So this is another shawl collar cardigan. What can we say? it’s an illness. And we’ve hit two birds with one stone, combining our semi-obsession with shawl collars with our full on obsession with anything from Japan. And, to top it all off, the cardigans use flecked wool (aka menswear blogger obsession number 38282721). Like all pieces from Japan, you’ll need to get your proxy on. (Style Cruise)

Song remains the same, detailed images after that leap.

We’ve been overdosing on shawl collars lately, forgive us. We’ve also been overdosing on Paul Smith for a while – but we’re not asking for forgiveness about that. We don’t usually post up black jumpers as they’re a bit too ‘KGB Hitman’ for our tastes. Thankfully the flecking (not sure if that’s the term for it, but stay with us) makes sure you don’t look like one of those guys who think black is slimming. And if you are, don’t be fooled – we can still see your gut regardless of the colour of your sweater. (Paul Smith)

Detailed images after the leap.

Yellow is still a taboo in menswear. We’re the first to admit that it doesn’t suit everyone, but a little bit of colour can add a whole lot to an outfit. If you’re into the chambray and denim look, then chances are that you’re looking a bit boring right now – don’t take offense. A sweater, like this YMC one, would be the perfect way to add a bit of life to your look. (My Wardrobe)

Take a leap to see detailed shots.

Nigel Cabourn has been in this game for years and it’s made him an animal. He’s known for his attention to detail, high quality and equally high price points. Pieces like this display two of those aforementioned points with the authentic Everest pattern and shawl collar (and you know we love a shawl collar).  And at £200, it’s an affordable slice of Cabourn. (Coggles)

You know the drill, detailed shots after the leap.

We’ve been on the lookout for a burgundy slim fit (but not too skinny) varsity for months now and the results have been conclusive; this product doesn’t exist. While we wait for the varsity gods to bless us, we have to make do with this Mihara Yasuhiro jacket.

It’s not too shabby – shawl collar, leather arms and all that jazz. It uses deer skin, wool, nylon and even throws a little cashmere in the mix, just in case you don’t feel luxurious enough when your rocking it. You can’t order this online, so you’ll have to brush up on your Japanese and email the folks at Mindtrive to get hold of this. Rosetta Stone is your friend. (Mindtrive)

Take a leap to see the back of the grey varsity and the all black version.

We’ve grown a bit tired of ‘design your own’ sites that don’t allow us to do anything of the sort. A prime example of this is Rugby’s continuation of their ‘make your own’ collection. While we like the additional pieces they’ve made available, If all you can is add a patch and a sewn name, then it’s not a new design – merely customisation.

In Rugby’s case, the fact that you can’t do much is a gift in itself. Their design is usually a little heavy handed, so it’s nice to have the option to do away with the oversized emblems and calm the piece down a bit. (Rugby)

If there’s anything you can learn from this post, it’s that we’re a sucker for a shawl. There’s no shortage of shawl collars out this season (now that we’re officially in AW09, according to the slightly barmy fashion gods) but a good one will always catch our eye.

This Oliver Spencer cardigan is lightweight enough to wear during a chilly summer’s day (i.e. all summer days in London) and even has a nice breast pocket – althoughwe doubt it’ll be able to hold anything substantial. It’s also on sale  – isn’t everything right now? – and comes in at £67.50 (down from £135). (Oliver Spencer)

For some bizarre reason, cream shawl neck sweaters are incredibly hard to come across. Even if you do find one, it’s usually a poor quality, floppy shawl neck version done by a high street retailer. So that’s why we were glad to find this luxurious looking sweater. We know it’s a little forward to be looking at AW09 pieces when it’s swelteringly hot in most places, but that’s the (somewhat stupid) way the fashion world works. (Browns)

We’re giving this Opening Ceremony Shawl Collar Coat the rehash treatment. The shawl collar coat is made from heavyweight wool. The closures are slightly off center to wrap you in and help decrease the blowback from Father Winter. Made in the USA and available now from Ron Herman.

More views of the Opening Ceremony Shawl Collar Coat after the jump.

Farah may have gotten its burst in Britain during the 70’s but the line has its roots in Texas USA. Like way back – 1920’s to be exact. Back then, El Paso, TX was the “jean capital of the USA” and the Farah family opened doors to move their quality wears before the economy and Depression forced their hand into the military world. Luckily the casual wear survived in its own right. Proper for the season are these shawl collar knit sweaters. They’re made from 70/30 acrylic/wool and are fashioned with a detailed leather knotted button. Available in Red Sky or Midnight Blue from Hip Leeds. A great alternative to the Swedish knits if you prefer.

More views of the Farah Shawl Collar Knit Sweaters after the jump.