Cardigans Are Chicer This Way: 29 Crew-Neck Styles to Prepare You For Autumn

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

M&S

Crew Neck Cardigan With Wool

I can't believe how affordable this expensive-looking cardigan is.

H&M

Loose-Fit Cardigan

This comes up large apparently, so pick your size accordingly!

MANGO

Striped Cardigan With Detachable Scarf

The added scarf is a cute styling touch.

M&S

Ruffle Crew Neck Cardigan

The ruffles!

Topshop

Topshop Knitted Boxy Deep Rib Cardigan in Green

A chunkier version from Topshop.

H&M

Fine-Knit Cardigan

A great affordable autumn staple.

ZARA

100% Wool Plain Knit Cardigan

100% wool for under £50? Yes please.

The Best Crew-Neck Cardigans Under £100

COS

Merino Wool Cardigan

I always turn to COS for my knitwear.

Nobodys Child

Brown and Yellow Slim Fit Cardigan

Another designer-looking buy.

Sezane

Gaspard Cardigan

A true classic that gets released every year.

H&M

Wool-Blend Pocket-Detail Cardigan

I love the pockets on this one.

Massimo Dutti

Knit Cardigan With Button Detail

Camel is such a rich-looking colour.

Uniqlo

100% Cashmere Crew Neck Cardigan

One each, please!

The Best Crew-Neck Cardigans Under £200

Reformation

Clara Cashmere Crew Cardigan

J.Crew

Double-Layer Cardigan in Striped Merino Wool Blend

This gives me such '90s vibes.

H&M

Brushed Cashmere Cardigan

This looks so luxurious.

With Nothing Underneath

Jura Cardigan: Yak Wool, Dark Grey Melange

With Nothing Underneath is always reliable for timeless wardrobe staples.

ALIGNE

Deana Knitted Argyle Cardigan

Make a statement with this argyle version.

DISSH

Iris Black Crew Knit Cardigan

This is a really chic outfit.

Leset

Pointelle Classic Cardigan Ii

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

DOEN

Petra Cardigan

If you're looking for a perfect cardigan to make a forever investment in, I'd recommend this Doen number.

&DAUGHTER

Wool Cardigan

Famously popular among fashion people, &Daughter's bold shades have won me over just as much as their classic neutrals.

Almada Label

Coco Brushed Cardigan

An elevated style that would work well for workwear and smarter dressing.

Sœur

Lyne Ecru Cardigan

The dream shade.

navygrey

The Easy Cardigan

Navygrey is another knitwear brand that insiders always turn to.

HERD

Fleetwood Cardigan in Moss With Ecru & Peat

Big fisherman-core energy.

TOAST

Eden Wool Cashmere Raglan Cardigan

The quality is beautiful at Toast, and you can always take pieces back for repair to extend their lifespan as well.

Miu Miu

Cashmere Knit Cardigan

Iconic, honestly.

DISSH Boutiques

Carmen Ivory Cable Knit Cardigan - Xxs / Ivory

This + jeans = my dream cosy autumn uniform.

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