Forget lace lingerie, the unassuming cardigan is being hailed as the sexiest item of 2026.
The shift in fashion focus comes as a surprise to many, but signals a broader trend towards comfort and understated elegance. While traditionally seen as a practical and modest garment, the cardigan is undergoing a transformation, appearing in modern designs with unique patterns and solid colors. H&M offers options ranging from cozy maxi-cardigans for at-home wear to short-sleeve and tie-front styles for warmer weather.
Retailers are seeing increased demand for cardigans, with Amazon and Nordstrom Rack both featuring extensive selections. This resurgence positions the cardigan as a key piece for the coming year, potentially influencing broader style trends and challenging conventional notions of what constitutes “sexy” apparel. The trend highlights a growing consumer preference for versatile and comfortable clothing options.
