I’m Convinced These 9 Cardigans Are the Secret to Looking Expensive This Fall

I’m a firm believer that not every cardigan needs to look like something your grandmother would wear to Sunday brunch. Case in point: This $80 Zara number, which is giving more fashion editor running between shows than cozy night on the couch. The dramatic high neck is what initially caught my attention (funnel necks are having a serious moment, after all), but the dropped shoulders, relaxed silhouette and two-way zipper really seal the deal. Try unzipping it slightly at the bottom to show off a great belt or create a little shape.

This ladylike layer works whether you’re headed to the office or running errands around town. Made from 100 percent cotton, it features a boxy, hip-length silhouette and textured knit that resembles tweed (how very Chanel!). It's polished, sophisticated and available in a ton of colors. Throw in that price tag, and it's really hard to resist. 

Quince’s Mongolian cashmere sweater has been tested and approved by our PureWow editors, with Senior Editor Dana Dickey writing in her review, “For such a delicate item as a cashmere sweater, I was able to tie it around my waist during a hot afternoon, and then when I went to put it on again, it wasn’t stretched out,” which proves it is just as durable as it is stylish.

Can we get a round of applause for this bow cardigan, please? It’s super cute, first and foremost, but I especially love its loose construction and breathability. Grab your favorite pair of jeans and some pumps, and you'll be all set for a fashionable night out on the town. While I adore this trendy green hue, it comes in over a dozen other fall-friendly shades, so I'd suggest doubling or tripling up.

This crew neck cardigan has all the makings of an everyday favorite: a classic crew neckline, button-front closure and a semi-fitted silhouette that looks just as good with jeans as it does draped over your shoulders. The fabric is designed to feel as soft as cashmere without the hefty price tag. I especially love the leopard-print version, which adds a little personality. I also adore that the leopard version is made from 100 percent cotton.

Hourglass jackets are totally *in,* according to our editors, and this one from Quince meets the mark beautifully with its structured fit, tailored design and super soft texture. One buyer writes, “I’m very impressed with the quality and style of this sweater. I can’t wait to wear it! I love how it has some shape to it, and if that isn’t enough, it comes in five versatile hues.

If the playful ruffle collar doesn't win you over, then the amazing quality should do it. “This is a beautiful, soft, feminine sweater. I have received many compliments. I wear it with dresses or jeans. This sweater is not bulky or thick, but it is warm. It fits at my waist,” raves one shopper. It's made of a blend of acrylic, polyester and elastane (so it has some give), and while it's easily layerable, you can also totally button it up to wear it as a top on its own. 

Is $358 a lot to spend on a cardigan? Absolutely. Am I prepared to make a very convincing argument for this one? Also yes. Buck Mason has managed to make the cardigan feel impossibly cool with this 100 percent cashmere number. Between the cable-knit detailing, fitted silhouette and slightly retro collar, it gives understated luxury that makes people assume you have excellent taste (and possibly a house in the Hamptons). I especially love the rich basalt color, which is a refreshing alternative to the usual black and gray. And unlike some chunky knits that make layering a logistical nightmare, this one is slim enough to slip under a coat.

In case you haven’t gotten the memo, red is the color of fall ‘26. Burgundy has had a very respectable run, but we’re ready for something with a little more personality. Enter Reformation’s Bloom Cashmere V-Neck Cardigan in Lipstick, a punchy shade of red in a slim-fitting silhouette, V-neckline and delicate buttons. And because it’s made from 100 percent cashmere (95 percent recycled), it’s just as luxurious as it looks. My styling advice? Skip the obvious black pants and pair it with chocolate-brown trousers, dark-wash denim or even a leopard-print skirt.