Whether you're struggling to know what to wear in the varying autumn weather, or just need a warm cover-up for the office, we all need a stylish cardigan to throw on with everything this season.
Cardigans have to be up there with the most ever-evolving clothing items around. The once-frumpy choice is now a stylish staple for bringing an outfit together – and the knitted cardi is suitable for every season.
© GettyCardigans: a knit & style for every season
Coco Chanel is known to have made cardigans mainstream back in the 1920s, and the classic knitwear has had its ebbs and flows in being a fashion must-have ever since. In 2024, we've seen a rise in Chanel-style structured cardigans that bring an sophisticated feel to any look, while lightweight cardigans are perfect for layering.
A cardigan is essential in any capsule wardrobe. Whether a fitted or relaxed style, a cardigan adds dimension to any outfit – pairing perfectly with tailored trousers for work, or thrown with jeans and a fitted top for an effortlessly put-together look. Cardigans with gold buttons are also a top trend right now, and the elegant adornments will elevate an otherwise simple look.
For the chilly fall weather, wool and cashmere, either 100% or a blend, are great options. Natural, breathable fabrics like cotton and linen are ideal for when warmer days come, as are thinner blends with breathable modal and Tencel/lyocell.
Regardless of the time of year, cardigans made from natural fabrics may be on the more expensive side, so synthetic fibers, including viscose or rayon blends, are also an option and when made well, can look just like genuine linen or other natural fabrics.
How I chose the best cardigans
- Style: Whether you're looking for a lightweight transitional cardigan or a trending buttoned style to throw on in the chilly weather, I've picked out a range of different styles - from cropped to classic - so there should be something for everyone.
- Price: I've carefully chosen stylish pieces at a range of price points, from affordable finds to luxurious investment pieces.
- Fabric: There are a variety of materials in this edit, from 100% linen or wool, to cotton blends and inexpensive synthetic knits.
- Availability: Fashion moves fast, which is why all of the products are either fully stocked or available in most sizes.
Shop the best cardigans for women
1/12
M&S Ribbed Button Front Cardigan
© M&S- Sizes: XS-XL
- Colours: Light Natural, Soft Pink
- Material: 57% polyester, 34% acrylic and 9% polyamide
Editor's Note: "If you're building your capsule wardrobe for autumn, M&S's ribbed cream cardigan is a must-have. Made from lightweight yet warm cloud yarn, the crew neck knit is perfect for transitional dressing when the weather can't make up its mind, and it can be paired with everything from wide-leg trousers to satin maxi skirts."
2/12
The Knotty Ones 'Preila' Merino Wool Cardigan
- Sizes: S-L
- Colours: Charcoal, Sea Salt
- Material: 100% Merino wool, cruelty-free certified
Editor's Note: "If you’re looking for a hand-finished, fair-trade and sustainable cardigan, and hope to support women-led businesses, you'll love this The Knotty Ones creation.
"Inspired by the tiny seaside village of Preila, this cardigan is really special, one to cherish. It's so buttery soft that you feel like you're wrapped in luxury. And you really need to see the incredible details in person - the craftsmanship is beautiful. I could see Nicole Kidman wearing it as she gazes across the ocean from the balcony of her California waterfront mansion in Big Little Lies. (IYKYK).
"The brand's knits are all made with 100% natural yarn - no chemicals or microplastics involved. Plus, the pieces are made by artisans and in woman-run factories in Lithuania. I love that each design has two labels: the brand's name and also one dedicated to the person who created the garment. Every piece also comes with a hand-written card from the artisan who knitted your cardigan with care."
3/12
H&M Rib-Knit Cardigan
© H&M- Sizes: XXS-XXL
- Colours: Red, Navy, Cream, Green
- Material: Cotton 60%, Acrylic 40%
Editor's Note: "H&M's chunky red cardigan is perfect for injecting some colour into your new season outfits. It has a loose fit with a round neckline, complete with patch front pockets and gold-coloured metal buttons. The gently dropped shoulders give a flattering finish that's versatile enough to work with just about anything in your wardrobe."
4/12
& Other Stories Buttoned Knit Cardigan
© & Other Stories- Sizes: XS-L
- Colours: Mole, Beige
- Material: 40% RWS Wool, 30% RAS Alpaca
Editor's Note: "& Other Stories' gorgeous alpaca blend cardi is at the top of my wishlist now. Featuring ribbed detailing across the neckline, cuffs, and hem and finished with brown buttons, I'll be wearing mine with linen trousers and trainers, layering up with white T-shirts as the weather gets cooler."
5/12
Phase Eight Anna Button Ribbed Cardigan
© Phase Eight- Sizes: XS-L
- Colours: Burnt Orange
- Material: 50% Viscose, 28% Polyester, 22% Polyamide
Editor's Note: "Burnt orange pieces are always a favourite during autumn. Phase Eight's Anna cardigan is effortlessly stylish with its ribbed texture, patch pockets, and gold buttons. Style with a pair of gold statement earrings to elevate the look."
6/12
Mango Button Knit Cardigan
© Mango- Sizes: XS-XL
- Colours: Black, Brown Stripe
- Material: 50% viscose, 28% polyester, 22% polyamide
Editor's Note: "Mango's fitted knit cardigan is so elegant with its rounded neckline, contrasting white trim, and metallic silver buttons. I love the monochrome style buttoned up and worn with tailored trousers and ballet flats for a smart workwear ensemble."
7/12
ASOS Crop Crew Neck Cardigan
© ASOS- Sizes: 4-18
- Colours: Cream, Mocha
- Material: 54% Polyester, 37% Acrylic, 9% Nylon
Editor's Note: "ASOS just dropped tons of chunky cropped cardigans, and the mocha shade is my favourite. Perfect for layering, I'd wear this with a black mini skirt, tights and chunky boots, and I'd throw on a cream longline coat for those colder autumn days."
8/12
Reformation Clara Cashmere Cardigan
© Reformation- Sizes: XS-XL
- Colours: 13 colours available
- Material: 95% recycled Cashmere, 5% Cashmere
Editor's Note: "If you're looking for a cardigan worth investing in, Reformation's Clara knit is one you'll buy now and wear forever. Made from cosy cashmere, the daywear style has a relaxed fit and a crew neck, while the lightweight design will be a staple during every season."
9/12
White Stuff Judi Cardi
- Sizes: UK 6 - 24
- Colours: Mid Blue
- Material: 60% recycled polyester, 27% polyester, 10% RWS wool. 3% Spandex
Editor's Note: "With a classic fit perfect for layering, this cardigan isn't just made with recycled fibres and responsibly sourced wool, it's also in a lovely shade of blue to add some joy to your wardrobe. Basically, it's a double fashion win!"
10/12
New Look Knit Crew Neck Cardigan
© New Look- Sizes: S-XL
- Colours: Six colours available
- Material: 51% Recycled Polyester, 24% Polyamide, 23% Acrylic, 2% Elastane
Editor's Note: "Burgundy is without a doubt the colour of the season, and New Look is embracing the trend. This crew neck cardi is so versatile for wearing over jeans, midi skirts and floaty dresses, and it would layer well with autumn jackets such as trench coats and utility styles."
11/12
Nobody's Child Knitted Cardigan
© Nobody's Child- Sizes: XS-L
- Colours: Grey, Black
- Material: 57% Recycled Polyester, 43% Recycled Acrylic
Editor's Note: "Nobody's Child is nailing the new-season styles right now, and this grey cable knit cardigan is ticking all the boxes. Whether you're wearing it buttoned up or down, the high street buy will be a wardrobe staple. It has ribbed trims and a cosy fit, finished with contrasting buttons."
12/12
French Connection Melissa Wool Blend Cardigan
© French Connection- Sizes: XS-XL
- Colours: Dusted Blue
- Material: 52% acrylic, 31% polyester, 8% nylon, 7% wool, 2% elastane
Editor's Note: "I'm obsessed with the dusty blue shade on this French Connection cardigan. It has a thicker design that almost resembles a bomber jacket, so it's great for the colder weather. Featuring front poppers, ribbed cuffs, and a relaxed arm, I'd recommend teaming it with wide-leg trousers for a stylish finish."
