The best cardigans are one of the most essential transitional knitwear pieces to invest in, thanks to their inherent versatility and everyday ease. No matter the season, you can rely on them to pull an outfit together, whether acting as a standalone item or as an extra layer added into the mix.

Since we are shifting into a time of year when the leaves start to fall and the air is crisp, relying on chunky wools and cashmere sweaters are the smartest investments at the moment. From hefty cable knits to classic argyle and fair isle motifs, these more substantial cardigans are going to keep you warm, while looking extremely stylish. Some of our favorites include options from Khaite, Acne Studios, and Guest in Residence, and will be sure to see plenty of wear over the next few months—after all, we are just at the start of the season.

With the arrival of cooler mornings, it’s the ideal moment to refresh your wardrobe with cozy essentials and with a few styles inspired by the runway. Whether you are lusting after Stella McCartney’s slouchy ribbed-knit hoodie to style with a pair of low waisted jeans, Alaïa’s fitted funnel collar or Miu Miu’s classic argyle take, the fall 2025 runway is a great place to get inspired. Cardigans make the best backdrop for testing a color trend, too, so we’ve added in some of the pastel yellows, bright reds, and slime green we saw across shows like Gucci, Altuzarra, and Ralph Lauren, for a little mood-shifting goodness.

Below, find the 28 best cardigans for women to wear now and straight through winter.