You'd be forgiven for thinking that knits are the fodder of winter months (woolly, comforting pieces are synonymous with dark evenings and arctic winds, after all). However, this season has seen the style crowd develop a full-blown love affair with the summer knit. Yes, it might sound like an oxymoron or a misguided option of a morning's getting-ready routine, but this cross-species intermingling has created a hybrid of elegant dresses, tank tops and skirts—all instantly elevated when rendered in a fine knit.
There's something very French Riviera about this trend; it's as if these pieces were destined to be worn by chic older ladies wearing big hats and oversized sunnies. That may be true, but we've also seen our regular style gurus experimenting with summer knitwear in a variety of guises. Camille Charriere paired a white knitted vest with a polka-dot skirt and heels to keep things from looking too bohemian, while Jeanne Damas brought out the vintage feels with a yellow button-down top tucked into high-waisted trousers—actually quite perfect for summer in any European city.
The knitted dress is another stylish way to try the idea, with bloggers such as Pernille Teisbaek and Bethany Elstone embracing neutral, ankle-grazing styles. On that note, it's important to get the right fit with this look. Also, opting for a ribbed knit or wrap-around style are good ways to ensure some shape is retained. We love Arket's knitted wrap dress, which cinches in the middle for a flattering fit (all it needs is a pair of pointed kitten heels and statement gold earrings).
Need some more inspiration? Scroll down to discover how our favourite fashion insiders styled the trend and shop our edit of the best knitted pieces.
Style Notes: Camille Charriere keeps it simple with an elegant knitted tank top and polka-dot skirt. Very Parisienne.
Style Notes: Jeanne Damas is the epitome of city chic with a yellow knitted top and high-waisted trousers.
Style Notes: If you're worried about flashing too much skin, take a leaf from Bethany Elstone's book and wear one with a T-shirt layered underneath.
Related: I Swear This Summer Trend Just Keeps Getting Better and Better
Style Notes: White polo-neck knitted top plus white denim mini equals warm-weather perfection.
Style Notes: A knitted co-ord is another easy way to try the trend. Keep it tonal for extra style kudos.
Style Notes: Maria Bernad shows us how it's done with a barely there knitted cardi.
Shop the Look
Related: The Curveball High-Street Store I'm Buying All My Summer Shoes From
Next, see eight items that are a dead giveaway you're a fashion expert.