My Friend Asked Me for the Most Expensive-Looking Spring Cardigans—9 Chic Styles I Sent Back
From waisted silhouettes to refined merino knits, these high-street cardigans deliver the polished, minimalist feel fashion people are embracing for spring 2026.
I don’t want to jinx it, but if the recent stretch of sunshine and slightly milder temperatures are anything to go by, spring finally feels within reach. After months of heavy coats and endless layering, I’m more than ready to lighten things up—and with a new season comes the return of the pieces that make getting dressed feel easy again. For me, that means linen trousers, ballet flats and, most importantly, a really great cardigan.
Few items capture the spirit of transitional dressing quite like a cardigan. Once considered a slightly overlooked wardrobe staple, the style has undergone a quiet fashion revival in recent seasons. Last year, waisted cardigans dominated, offering a more tailored, grown-up feel, while this year’s iterations—from funnel-neck styles to preppy collared designs—prove just how versatile the knit has become. Far from frumpy, today’s cardigans feel polished, modern and surprisingly directional.
With that in mind, I set out to refresh my own collection, focusing on styles that look far more expensive than their price tags suggest. From H&M to COS, these are the high-street cardigans that deliver on both quality and style, and feel perfectly suited to spring 2026.
Shop The Best Expensive-Looking Cardigans 2026
A reliable wardrobe staple that proves simplicity often looks the most expensive. The lightweight knit and clean button-front design make it ideal worn alone as a top or layered over a tee.
An effortless layering piece defined by its fluid drape and soft handle. Easy, versatile and exactly the sort of cardigan that becomes part of a daily uniform.
The collar instantly elevates a basic knit, and this style’s subtle detailing gives it a more premium finish. A strong layering piece for unpredictable spring temperatures.
A standout for its sculpted silhouette, this cardigan defines the waist while maintaining COS’s signature minimal aesthetic. Structured enough to replace a blazer on milder days.
Soft, easy and endlessly wearable, this cardigan delivers understated polish without trying too hard.
A heritage-inspired knit that feels timeless rather than traditional thanks to the contemporary funnel-neck design.
Soft texture meets subtle statement. The mohair blend creates a gentle halo finish, while the graphic knit pattern adds personality without overwhelming minimalist outfits.
Clean lines and pure wool fabrication make this cardigan feel far more elevated than its price suggests. Designed to skim the body, it works beautifully styled buttoned up as a knit top.
Polished enough for tailoring yet relaxed with denim, this is the kind of piece you’ll reach for daily.
A timeless V-neck shape that works across seasons. The clean finish makes it easy to dress up or down, whether styled with tailoring or relaxed denim.
Statement buttons add just enough interest to elevate this otherwise classic silhouette. A simple styling detail that makes even the most minimal outfit feel considered.
Part cardigan, part jacket, this structured knit leans into the polished cardigan trend. Jewel buttons add a subtle statement while keeping the overall look refined.
Blurring the line between knitwear and tailoring, this double-breasted style brings a structured, blazer-like feel to everyday outfits.
COS excels at refined essentials, and this merino cardigan is a perfect example. Lightweight yet luxurious, it delivers clean lines and a timeless silhouette designed to outlast seasonal trends.
A classic done exceptionally well. The relaxed silhouette and soft knit make this an effortless everyday option that still feels elevated.
Lightweight and luxuriously soft, the silk-cotton blend gives this cardigan a refined sheen that instantly elevates everyday dressing. Ideal for layering through spring and early summer.
A cardigan that feels subtly tailored rather than purely cosy, this style stands out thanks to its softly tapered waist, V-neckline, patch pockets and tonal buttons.
Minimal and versatile, this piece delivers understated elegance. A dependable layering knit that feels quietly sophisticated.
Slightly more substantial, this wool-blend style works perfectly as light outerwear during transitional weather. Timeless, practical and endlessly wearable.
