Today I’m sharing my very first Alex Mill review and talking about the Alex Mill Nico Cardigan.
Based in SoHo, NYC, Alex Mill combines the talents of some of the great brands we all know and love: Somsack Sikhounmuong and father-son duo Mickey and Alex Drexler of The Gap, J. Crew, Old Navy, and Madewell. The trio joined forces in 2019 and began their obsessive approach to designing clothes that are well-fitting, expertly-crafted, and never go out of style.
Alex Mill is known for their no-fuss, highly-curated collection of closet basics. Their pieces are thoughtfully designed to last for years. When I was researching before my first Alex Mill purchase (as one does), something that came up again and again was the quality of materials and intentional design details.
In this Alex Mill review, I’ll cover the details and specifications of the Nico Cardigan, my thoughts on if it’s worth the $165 price tag, and, as always, some outfit inspo.
My Alex Mill Review: Nico Cardigan
I had been on the hunt for a light yellow sweater since early last year. I was very tempted to splurge on Sézane’s Emile Cardigan when they dropped a yellow version last spring, but I have heard mixed reviews on that sweater’s itchiness and didn’t feel right about it.
If there’s one thing I’ve learned over the last few years, it’s that Southern California living just doesn’t lend itself to much outside of 100% cotton. I have a handful of wool, alpaca, and cashmere pieces, but I can only wear them in the early mornings, evenings, or on the few cold days we have a year. And cotton is, to me, SO much more comfortable. I have sensitive skin and tend to get itchy easily, but cotton knit is something I can happily wear all day no matter the season.
The bottom line of this tangent is that I am trying to stick to purchasing 100% cotton sweaters from here on out. So, when Alex Mill dropped a light yellow version of their iconic, 100% cotton Nico cardigan this year, I knew I needed to give it a try.
This is a brand I’ve had my eye on for quite some time, so my expectations were high when I placed my order.
My Alex Mill Nico Cardigan Review
The first thing I noticed when I pulled the Nico cardigan out of its package was the quality and weight of the knit fabric. It was, as they say, love at first sight. The cotton knit is thick and well-made, making this the perfect cardigan for spring or fall transitional weather (or, in my case, the whole year round).
I LOVE how this cardigan fits and have worn it buttoned all way up as a “top,” open over a dress, and partially buttoned over a tee. Its oversized fit makes this cardigan even more versatile. It would be a wonderful addition to any spring packing list (speaking of, check mine out here).
The yellow “Butter” color is very muted. In fact, I would describe it as a sort of in between beige light yellow. It looks beautiful in person. It’s the perfect pop of color for spring without being overly loud or so bold that you wouldn’t want to wear it very often.
Design details
With its front button placket, thick knit trim, and effortless drop shoulder fit, Alex Mill’s Nico Cardigan boasts that obsessive attention to detail that its founders are known for.
Fabric + materials
The Nico Cardigan is made from 100% cotton with Corozo buttons. The cardigan is made in China.
I’ve already made my case about the fabric quality, but I’ll say it once more: the knit material is solid and sturdy and feels like I won’t need to be too precious with it. It’s an extremely functional knit which I love.
Sizing + fit
The fit is slightly boxy, and the dropped shoulders only add to the breezy effect.
You can go either direction, sizing wise. I would say it runs true to size, although I did size up to a Large since I like how this style looks oversized. You can see on some of the listing photos the models are wearing it more fitted which looks great too.
The length is perfect. It hits below my hips, but I’m not drowning in it. The sleeves have a very slight balloon shape. I read a few reviews saying the sleeves run short, but since I sized up, they are long on me.
If I’m wearing this buttoned up as a top, I do find it looks better if I leave the bottom two buttons undone to avoid any bulkiness through the hips. Just a personal preference!
Colors
Alex Mill has carried the Nico Cardigan for years. They have a handful of neutral colors that are always available, and then they usually come out with a couple seasonal colors in the spring and fall. Currently, the Nico cardigan is available in Dark Navy, Ivory, Faded Grove (a muted olive), Cosmic Blue, Black, Butter (this is the color I have), and Verdant Green (a bright kelly/emerald green).
Washing + care
It is suggested to wash the Nico cardigan on a cold delicate cycle and lay flat to dry.
Price
The Alex Mill Nico Cardigan costs $165. This is a higher price than I typically would pay for a cardigan made in China, but I had somehow missed that when I placed my order. Once it arrived, it was too late! LOL, I was already in love, and the quality was shockingly good. Can’t be perfect all the time.
Where to buy the Alex Mill Nico Cardigan
You can purchase the Nico cardigan on Alex Mill’s website, Bloomingdales, Shopbop, Evereve, Goop, and Tuckernuck.
Alex Mill Nico Cardigan outfit ideas
Thank you for checking out my Alex Mill review! For more reviews, outfit ideas, and packing lists, click here.
Light yellow cardigan: look for less
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