From Paris to London, Everyone With Taste Is Wearing This One Wardrobe Staple

If there's one wardrobe item I've learned not to underestimate, it's a red cardigan. I'm not usually one for policing personal style—if anything, I'm very much in the "wear what you love, ignore the noise" camp—but even I, a committed neutral dresser who lives in black, grey, white and the occasional navy, have quietly succumbed to the pull of a scarlet knit. It crept in slowly at first, spotted on French women who were tying one over their shoulders, then again on the runways, then suddenly in my own wardrobe, worn far more often than I ever expected. And judging by how often I see them on my feed, I know I'm not alone.

There's something about a red cardigan that feels both familiar and exciting. It's not a trending piece in the throwaway sense, but it does have the power to completely alter an outfit. I think that's why red-cardigan outfits have become such a reliable fashion editor shortcut; they add interest without requiring a full rethink of your wardrobe. Throw one over pieces you already own, whether jeans, skirts or tailoring, and suddenly everything looks chicer.

I'd go as far as to say the ongoing obsession with the French-girl aesthetic has played a major role here. For years now, we've been collectively trying to crack that elusive formula of looking put-together without appearing overdone, and the red cardigan has long been part of that visual language. Worn buttoned-up as a top, slung over the shoulders or layered under a coat, it's a staple that Parisian women seem to instinctively understand. It's not loud, but it's not shy either, and that confidence is exactly what makes red-cardigan outfits so appealing.

Practicality helps, too. At this time of year, especially, when the calendar fills up with festive dinners, parties and everything in between, a crimson knit just makes sense. It's red—so it already does half the work for you. All it needs is the right supporting cast: a good shoe, a strong accessory, perhaps a contrasting texture. I can think of so many occasions where a ruby-toned cardigan feels just right, from evening plans to casual weekends, without tipping into try-hard territory.

The runways certainly backed this up. At the autumn/winter 2025 shows, designers leaned into knitwear as a styling tool rather than an afterthought. We saw richly coloured cardigans at brands like Miu Miu and Prada, often worn buttoned-up with sleek skirts or layered under sharp outerwear, whilst more relaxed iterations appeared at the likes of Loewe, styled with denim and flats in a way that felt very now. What I liked most was how wearable it all felt—proof that red-cardigan outfits aren't just a street-style phenomenon but something designers are actively investing in.

Below, I've broken down four red-cardigan outfits I keep coming back to, along with the pieces I'd actually shop to re-create them. Enjoy!

4 Chic Red-Cardigan Outfits to Re-Create:

1. Red Cardigan + Silk Skirt + Gold Jewellery

Style Notes: This is one of those red-cardigan outfits that feels deceptively simple but always gets compliments. The softness of a silk skirt offsets the structure of a fine-knit cardigan, whilst gold jewellery adds warmth without overpowering the look. I love how Julie Sergent Ferreri has worn her cardigan half-buttoned up (pictured above). Just add some heels, and you're good for any festive party.

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2. Red Cardigan + White Trousers + Animal-Print Heels

Style Notes: If you want a red-cardigan outfit to feel fresh rather than classic, this is the route I'd suggest. Crisp white trousers give the colour space to shine, whilst animal-print heels add personality without turning the look into a novelty.

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3. Red Cardigan + Leather Blazer + Black Jeans + Loafers

Style Notes: This is one of the more directional red-cardigan outfits, and one I've also been dipping my toes into a lot recently (I'm still trying to shake my all black-and-white outfit personality). I love how the leather blazer adds weight and texture, making the cardigan feel sharper rather than sweet.

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4. Red Cardigan + Red Dress + Slingbacks

Style Notes: Doubling up on red might sound intimidating, but it's one of the most impactful looks when done right. Keep the tones close and the silhouette simple, and let the colour do the work. Play with fabrics and texture to create some contrast, or opt for a two-piece set if you like the matchy-matchy vibe. Though this may seem like an obvious party look, with the right shoes and accessories it work just as well for the day too.

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