I tend to have a real appreciation for things that go against my actual life experiences. For instance, I’m obsessed with varsity jackets but have never played a sport. I love tie-dye, but I didn’t grow up in the ’60s and I didn’t go to summer camp where I might have DIY’d a tee. And the latest object of my affection (and ultimately of my credit card statements): summer cardigans.
The style may have some prim-and-proper Doris Day vibes, but I think it’s so much more than one-note. There are the classic (albeit pricier) Prada and Gucci iterations, but I’ve also been all about the quirkier playful designs from French brand Rouje and Denmark’s Baum und Pferdgarten.
Of course, one of the biggest reasons I think this trend will live on for quite some time is that its styling opportunities are huge. A button-down sweater allows for it to be worn undone and loose, buttoned-up and tucked into high-waist bottoms like a shirt, and even tied around your shoulders as though you may be headed to the country club (I’ve never been a member of one of those, but this styling also sounds appealing to me).
In short: Summer is not really known for being a big outerwear season, but I’m getting into cardigans ASAP and carrying the style into the next few seasons too. If you’d like to do the same, shop some favorites below.
Two words: Feathery sleeves.Available in sizes IT 36 to IT 46.
Doesn’t get flirtier than these ruffles.Available in sizes FR 34 to FR 40.
A clean silhouette and the prettiest shade of yellow.Available in sizes XS to XL.
This high neck lets you button up or down as much as you like.Available in sizes 14 to 28.
A little bit of frill is just the perfect amount.Available in sizes XS to L.
BRB: Re-creating this color combination everywhere.Available in sizes IT 36 to IT 48.
A shorter sleeve and a wider weave are probably most practical for summer.Available in sizes XS to XL.
Flowers on cardigans? Not groundbreaking, but we still love ’em.Available in sizes 0 to 3.
Opt for an easy oversize fit.Available in sizes 14 to 24.
Less of a sweater, and more of a shirt.Available in sizes 42 to 46.
Sure, let’s welcome back neon while we’re at it.Available in sizes S to L.
A wrap silhouette gives ballerina vibes.Available in one size.
This autumnal color feels great this time of year too.Available in sizes XS to XL.
We’re always here for a classic Missoni stripe.Available in IT 38 to IT 46.
We’ll never tire of a polka dot.Available in sizes X to 4X.
Try it with a hint of a logo.Available in sizes S to M.
Or sparkle.Available in sizes XS to L.
This elongated style looks super cozy.Available in sizes XS to M.
Look for subtle details like a sleeve tie.Available in sizes XS to XL.
Go ahead and swap buttons for zippers.Available in sizes 0 to 14.
Up next: Take a look at Sasha Lane, Who What Wear’s June cover star and one of the brightest young stars in Hollywood and fashion.
