My Best Friend Wanted an Expensive-Looking Cardigan—9 Chic H&M Styles I Sent Her Back
H&M just dropped some very chic knitwear that you need to see now. Scroll to see my top picks below.
Like floral dresses, strappy sandals and breezy linen, dressing in spring feels almost incomplete without a cardigan. If you’d asked me a few years ago however, I’d have felt strongly about that sentiment. As a 26-year-old fashion editor, cardigans had always felt like a “dated” purchase rather than an elevated staple. Even now, in 2026, when the traditional idea of a "spring cardi" crosses the mind, vivid images of my 87-year-old grandmother's favourite moth bitten argyle style is the first thing to arise.
But, like most things in fashion, things move in cycles, and the humble cardigan has had something of a rebrand, and the current ones trending are decidedly chicer. Balancing timelessness with trend, transitional warmth without the bulk of a chunky jumper, cardigans have become 2026's hottest accessory. And this spring it's been impossible to miss the vibrant cropped cashmere, cocooning funnel-neck or ever-popular waisted cardigans, buttoned, slung or draped around fashion's most elevated dressers. And, as it happens, many of the most expensive-looking iterations actually come from H&M.
Fashion person Jessica Faye wears a the H&M waisted cardigan (£32.99).
A one-stop-shop of sophisticated buys, the spring cardigans on offer at H&M are some of this seasons very best. With a penchant for luxurious shapes, timeless colourways and delicate details (be it softly structured shoulders to add shape or a double-layered placket for a seamless, button-less finish), every iteration has that uber-luxe appeal we're always searching for when shopping the high street.
With a coffee in hand and cardigans on the mind, I’ve uncovered 9 cardigan gems worth the spend. So, whether you’re after a cropped cashmere to offset your current rotation of jeans-and-a-nice-tee, or a fluffy mohair-blend perfect for days when the chill sets in, look, I’ve got you covered. Scroll down to discover this season's best below. Happy shopping!
1. Rib-Knit Cardigan
If you still long for that timeless Khaite cardigan but the price point is just a tad out of reach, look no further. A waisted, softly structured cardigan this looks far more expensive then its £33.
2. Cashmere Cardigan
Part of the brands most recent Studio Collection, this angle seamed, gently oversized cashmere cardigan is one of my personal favourites.
3. Wool Zip-Through Cardigan
Comprised of a soft, fine-knit wool this zip-through cardigan has all the makings of a best seller. From the ribbed cuffed detail to the spring jacket like finish, its a piece you'll pull out again and again.
4. Mohair-Blend Cardigan
A soft, mohair blend knit with a wide Peter-Pan collar will add an elevated touch to your every day jeans, or a collarless jacket.
5. Cable-Knit Cardigan
Cosy, cable knit and honestly quite timeless, you'll be pressed to find a cardigan quite as chic.
6. Short-Sleeved Cardigan
With gentle ribbing around the neck and trims, this short-sleeved cardigan has that timeless appeal we're always striving for.
7. Zip-Through Cardigan
The grandma-coded "zip through cardigan" has quickly become one of this seasons biggest trends. And just st look at this vibrant shade of red.
8. Fitted Cardigan
Sleek and sophisticated, this fitted cardigan has a has a bodycon fit for a smooth silhouette like second skin. How to keep warm in style.
9. Crochet Cardigan
Leaning into the lingerie as outerwear look, this soft crochet knit exposes just enough skin, and leans into French design for this timeless shape.
Shop More H&M Cardigans I Love:
With a deep neckline and nipped waist, this cardigan is for those looking to lean into dopamine dressing this spring.
The off-the-shoulder finish is an innately nice touch.
Add a touch of colour to your look with this sunny butter-yellow.
This is exactly how I'll be dressing this spring.
With an intricate ribbed finish and marble-effect buttons, this cardigan looks far more expensive than £38.
From leathers to cardigans, everything with a peplum finish is set to be huge this year.
With six colourways available, you're sure to find one to suit.
With a oversized finish, this is the perfect cardigan to lounge around the house.
Shop the matching trousers below (£32.99)
Layer underneath a trench coat and finish with a white tee and jeans for an everyday 'fit this spring.
