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, a light cardigan is arguably an essential part of spring dressing. If you’d asked me a few years ago, however, I wouldn't have agreed with that sentiment. As a 26-year-old fashion writer, 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 my mind, vivid images of my 87-year-old grandmother's favourite moth-bitten argyle number are the first thing that comes to mind.
But as we well know, fashion moves in cycles, and the humble cardigan has recently had something of a rebrand. Currently trending styles are decidedly chicer, balancing timelessness with modern reinterpretations. And this spring, it's impossible to miss the vibrant cropped cashmere, cool funnel necks or super-polished waisted cardigans on the most elevated dressers. As it happens, many of the most expensive-looking iterations come from high-street favourite H&M.
Jessica Faye wears the H&M Waisted Cardigan (£33).
A one-stop shop of sophisticated buys, the spring cardigans on offer at H&M are some of this season's very best. With a general mood of luxurious shapes, timeless colourways and delicate details (be it softly structured shoulders to add shape or a double-layered placket for a seamless, buttonless finish), every option has that über-luxe appeal we're always searching for when shopping the high street.
With a coffee in hand and cardigans on the brain, I uncovered nine gems worth a look. So, whether you’re after a cropped cashmere style to offset your current rotation of jeans and nice tees, or a fluffy mohair-blend perfect for those chillier spring days, I’ve got you covered. Scroll down to discover the best.
1. Rib-Knit Cardigan
If you still long for that timeless Khaite cardigan but the price is just a tad out of reach, look no further. This waisted, softly structured cardigan looks far more expensive than its £33 price tag.
2. Cashmere Cardigan
Part of the brand's most recent Studio Collection, this 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, it's 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 everyday jeans.
5. Cable-Knit Cardigan
The delicate buttons stop this cable-knit cardi from looking too chunky.
6. Short-Sleeved Cardigan
With gentle ribbing around the neck and trims, this short-sleeved cardigan is perfect for in-between spring weather.
7. Zip-Through Cardigan
The practical grandma-coded zip-through cardigan has quickly become a style we're seeing everywhere. Just look at this vibrant shade of red.
8. Fitted Cardigan
Sleek and sophisticated, this fitted cardigan has a bodycon fit for a smooth silhouette.
9. Crochet Cardigan
Leaning into the underwear-as-outerwear look, this soft crochet knit leans into French design and exposes just enough skin.
Shop More H&M Cardigans I Love:
This is a shade of tomato red I haven't seen much of, and I love it.
The off-the-shoulder cut is so chic.
Add a touch of colour to your look with this sunny butter yellow.
This is exactly how I'll be dressing this spring.
With a 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.
You can never go wrong with a simple stripe.
Oversized and snuggly, this is the perfect cardigan to lounge around the house in.
Shop the matching Fine-Knit Trousers(£33).
Layer underneath a white tee and top with a trench coat for a polished everyday 'fit this spring.
