It's getting hot in here but this summer, we're not takin' off all our clothes. I mean—not always (teehee). Yes, 'tis the season for tanks, halter-neck tops, bralettes, bandeaus, bikinis, and so. Much! More! But it's also time for the *drumroll, please* summer sweater! Stay with me here, will ya?
If you just envisioned yourself in a thick, wool, turtleneck sweater and shorts, you've got the vibe all wrong! Summer sweaters are so perf for throwing on after a swim, taking in the sunset, and even fighting the office chill. In this roundup, we've got vests, open-knit options, pullover styles, cardigans, tanks, and even bustier tops. The key part to mention is that these sweaters are made of the airiest and coziest cotton, mixed materials, and knits—so essentially, they are lightweight (and v stylish) tops that won't stress you out and cause you to sweat buckets. Find the best of the best, ahead!
Our top picks for the best summer sweaters of 2023:
this flute sleeve sweater
Nasty Gal Nasty Gal Premium Gauzy Wool Flute Sleeve Sweater
After adding a summer sweater to your "must buy" list, you should definitely revamp your wardrobe with a couple of linen tops, summer shorts, and sundresses while you're at it! This'll be your chillest summer yet.
this flute sleeve sweater
Nasty Gal Nasty Gal Premium Gauzy Wool Flute Sleeve Sweater
this flute sleeve sweater
Nasty Gal Nasty Gal Premium Gauzy Wool Flute Sleeve Sweater
Rave Review: "This mesh sweater polo was exactly what I was expecting. Breezy & stylish. The short sleeve polo works well in the warmer temps. Love the amber color because it transitions perfectly into the fall. I will be on the lookout for other mesh items."
this office pick
Love Bonito Love Bonito Aleali Knit Button Up Sweater
this office pick
Love Bonito Love Bonito Aleali Knit Button Up Sweater
Rave Review: This is the perf summer sweater! It has a very sweet retro vibe yet it’s neutral and goes with everything. The knit feels very strong and sturdy, not “delicate” and hopefully not prone to snagging. It looks good over dresses and with jeans! The color is a “cooler” neutral with ashy undertones. I love how it’s unique and not like every other cardigan you see being worn!"
this tie-front style
LA Hearts LA Hearts Beach Vibes Tie Front Cardigan
this tie-front style
LA Hearts LA Hearts Beach Vibes Tie Front Cardigan
Rave Review: "The thick cotton material has kept me warm on cool spring days but not too warm like a wool sweater. It's got an '80s vibe but even cooler. It's cropped but not too short. The length hits just at the top of hip, just perfect for petite frame. I LOVE this cardigan so much that I bought in other colors."
Tarah-Lynn Saint-Elien is the fashion editor at Cosmopolitan, writing weighty and witty stories that run the gamut of gushing over Zendaya to convincing you of everything you need in your closet! She began her journey in the industry with a fashion and faith blog and an internship at Elle.com almost 10 years ago. Since then, she's also served as the style editor at The Haitian Times. The Haitian-American pageant queen is a Syracuse Masters graduate and the author of two books, including: Claim Your Crown. Follow her on Instagram and Twitter: @iamtarahlynn.