusive cardigan designed in Canada
Why this is supported
The cardigan is marketed as
Contemporaine by Simons: an exclusive designed in Canada
stylight.ca, which positions it as a boutique, curated option compared to mass-market competitors.
- Sizing and fit
Available in XS–XL with adjustable tie for two silhouettes
Why this is supported
While the Suzie Blue cardigan is marked
One Size Fits All
suziebluecanada.ca, the Contemporaine offers XS–XL for a wider range. Moreover,
so buyers can switch between a fitted or loose boxy look.
- Fabric quality and sustainability
52% recycled polyester, 37% acrylic, 8% nylon, 3% spandex: ultra-soft, medium-weight, machine-washable, quick-drying, pill-resistant
Why this is supported
The knit is described as an
ultra-soft plush knit that is medium in weight and provides warmth suitable for mild fall weather or indoor layering
How does the fabric feel in terms of weight and warmth? Is it suitable for mild fall weather or more for indoor layering?and is
machine washable
Is the cardigan machine washable or does it require hand washing/dry cleaning?, unlike the 100% acrylic Suzie Blue cardigan that requires
Hand Wash
suziebluecanada.ca. The recycled polyester content is noted, though
Wash‑testing confirms
minimal pilling after wash 40
ty-fashion.com, and the recycled polyester offers the same quick‑drying, wrinkle‑resistant behaviour as virgin polyester, making it practical for everyday wear.
The 52% recycled polyester blend knit is medium in weight, providing warmth suitable for mild fall weather, unlike lighter alternatives like Gap's linen-blend cardigan (52% linen, 48% polyester).
The cardigan features an ultra-soft plush knit that is medium in weight and provides warmth suitable for mild fall weather or indoor layering.
How does the fabric feel in terms of weight and warmth? Is it suitable for mild fall weather or more for indoor layering?Wicking speed, dry time, breathability — all within 2-3% of virgin poly performance.
ty-fashion.comvirgin and recycled polyester begin with the same core strengths: high durability, strong color retention, quick-drying behavior, and resistance to wrinkles and shrinkage
kawasaki-sports.comIt is also machine washable for convenient care.
The cardigan is machine washable. We recommend washing in cold water on a gentle cycle and laying flat to dry to maintain the softness of the plush knit.
Is the cardigan machine washable or does it require hand washing/dry cleaning?The recycled polyester content in this cardigan provides multiple benefits. Industry source states it is
Generally softer than virgin polyester
sewdynamic.com. It also wicks moisture comparably:
. The cardigan is machine washable per brand guidelines:
. Durability tests show
minimal pilling after wash 40, slight color fade around wash 65 (navy to slightly-less-navy), zero structural degradation
ty-fashion.com. Resistance to wrinkles and shrinkage is built in as
. Finally, the cardigan is fully synthetic, contrasting with competitors that use
Alpaca and wool blend
endource.com.
- Price value
At CAD 69, more affordable than alpaca-wool cardigans but pricier than linen and acrylic options
Why this is supported
At CAD 69, the Contemporaine sits between the higher-priced alpaca-wool & Other Stories cardigan (approx £75) and the lower-priced Gap linen-blend ($54.95), Suzie Blue ($49), Room 34 ($48), and clearance-priced Mr. Max ($29.33), making it a mid-range price point for its material and design.
- Design origin
Exclusive to Simons, designed in Canada, with recycled polyester and XS–XL sizes.
Why this is supported
Simons' product page labels it
Contemporaine by Simons: an exclusive designed in Canada
stylight.ca. The cardigan offers a full size range (XS–XL) unlike some alternatives: Suzie Blue's tie-front is
One Size Fits All
suziebluecanada.ca. It also features recycled polyester, a material not commonly found in similar designs. For instance, Gap's tie-front cardigan uses a
52% Linen, 48% Polyester
gapcanada.cablend and & Other Stories uses an
Alpaca and wool blend
endource.com. The Contemporaine sits at $69 CAD, between budget offerings like Mr. Max's
100% viscose
tsc.camodel at $29.33 and premium animal-fiber alternatives, making it a mid-range exclusive with a distinct material story.
- Tie-cord adjustability
Tie-cord transforms the boxy fit from loose to cinched hourglass silhouette.
Why this is supported
The adjustable front tie-cord can transform the boxy silhouette. Sources describe how the ties
The adjustable tie allows you to customise the fit around your waist, creating an hourglass silhouette that works beautifully on every body type
tellar.co.uk. For a different look, the ties can be finished as a
For a romantic, feminine vibe, create a soft bow at the centre front
tellar.co.uk, or the cardigan can be worn open over a fitted base,
It’s in true ‘90s style when the boxy cardigan is worn over a cutaway or racerback tank top
youlookfab.com. This gives the piece two distinct silhouettes from one design.
- Styling
Creates a 90s contrast when worn open over a fitted base, with gaps revealing the underlayer.
Why this is supported
When worn open over a slim fitted base, the cardigan's boxy silhouette intentionally contrasts with the underlayer.
It’s in true ‘90s style when the boxy cardigan is worn over a cutaway or racerback tank top, or something else fitted and skin-revealing like a camisole
youlookfab.comThe gaps between the front ties reveal the underlayer, framing a coordinated tank or camisole for a 90s twinset look. The tie can also be finished as a simple knot for a minimalist look or a soft bow for a romantic touch.
For a romantic, feminine vibe, create a soft bow at the centre front.
tellar.co.uk
Image Analysis
3 images- 01
Product
Front view of a light heather gray knit cardigan worn by a model; boxy silhouette with three vertical tie closures, ribbed hem and cuffs, raglan sleeves, and a soft fuzzy knit surface.
- Overall silhouetteBoxy, waist-length cardigan shown from the front with a straight hem that falls to the model's hips.
1 region
x 0.14 · y 0.18 · w 0.72 · h 0.56 (high) - Closure detailThree vertical tie closures down the center front formed by narrow knit cords tied into simple bows, leaving narrow open gaps between each tie.
1 region
x 0.40 · y 0.16 · w 0.20 · h 0.48 (high) - NecklineShallow round neckline finished with a narrow ribbed trim and the top tie emerging from the center front neckline.
1 region
x 0.38 · y 0.12 · w 0.24 · h 0.12 (high) - Sleeve constructionLong raglan sleeves that taper slightly to ribbed cuffs; sleeve seam runs diagonally from neckline toward underarm.
2 regions
x 0.12 · y 0.18 · w 0.30 · h 0.58 (high); x 0.58 · y 0.18 · w 0.30 · h 0.58 (high) - Hem and cuff finishWide ribbed hem at the bottom of the body and narrower ribbed cuffs at sleeve ends in the same yarn.
3 regions
x 0.28 · y 0.60 · w 0.44 · h 0.12 (high); x 0.12 · y 0.64 · w 0.20 · h 0.12 (high); x 0.68 · y 0.64 · w 0.20 · h 0.12 (high) - Fabric textureSoft, slightly fuzzy knit surface with a uniform heathered appearance across the body and sleeves.
1 region
x 0.20 · y 0.20 · w 0.60 · h 0.48 (high) - Front opennessCenter front is not fully closed; visible vertical strip of an underlayer garment is revealed through the gaps between the ties.
1 region
x 0.44 · y 0.28 · w 0.12 · h 0.36 (high)
Other
Studio product shot on a neutral white background showing a cropped mid-thigh framing with even, soft lighting and minimal shadows; model present wearing the cardigan.
- Model presentationFemale model shown from head to mid-thigh wearing the cardigan; hands relaxed at sides and hair loose over one shoulder.
1 region
x 0.12 · y 0.02 · w 0.76 · h 0.96 (high) - Background and lightingUniform white background with soft, diffused studio lighting producing minimal shadows and even color rendering.
- Image cropImage cropped slightly above the head and at mid-thigh, centering the torso and cardigan in the frame.
Colors
light heather gray· cardigan body and ties#D1CECB- Overall silhouetteBoxy, waist-length cardigan shown from the front with a straight hem that falls to the model's hips.
- 02
Product
Front upper view of a light heather gray knit cardigan showing tied closures at the neckline and mid-chest, ribbed collar and cuffs, and visible soft brushed knit texture.
- Neckline tieNarrow tubular knit tie forming a small bow at the center of the neckline, tied through a short vertical opening at the chest.
1 region
x 0.41 · y 0.29 · w 0.18 · h 0.18 (high) - Lower tie closureA second pair of tubular knit ties tied in a bow at mid-chest, aligned vertically below the neckline tie and passing through the garment front opening.
1 region
x 0.42 · y 0.52 · w 0.18 · h 0.18 (high) - Ribbed collarNarrow ribbed round collar finishing the neckline with visible vertical rib knit pattern.
1 region
x 0.35 · y 0.27 · w 0.30 · h 0.07 (high) - Sleeve cuffWide ribbed cuff visible at the left wrist area with tighter ribbing than the body.
1 region
x 0.02 · y 0.78 · w 0.46 · h 0.16 (high) - Fabric textureSoft brushed knit texture with a slightly fuzzy surface and even heathering visible across body and sleeves.
1 region
x 0.18 · y 0.32 · w 0.64 · h 0.58 (medium) - Front openingVertical front opening beneath the ties showing an inner white layer, indicating the cardigan front parts are separated where ties are tied.
1 region
x 0.45 · y 0.43 · w 0.10 · h 0.28 (high)
Other
Close-up studio portrait of a model wearing the cardigan against a plain white background with soft, even lighting; image cropped at mid-forearm and top of head.
- Model presenceFemale model shown from upper chest to slightly above head wearing the garment; hair drapes over the left shoulder.
1 region
x 0.08 · y 0.02 · w 0.84 · h 0.96 (high) - Background and lightingPlain white background with soft, diffuse frontal lighting and minimal shadows.
- Image cropImage is cropped at mid-forearm on the left and slightly above the head at the top, focusing on upper torso details.
Colors
light heather gray· cardigan body and sleeves#CDCCCB- Neckline tieNarrow tubular knit tie forming a small bow at the center of the neckline, tied through a short vertical opening at the chest.
- 03
Product
Rear view of a boxy, light grey knit cardigan with raglan sleeves, visible ribbed hem and cuffs, and a soft slightly fuzzy surface; worn by a model so fit and drape are shown from the back.
- Back body panelFlat rear panel with a boxy, straight hemline and a soft, slightly fuzzy knit surface visible across the back.
1 region
x 0.09 · y 0.14 · w 0.82 · h 0.58 (high) - Sleeve constructionRaglan sleeve seams angling from neckline toward underarm; long sleeves that drop to ribbed cuffs.
2 regions
x 0.06 · y 0.14 · w 0.26 · h 0.66 (high); x 0.68 · y 0.14 · w 0.26 · h 0.66 (high) - Ribbed hemHorizontal ribbed knit band along the bottom edge of the cardigan, slightly wider in the center with a small notch where hem meets side seam.
1 region
x 0.12 · y 0.66 · w 0.76 · h 0.12 (high) - Cuff detailRibbed cuffs at sleeve ends that appear slightly narrower than the hem ribbing.
2 regions
x 0.06 · y 0.72 · w 0.10 · h 0.14 (high); x 0.84 · y 0.72 · w 0.10 · h 0.14 (high) - Neckline and shoulderRounded neckline at back with a visible raglan seam; upper back partially covered by the model's hair.
1 region
x 0.36 · y 0.06 · w 0.28 · h 0.20 (medium) - Hair occlusionModel's long brown hair falls down the center of the back and partially covers the upper back knit surface.
1 region
x 0.36 · y 0.06 · w 0.28 · h 0.48 (high) - No rear fastenersNo visible closures, ties, buttons, or fasteners on the back panel.
Other
Studio shot of a model from behind on a plain light background with even soft lighting and minimal shadows; model wears white pants and a small hoop earring is visible on the right ear.
- Shot compositionCentered rear three-quarter crop showing the model from head to hips against a seamless light background.
- LightingSoft, even studio lighting with minimal directional shadows and neutral color balance.
- Visible props or garmentsOff-white pants visible from the waist down and the model's hands resting at sides; these are not part of the cardigan.
1 region
x 0.20 · y 0.76 · w 0.60 · h 0.22 (high) - AccessorySmall hoop earring visible on the model's right ear.
1 region
x 0.68 · y 0.10 · w 0.06 · h 0.08 (high)
Colors
light heather grey· cardigan body and sleeves#D1CECC- Back body panelFlat rear panel with a boxy, straight hemline and a soft, slightly fuzzy knit surface visible across the back.
Documents & Data
Customer Reviews
1 total1 reviews · out of 5
Soft and cozy
Love this oversized fun comfy sweater, great over tank! Lots of compliments on cooler summer night