Spring is in the air and whilst we're not exactly into bare-shoulder territory just yet, it's pretty much time to pack away the trusty 'big coat'. Instead, consider something a little lighter and brighter to take its place. Enter: the French Girl cardigan. Forget chunky oversized styles, this season is all about classic crew neck in a fine knit, that buttons up to the collar and the best part, it's probably already in your wardrobe.
Shoulder-scaping has taken over – look around and you'll easily spot chic-looking women with a sweater draped nonchalantly across the shoulders. If anything, at the moment it's almost more common to see knitwear worn knotted around a neck than actually worn in the usual way - and we're always all about a multi-tasking accessory.
If your outfit is looking a little dull, an easy way of adding a pop of colour is to sling a cashmere cardi round your shoulders to instantly add a sartorial splash. Think pillar-box red, cherry-blossom pink or grass-green for the summer season and chic navy as the shade to keep forever.
Your first point of call for cardigan cool? Dôen, usually synonymous with summery frocks and prairie dresses (note Kylie Jenner's summer-style renaissance of 2023). But you can't overlook Dôen's knitwear collection, aka the perfect spring-time cardigan. Elsewhere, knitwear connoisseurs &Daughter's cardigans come A-list approved. Alexa Chung is a firm fan of the Ada crewneck cardigan in a joyous shade of springy green worn with blue jeans and camel coat. Hit the high-street for purse-friendly alternatives; Marks & Spencer is our go-to for more affordable cashmere, whilst Massimo Dutti has nailed the classic crew neck in indigo blue.
Shop: The Best French Girl Cardigans To Wear Now
Editors Pick
www.and-daughter.com
Description
The perfect shade of pillar-box red will instantly lift the most simple of outfits. Take note from the street style set and wear draped across the shoulders for a fashion forward take.
www.shopdoen.com
Description
An Instagram favourite, this ultra fine knit can be worn everywhere and anywhere - even as a seaside cover-up, who knew?
www.marksandspencer.com
Description
Look to high-street hero Marks & Spencer's for great value pure cashmere knitwear - this classic style is available in 9 different tones but we love this spring time shade of pink.
Under £35
www.uniqlo.com
Description
You can't beat classic navy knitwear - Uniqlo's 100% merino wool, £34.90 offering is a great affordable option and comes in 9 amazing colourways.
www.and-daughter.com
Description
A favourite of the A-list, this grass green shade is perfect for spring/summer 2024.
www.net-a-porter.com
Description
A supersoft Alpaca wool blend in cornflower blue, wear with cream jeans and a simple t-shirt for the ultimate french girl outfit.
Under £80
www.massimodutti.com
Description
A vibrant take on classic navy, you'll wear this indigo blue cardigan by Massimo Dutti on repeat - guaranteed.
What to wear with a cardigan
The great thing about a cardi, is that it goes with everything from joggers and jeans, to workwear and summer dresses - you can even take as your wedding guest outfit coverup to banish the night time chill. For casual comfort, wear yours with track pants a white tank top and baseball cap. Off out for the evening, pair your LBD with a cashmere crew neck cardigan for a chic and smart ensamble worn over the shoulders or buttoned up.
