The elusive hunt for the perfect black cardigan

[Thurlow]

You know when you know what you want, but you can't find it anywhere?

I want a short, three quarter sleeved plain black cardigan that isn't particularly thick or particularly expensive. Most cardigans with long sleeves or thick material just end up looking quite frumpy, as I'm short. I've managed to get them in so many other colours - but why is black so difficult to find?

Has anyone seen anything decent?

Not sure about the three quarter sleeves, but have you tried Woolovers? Very good quality and reasonable prices.

I got similar last year from H&M! Has lasted surprisingly well

www.lkbennett.com/Collections/Clothing/Knitwear/Bonnie-Merino-Cardigan/p/CDBONNIEMERINOBlackBlack?nv=

Sorry, it is expensive. I missed that.

I got a lovely one from Matalan a couple of weeks ago, it certainly wasn't expensive.

Look for merino wool, it makes for a fine knit, and is machine washable. Might be £20-£30 but on a cosy per wear it's great value. Try House of Fraser or Uniqlo.

Gap merino 25 - a steal but not sure on sleeve length
Linea house of fraser 45 (slimmer cut so more flattering on me).. pretty sure it's 3/4 sleeves

Both are warm but not bulky

Agree with chippy - my merino cardis last years looking new, others get old looking

Uniqlo have a merino one for about £25. I bought one this week - very pleased with it.

Woolovers cropped cardigan in merino and cashmere mix should fit the bill.

Boden cropped cardigans are worth a look too as they fit petites well without being too short and they are usually 3/4 sleeve.

Blondie, all my other cardigans are H&M or Dorothy Perkins they are reasonably thin but do wash really well.

I can deal without three quarter sleeves if it's thin enough to push up to my elbows without looking too bulky - and that Woolover one looks fantastic, thank you! £40 is ok if it's the right cardigan and is going to last for a while.

I think I can nip to Uniqlo - I always forget about them - so will try theirs, and if that doesn't suit I'll try the Woolover one.

M&s usually have one in whatever their smart casuals work section is called

I've been really impressed with a black one i bought in Zara this time last year. I wear it 2-3 times each week and its washed brilliantly! Crew neck, 3/4 sleeves, smart enough for work and fine for home too! Was cheap too though i can't remember how much.

Just been in Gap today there merino wool ones are on offer at £25! I'm thinking I will probably go back and get one. Really liked the feel and quality of them, not bulky fine quality knit.

George had some nice cotton cardies yesterday when I was looking.

I'm always looking for a black cardi. Lovely thought the lk Bennett one is. The price.....!

I have a Primark cropped elbow sleeve one that I love. It's a year old and washed perfectly. No buttons, it just hangs nicely. I have the same cardigan in pale pink and bright green and they're all a great shape. I bet I'll never find a replacement, though.

Also recommend Woolovers merino and cashmere mix cropped cardigan. I was looking for exactly as you describe and that is it! About 35 pounds.