Cozy knitwear gets a dramatic update in the Noir & Oatmeal Braided Waterfall Cardigan by Forever 21.

Designed in a bold marled blend of charcoal black, soft gray and oatmeal cream, this chunky knit cardigan combines the comfort of an oversized sweater with the shape and movement of a statement jacket.

The first thing that catches the eye is the substantial braided shawl collar. Thick cable-like knit detailing frames the neckline and continues down the front, giving the cardigan texture and a handcrafted feel. A coordinating self-tie closure at the waist allows the silhouette to be worn open and relaxed or gently cinched for more definition.

Horizontal stripes across the sleeves contrast with vertical striping through portions of the body, while a wide ribbed waist section helps create shape. Below the waist, the knit flares into an exaggerated asymmetrical handkerchief hem, creating movement and a flattering draped finish.

From the back, the cardigan is equally distinctive. Vertical black-and-cream striping leads into a defined ribbed waist before opening into the longer waterfall hem.

Wear it casually with jeans and ankle boots, dress it up over black faux-leather leggings and tall boots, or layer it over tailored trousers for a polished cold-weather look.

This is not simply a sweater to keep warm in. It is a sweater that finishes the outfit.

Product Highlights

• Forever 21
• Chunky marled knit construction
• Charcoal black, gray and oatmeal color palette
• Bold striped pattern
• Statement braided shawl collar
• Self-tie front closure
• Defined ribbed waist section
• Long sleeves
• Horizontal striped sleeves
• Vertical striped body detailing
• Dramatic waterfall drape
• Asymmetrical handkerchief hem
• Relaxed yet feminine silhouette
• Textured boutique-style knit
• Easy layering piece
• Ideal for fall and winter styling

Why You’ll Love It

This cardigan gives you several looks in one garment.

Wear it open and the long front panels create a relaxed waterfall silhouette.

Tie it loosely at the waist and the shape becomes softer and more feminine.

Cinch it more firmly and the wide ribbed waist creates a much more structured profile.

The neutral palette also makes it highly versatile. Black and cream give you plenty of options without making the sweater feel plain, while the marled yarn adds even more depth.

It works particularly well with:

Black • Cream • Ivory • Gray • Camel • Chocolate • Denim • Burgundy

Perfect For

Weekend Style — Throw it over a simple tee, denim and boots.

Brunch & Shopping — Comfortable but considerably more polished than a basic sweater.

Casual Office Days — Pair with tailored trousers and a fitted knit.

Travel — Cozy, easy to layer and visually interesting.

Dinner Casual — Wear over black faux-leather pants and heeled boots.

Fall Outings — Ideal with denim, suede boots and a structured handbag.

Winter Layering — Works beautifully over a fitted turtleneck.

Style It Your Way

Casual Chic

Layer over an ivory fitted sweater or tee, medium-wash denim and taupe or cognac ankle boots.

Finish with a structured brown handbag and simple gold hoops.

Cozy Weekend

Wear with a black fitted turtleneck, black leggings or slim pants and black ankle boots.

This lets the striped knit provide all of the visual interest.

Polished & Modern

Pair it with a cream blouse or turtleneck, black tailored trousers, nude pumps, and a structured black handbag.

The dramatic knit softens what would otherwise be a conventional office look.

Edgy Luxe

Wear it over a black base with faux-leather leggings and tall black boots.

Fit & Silhouette

The cardigan has a relaxed upper body with a more defined waist, thanks to the wide ribbed knit panel and self-tie closure.

The braided shawl collar adds volume around the neckline, while the lower portion flares into a dramatic, pointed waterfall hem.

Long sleeves provide a streamlined balance to the fuller body.

• Shoulder to shoulder
• Armpit to armpit
• Waist width unstretched
• Waist width gently stretched
• Sleeve length
• Center-back length
• Longest side/front point
• Belt/tie length

📏 View our Size Guide to find your perfect fit.

🚚 Standard shipping within the US: $7.99. Estimated delivery: 3–5 business days.

📦 Easy returns within 14 days. View our Return Policy.