We've officially entered summer holiday szn, meaning we're either planning, packing for, or dreaming about an upcoming summer getaway. Whether you're jet-setting to far-off shores or planning on sticking closer to home and making the most of the Great British coastline (fingers crossed the weather plays ball!), one item should be on your packing list: a crochet cardigan.
Consider this the seasonal update to the chunky knit cardigan you lived in all winter long. From a practical point of view, a crochet cardigan is lightweight enough to wear in the summer sun while versatile enough to navigate any change in the forecast. Similarly, it effortlessly transitions from day to night; the intricate design easily dressed up with tailoring and accessories as well as being interesting enough to elevate even the simplest outfits. Thought summer layering was far from straightforward? Guess again.
Of course, we're talking specifically about modern interpretations of crochet. One look at the spring/summer 2026 runways confirms the crafty construction has evolved from beachy, boho festival-wear into a verified high-fashion summer staple. It's less about the retro charm of the ‘70s, instead offering a chic bohemian aesthetic that has a more minimalist feel. In other words, avoid multicoloured patchwork designs in favour of pieces that possess a sleek, polished finish.
See Chanel's 2026 Resort show, which paired a chunky crochet cardigan with a structured pencil skirt in the same knotted yarn, the fabrication technique totally changing the read of the entire skirt suit ensemble, a favourite silhouette of the French fashion house. Even Balmain's SS26 collection, featuring a more rustic look with open-weave head-to-toe crochet, ensured the overwhelming feel was expensive.
Naturally, the high street has followed suit, delivering on the key sartorial style points with much more purse-friendly price tags. See Marks & Spencer's Cotton Blend Crochet-Style Collared Cardigan that comes complete with co-ordinating for Cotton Blend Knitted Beach Shorts for the cutest summer holiday ensemble. The on-trend chilli red colourway secures extra style points – not that it needs it.
Throw it on over a tankini and with rope sandals when you're headed to the pool, then switch your footwear for a pair of kitten heel flip-flop sandals and statement earrings for a beach-side dinner. Add a tank top or long-sleeve top underneath should you want a more insulating finish.
M&S Cotton Blend Crochet-Style Collared Cardigan
Below, find more of our favourite crochet cardigans available to shop now:
Mango Scalloped Openwork Knit Cardigan
Whistles Ivory Crochet Detail Cardigan
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Alexandria Dale is the Digital Fashion Writer at Cosmopolitan UK. Covering everything from the celebrity style moments worth knowing about to the latest fashion news, there’s nothing she loves more than finding a high street dupe of a must-have designer item. As well as discovering new brands, she’s passionate about sustainable fashion and establishing the trends that are actually worth investing in. Having worked in fashion journalism for six years, she has experience at both digital and print publications including Glamour and Ok!
