Not all cardigans are created equal. In fact, after working in the fashion industry for over a decade as a stylist and fashion editor, I can confidently say that the best type of cardigan is a crew-neck cardigan—and lucky for you, I’ve just spent my afternoon scouring the new season collections to find the very best versions on the market right now. Keep on scrolling and you’ll find them all neatly arranged by price alongside my styling tips for the season ahead.
What exactly makes a crew-neck cardigan so superior? I hear you ask. Well, no offense to wrap cardigans, long cardigans or even v-neck cardigans—but as someone who specialises in curating chic, easy-to-wear and long-lasting capsule wardrobe pieces for my clients and you, our Who What Wear readers, I would argue that no piece is more versatile, effortless and useful in an autumn/winter wardrobe than the crew-neck cardi.
Jess shows us how to layer a crew-neck cardigan with ease.
That’s because they look good styled in so many different ways. The options are truly endless, but this season I’m seeing fashion girls wearing them with a certain nonchalance that deserves to be studied. I’ve seen them buttoned up with nothing underneath, tucked in (very French) or out. Obviously they can be thrown over a white T-shirt with jeans to combat that September chill. Pop one on with your favourite vest top and dungarees or this season’s popular cargo trousers to balance out the boyishness. They look great with tailoring for the office and even silky slip skirts and dresses for drinks and dinner—very Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy. Not to mention they work as an added layer under any and all jacket categories—a blazer, a leather jacket, a trench coat, a wool coat. You get the picture.
A crew-neck cardigan is basically the ultimate layering piece, especially since it makes the act of ‘layering’ an easy task, whether you’re a seasoned stylist or not. So, if you’ve been considering a first purchase, or are looking to add to your existing collection (guilty!), I’d argue you’d be making a very wise choice indeed. Scroll on to see the best styles for autumn 2026, from M&S to Zara, all the way up to luxury investment styles from Miu Miu and Doen.
The Best Crew-Neck Cardigans Under £50
I can’t believe how affordable this expensive-looking cardigan is.
This comes up large apparently, so pick your size accordingly!
The added scarf is a cute styling touch.
The ruffles!
A chunkier version from Topshop.
A great affordable autumn staple.
100% wool for under £50? Yes please.
The Best Crew-Neck Cardigans Under £100
I always turn to COS for my knitwear.
Another designer-looking buy.
A true classic that gets released every year.
I love the pockets on this one.
Camel is such a rich-looking colour.
One each, please!
The Best Crew-Neck Cardigans Under £200
This comes in an array of colours, and is widely regarded as the perfect cardigan among my fashion peers.
This gives me such ’90s vibes.
This looks so luxurious.
With Nothing Underneath is always reliable for timeless wardrobe staples.
Make a statement with this argyle version.
This is a really chic outfit.
If you loved the pointelle trend through summer, this is the perfect layering piece to add into your autumn rotation.
The Best Crew-Neck Cardigans Over £200
If you’re looking for a perfect cardigan to make a forever investment in, I’d recommend this Doen number.
Famously popular among fashion people, &Daughter’s bold shades have won me over just as much as their classic neutrals.
An elevated style that would work well for workwear and smarter dressing.
The dream shade.
Navygrey is another knitwear brand that insiders always turn to.
Big fisherman-core energy.
The quality is beautiful at Toast, and you can always take pieces back for repair to extend their lifespan as well.
Iconic, honestly.
This + jeans = my dream cosy autumn uniform.
