Everyone's Still Wearing Cardigans for Spring—My Fashion Friends Are Getting Theirs From Zara, H&M or COS

I've done a deep dive through the high street's new-in sections to find the best cardigans to invest in for the new season.

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Women wear chic cardigan outfits styled with denim and skirts
(Image credit: Who What Wear)

You'll probably be glad to hear that the cardigan renaissance of the last few years is continuing into 2026, but this season in particular it feels decidedly polished. No longer just a cosy, practical throw-on, now the cardigan is taking centre stage and being styled as a sleek hero piece—worn buttoned-up as a top, layered over slip dresses or paired with tailored trousers for that effortless high-low balance.

What’s great about this versatile knitwear trend is that it's not only wearable, you don't need to break the bank to find a really good one. In fact, the high street are stepping up their cardigan game right now, and it seems that every time I compliment one of my most stylish friends in the fashion industry on their cardigan, they tell me it’s from Zara, COS or H&M—a true insider stamp of approval.

So, in my quest to find the perfect style for myself, I've pulled together an edit below of the best new-in H&M, Zara and COS cardigans for 2026. H&M is delivering soft, wearable classics in versatile neutral shades, perfect for everyday layering. Zara, as always, brings a directional twist, from cropped silhouettes to sculptural knits that feel instantly statement-making. Meanwhile, COS offers refined, minimalist options with clean lines and elevated finishes that could easily pass for contemporary designer buys.

Comfortable, chic and easy to style, the cardigan has become spring’s most reliable wardrobe update. Keep scrolling to see the 21 best styles from Zara, H&M and COS to shop now.

The Best COS Cardigans

The Best H&M Cardigans

The Best Zara Cardigans

Emily Dawes
Emily Dawes
Senior Shopping Editor

Emily Dawes is an editor, stylist and writer with over 12 years in the industry. Known for impeccable taste, our readers trust her advice, especially in her column, expensive-looking high street buys. Working for Who What Wear UK since 2020, Emily has been a contributing editor, branded content editor and affiliate editor. Now, as senior shopping editor, she leads the e-commerce content strategy. After obtaining a BA in English and American Studies from Nottingham University, Emily landed at The Mail on Sunday’s YOU. As the magazine’s fashion editor, she travelled the globe to style and direct fashion editorials and celebrity cover shoots. As a freelancer, she has styled Grazia cover shoots, developed brand marketing and content plans and worked with VIP clients including Elizabeth Day.