As the final countdown to New Year's Eve begins, fashion-conscious Brits are embracing a cosy yet chic knitwear trend that promises style without sacrificing warmth. The bow cardigan has emerged as the standout piece for party season, offering a romantic and polished alternative to sequinned dresses and glittery tops.
The Rise of the Romantic Knit
This season's must-have item taps directly into the enduring popularity of coquette and balletcore aesthetics. Characterised by soft, feminine details, the bow-adorned cardigan brings a touch of romance to evening outfits. The trend has been spotted on style influencers and celebrities, often styled with straight-leg jeans, mini skirts, or layered over slip dresses for an effortless, thrown-together look that feels both intentional and comfortable.
Unlike much traditional partywear, these statement knits are designed for longevity. Fashion fans are likely to reach for them long after the midnight fireworks fade, making them a versatile and worthwhile addition to any winter wardrobe. Major high street retailers including Next, Roman Originals, H&M, and Debenhams have all released their own interpretations, with prices starting from around £32.99.
Top Picks for a Stylish Celebration
We've curated a selection of the best bow cardigans available now to elevate your NYE outfit. Whether you're heading for cocktails, a dinner party, or a night out, these pieces offer an easy route to looking dressed up.
Next Ecru Knitted Velvet Bow Cardigan - £38
This eye-catching design from Next features multiple black velvet bows set against a creamy ecru background. The brushed finish ensures a super-cosy feel, perfect for winter nights. Reviews praise its style and accuracy to the product images, though one shopper noted the bows are sewn under the sleeve rather than on top.
Roman Originals Black Bow Embellished Knit Cardigan - £40
Roman Originals offers a modern twist with rope-style bow detailing. Shoppers report it is soft, cosy, and features beautiful sparkly bows. It's advised to size down, and care should be taken as the polyester fabric may pill over time if not washed carefully.
Debenhams Crew Neck Knit Cardigan - £69.01 (from £136.99)
In a festive burgundy hue, this Debenhams cardigan features delicate ribbon bows for a sophisticated party vibe. Its crew neck and relaxed fit make it easy to layer. It requires a gentle, cold wash and is currently available at a significant 50% discount.
H&M Bow-detail Cardigan - £32.99
H&M's contribution is a classic cream cardigan elevated with a soft silk bow at the collar and shimmering silver buttons. Early reviews suggest it is true to size with an ideal length for pairing with high-waisted trousers or skirts.
How to Style Your Bow Cardigan for NYE
The beauty of this trend lies in its versatility. For a smart-casual drinks outing, pair a cropped or fitted style with tailored trousers and heels. A satin midi skirt creates an elegant dinner-ready ensemble, while layering over a slip dress instantly dresses up the look for more formal festivities. The key is to let the cardigan be the statement piece, keeping other elements relatively simple.
As we approach New Year's Eve, the bow cardigan stands out as the perfect fusion of fashion and function. It delivers on the promise of looking chic while staying warm, ensuring you ring in 2026 in effortless style.
