This Was The Most Sought-After Cardigan Of 2024 — And It Will Instantly Elevate Any Outfit

Just as refined as your favourite knitted classics, red cardigans are perfect for adding a little flavour to your winter wardrobe.

Knitwear is the obvious star for the coldest months of the year, so naturally, designers keep coming up with new, unexpected ways to play with knits (cue the scarf jumpers and bow cardigans). However, the less experimental amongst us can take solace in the fact that classic knitted staples with subtle twists are still the most triumphant. Take, for example, the fiery red cardigan that has been gaining traction with the fashion set both online and IRL.

Amidst the greys and blacks that usually populate winter wardrobes, a host of stylish insiders including celebs such as Kendall Jenner and Alexa Chung, influencers and even Kristen Bell's stylish character in 'Nobody Wants This' have all been making a case for striking red knitwear for a few seasons now. For AW25, the trend has reached fever pitch with red cardigans featuring across an array of luxury as well as high street brand collections.

Not only did the Ada cardigan land on the Lyst Index, but it's also made from responsibly sourced yarns in the UK making it chic and sustainable. Win-win.

As with any trendy piece of knitwear, you'll find several great red cardigans on the luxury end of the spectrum (Chloé's rib-knit wool cardigan is the chicest option we've seen this season), but if you're not keen on a cardigan that demands a splurge, the good news is that the high street boasts an array of designs that are just as cosy and chic. Namely, & Other Stories' Boxy Crew-Neck Cardigan, which offers warmth thanks to its merino wool-blend construction and comes at a fraction of the price as the Ada cardigan.

Crafted for a universally flattering boxy fit, this & Other Stories Cardigan is the perfect throw-over-everything piece to invest in for AW25.

Elsewhere H&M's fine-knit cardigan is finished with gold buttons for a dressier touch while Nobody's Child offers a textured design that is every bit the statement piece. Whether you're looking for a red cardigan to add to your daily jeans, classic tee and wool coat rotation or hoping to add some colour to your winter palette with one draped around your shoulders, scroll ahead for our edit of the best red cardigans to shop now.

H&M's fine-knit cardigan offers polished Chanel vibes without the hefty price tag. Style with tailored trousers and a wool coat for a refined look.

Nobody's Child is renowned for its contemporary take on minimalist basics. Case in point, this cable knit cardigan. While it'll pair well with most outfits, we'd suggest leaning into the preppy vibe with an Oxford shirt and loafers.

Somewhere between a cardigan and a utility jacket, Zara's structured design is perfect for autumn/winter and will pair well with jeans, maxi dresses and satin skirts alike.

Ribbed, slightly cropped and perfectly tailored for a slim fit. This Aligne cardigan is so much like Chloé's elegant design that it's difficult to believe it's under £100.

If you're after a red cardigan with a hint of luxury, add Chinti & Parker's cashmere-blend design to cart immediately.

With a cropped fit and slightly fuzzy finish, the Clara jumper is very similar to the design Kristen Bell sports in Nobody Wants This. Style with high waisted jeans and trainers for a casual look or take your cues from Bell with a matching satin skirt and kitten heels for date night.

A certified cult-favourite beloved by fashion editors and influencers alike, you really can't go wrong with this Sézane cardigan's elegant Parisian flair.

Main image credits: ©Instagram/ @tanyaburr @elainadbellis