It's a fact: French women are exchanging their red cardigans for this trending staple knit.

      We don't want to boast, but when it comes to interpreting French style, Who What Wear UK truly excels. Years of dedicated street-style browsing, observing people at Paris Fashion Week, and an almost obsessive interest in how French women style the basics to appear deliberate have refined our perspective. We're well-acquainted with the formulas they use, and we understand that their version of effortless style is anything but serendipitous, including their cardigan preferences. Previously, this often meant the red cardigan, worn buttoned up with jeans, casually draped over shoulders, or layered beneath a coat as if it belonged there. However, recently, our feeds have been guiding us toward a fresh direction. The recognizable burst of red has subtly made way for something a bit more subdued.

      In recent months, I've observed Parisian women embracing a gentler, quieter knit—grey. In various shades and textures, styled in an unmistakably relaxed manner. While color hasn’t disappeared, there is a distinct movement towards pieces that are easier to wear on a daily basis. Grey conveniently meets all the criteria. It pairs effortlessly with denim, tailoring, and sneakers without altering the outfit's mood, and it never demands to be the focal point. Instead, it serves as a backdrop that allows other elements to stand out, which likely explains its sudden prevalence.

      It's also important to mention that there's no single dominant style of grey cardigan at the moment. I've noticed oversized knits worn as outerwear, tailored buttoned-up styles used as tops, cropped versions paired with high-waisted jeans, and classic V-necks layered under jackets. Below are 13 grey cardigans I've saved, screenshotted, or shared in my group chat—the ones that particularly resonate if you’re aiming for that French-inspired way of dressing.

      Shop Grey Cardigans:

      **JENNI KAYNE**

      Cooper Round-Neck Wool and Cashmere Cardigan

      Excellent quality designed for longevity. This is the type of knit you invest in once and wear for years, especially if you prefer a fully buttoned look.

      **Sezane**

      Gaspard Cardigan - Mottled Grey - Super Kid Mohair

      This one needs little introduction. I've spotted variations of this throughout Paris, usually buttoned up with vintage jeans. The wool-mohair blend offers a soft, slightly fuzzy finish that improves with wear.

      **KHAITE**

      Everheart Cashmere Cardigan

      Khaite excels at crafting the perfect cardigan. This one has a refined fit without feeling too precious, and the buttons enhance even the simplest outfit. I love pairing it with straight-leg jeans and flats.

      **COS**

      Cashmere V-Neck Cardigan

      The fabric feels substantial, and COS sizing is consistently generous without being too big.

      **Uniqlo**

      100% Cashmere Crew Neck Short Cardigan

      I will always sing the praises of Uniqlo cashmere.

      **Toteme**

      Raglan-Sleeve Cashmere Cardigan Grey Melange

      This cardigan instantly adds a mature touch to any outfit. The cut is sleek, the color is ideal, and the added collar perfectly completes it.

      **Reformation**

      Clara Cashmere Crew Cardigan

      Soft yet sturdy, designed to be worn as a top. The slightly cropped length pairs nicely with high-waisted jeans.

      **M&S**

      Air-Yarn Crew Neck Short Cardigan

      A reminder that great basics don’t have to be complex.

      **& Other Stories**

      Merino Wool Wrap Cardigan

      This wrap style embodies a certain French simplicity.

      **MANGO**

      Knitted Button Cardigan - Women

      The matching grey buttons were what convinced me to add this to my list.

      **ZARA**

      Knit Cardigan With Ruffle Trims

      Ideal if you're looking for something a bit more elegant.

      Dark grey might be my absolute favorite from this selection.

      **CITIZENS OF HUMANITY**

      Tabitha Ribbed Wool and Cashmere-Blend Cardigan

      The short sleeves make this perfect for transitioning into Spring.