Open Stitch Sweaters for Summer: Cool, Covered & Effortlessly Chic
When the temperatures climb, we all crave style solutions that feel as good as they look. Consider the open stitch sweater—a chic, breezy layer that offers the perfect blend of coverage and airflow. Whether you’re heading out for brunch or catching a sunset by the beach, these airy knits keep you comfortable while adding texture and visual interest to even the simplest summer outfit. If you’re looking to elevate your warm-weather wardrobe without sacrificing comfort, this might just be your new go-to layer.
Chic & breezy open stitch sweaters
Open stitch sweaters/tops were one of the biggest summer fashion trends I spotted in both Paris and London. And not just in the shops, but being worn in the streets by women of all ages. Whether you need something that accommodates fluctuating temperatures (hello, coastal breezes or a/c season 🥶) or just prefer some lightweight coverage, I’ve rounded up some styles you might like.
Long sleeve styles
V-neck cardigan – $89.50
This 100% cotton classic cardigan is available in 3 colors, sizes XX-Small to XX-Large. (And Plus)
You can style this casually as shown here, or dress it up. Tie over the shoulders when it warms up for a chic accent.
Peruvian organic cotton crew neck – $258
This gorgeous sweater has a relaxed fit, and is available in a bunch of colors, sizes XX-Small to 3X.
- Winters, this Blackberry is great for you! (Also Black and White)
- Summers and Blue Springs, take a look at Pale Sky.
- Springs & Autumns, Tamarillo is fun bright option, Branch is a good neutral.
Organic cotton-linen cardigan – $118
A relaxed take on a classic cardigan, this one is available in 3 colors, sizes XXS-XXL.
Autumns, this Vetiver color as well as Bamboo Shoot (in between Mustard & Pistachio in your palette) are good for you!
Linen blend boatneck sweater – $195
Winters (and some Springs), this Blue Lapis color is a good one for you. The boatneck style & interesting contrast stitch add effortless elegance to your summer outfits.
Open front cardigan – $79.99
This longer, open cardigan with fun texture is on sale, and available in sizes XS-4X.
Autumns, this looks close to your Kingfisher! The “Harvest Sun” (gold) color is also a good one for you.
Cotton pointelle sweater – $89.95
Coastal chic! This 100% cotton pointelle knit sweater is perfect for cool summer evenings. In 4 color options, Regular & Plus sizes.
(Springs, the Poppy is great for us too!)
Oversized linen sweater – $160
Relaxed but refined, this breezy linen sweater is available in 4 colors, sizes XXS-XXL (some colors sold out in some sizes).
Springs & Vibrant Autumns, take a look at this Blood Orange color!
Cotton crewneck rib detail cardigan – $148
The striped rib details give this relaxed cardigan a varsity vibe. This taupe color could work for Springs, Summers, and Autumns. Sizes XX-Small to X-Large.
Cotton blend crochet-effect sweater – $76.80
The contrast stitching at the edges is such a nice detail! In sizes X-Small to X-Large.
Diamond pattern cotton crewneck – $98
This lightweight crewneck is also available in pink, but I love this blue, which I think Summers, Blue Springs, and Blue Autumns could also wear. Sizes XS-XL.
Pattern play – $158
This one is definitely an outfit-maker! In a cotton blend, sizes Small to XX-Large.
Short sleeve styles
Cotton polo cardigan – $79
Looks cute as a top, or can be worn unbuttoned over another layer. This 100% cotton sweater is available in 6 colors, sizes XX-Small to XX-Large. (Though the website says true-to-size, the fit is very relaxed and I’d suggest sizing down.)
This pink (Sepia Rose) works for Summers and some Springs. Autumns, the Fired Brick is your Chestnut!
Cotton-linen sweater – $258
Yes, this one’s a bit spendy, but I’ve found rag & bone sweaters to be really well made and durable. I also love the simple shape with textural contrast between the sleeves and body, and the scallop detail at the collar and hems.
Cotton sweater vest – $69
Autumns, I think this is close to your Marine Navy! Four colors available, sizes XX-Small to XX-Large.
Knit cotton resort shirt – $108
If you prefer a neat and refined look, this open stitch top with a polo collar is worth look. In sizes XS-XL. Also available in a fun aqua stripe.
Elbow-sleeve sweater – $69.99
If you’re going to wear black in the summertime, an open stitch knit like this one lightens up the look. Sizes XS-XL.
Cotton blend v-neck top – $58
I love the pretty details on this crochet-effect top! This could definitely be a day-to-dinner piece.
In sizes XX-Small to XX-Large, also in two stripe options.
What to wear underneath
While I did see women of all ages in Paris and London wearing open stitch tops without a base layer, you may prefer a bit more coverage. A camisole, tank, or “muscle” tee can do the trick. If it’s really hot and humid where you are, try a linen knit. Otherwise, a ribbed cotton, or even lightweight silk jersey will keep you feeling cool & confident.
Shop base layers
Staying comfortable in the warmer months doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice style. With their airy texture and effortless elegance, open stitch sweaters offer the perfect blend of coverage and breathability. They’re an easy way to elevate even the simplest summer look. Which of these chic styles would you add to your wardrobe?
There’s still time…
If you aren’t sure what colors best suit you, a Personal Color Analysis is the best way to find those shades that make you glow! We still have a couple of spots available for this weekend’s Red Leopard Color Event in Los Angeles. Manina from Red Leopard will be here, as well as Tarra Rosenbaum with some of her gorgeous jewelry. If you’re interested, email me at [email protected] and I’ll send you a link to reserve your spot. Hope to see you there!
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I love so many of these open-stitch tops, but they are all a tad too short for my long torso. even though I’m a petite, I need a length of close to 23″ or so on my tops…..even for high-waisted bottoms……so frustrating!
Hi, Susan! I am delighted to see these. I have several that are literally decades old, but have not been stylish or worn every year, so they are still in good shape. I agree with Adele that a longer length is needed for some of us, which is another reason why I hold on to the ones I have: A Ralph Lauren 3/4 sleeve top; an alpaca hand-crocheted cardigan with wooden buttons from a boutique in Montreal(late fall/winter in Florida), 2 Macy’s Charter House cardigans, and true confessions, a lovely long, thigh length, button front swim coverup from Victoria’s Secret that was originally a set with a matching crochet bikini (hahaha–those days are gone for me, but I kept the coverup) made in a lovely unbleached organic cotton (saw it in a window in a mall and went in and bought it). All things now seem to be that cropped length which does not flatter me. They look great on you, though, Susan.
I just bought a pattern and yarn to crochet myself one! I’m an experienced crocheter, but clothing can be tricky, so let’s hope it fits me when it’s done.
I am having difficulties with such sweaters. Nice but they are not for me.
Greetje
I have several such tops with various weaves. I mainly wear them over tanks b/c they cover upper arm imperfections without adding too much warmth. Years ago, I had a very open, thigh length sweater that made a great beach coverup. Now I like not just white, but tanks etc. in the same colorway as the sweater.
Susan
I loved this post. I have been working on a post of the same name! Open weave sweaters are so great for women my age because they provide coverage without the heat! You shared so many great options!
Thanks, cindy!