Sweaters to Knit for the Summer

Summer is a time for sunshine, warm weather, and outdoor activities. That doesn’t mean you can’t knit summer garments.  Depending on where you live, summer temperature might drop to downright chilly.  Or like me, you may just be uncomfortable in the over-air conditioned indoor world of summer.  For those times you need a straight up summer sweater.  Heck, I need a parka for most grocery stores,, but that’s just me.  Most of us need at least one solid go-to summer sweater.  But that’s not the only kind of summer garments you can knit.  There are all manner of summer tops, from this season’s trendy bralette to summer tanks, tees, and easy fitting layers.  When it comes to knitting summer sweaters, there are a few things to consider. Let’s dive in.  

Lightweight Fabrics are the Key to Summer Sweaters

When knitting a summer sweater, the first thing to consider is the fabric. It's essential to choose lightweight, breathable materials like cotton, linen, and lightweight wool blends.. These materials will keep you cool and comfortable, even on the hottest days. Cotton is a popular choice for summer sweaters because it's soft, absorbent, and easy to care for. Linen is another great option because it's lightweight, durable, and gets softer and more lovely with every washing.  

You also want to consider the style of the sweater. Open knit or mesh styles are not only stylish this year, but ideal for summer because of all that build in ventilation. These styles are perfect for layering over tank tops or dresses that might otherwise feel a little bare or too cool in that air conditioning.  When choosing a pattern, look for designs that feature lace or eyelet details. These details not only add ventilation, but make your knitting much more interesting.  I personally love miles and miles of stockinette, but you might prefer a little more interest in your project.  

Tanks and tees are nice and cool and are also versatile as you can wear them year-round under blouses and jackets.  Or over blouses.  A summer top is often a perfect winter vest.  If you plan to wear the garment without another layer, watch out that the eyelets and mesh are not more revealing than you’re comfortable wearing.

Knit Layering Pieces 

Summer knitting is also about lightweight layering pieces. Lightweight cardigans, ponchos and wraps are perfect for tossing on over your summer outfits for added warmth or just to give it a different look.  You can completely change the look of an outfit by adding a cardigan or a big shawl. A summer layer or accessory instantly freshens up a basic outfit and makes it feel more like spring.  For wraps and shawls meant to have a lot of drape, summer fibers and finer gauge yarns are a perfect choice. These pieces are great for adding a pop of color to your summer wardrobe.  

Bright Colors and Summer Flair

When it comes to summer sweaters, feel free to play with bright colors and fun patterns.  Everything goes with jeans, but I think for spring and summer, there’s nothing like a great pair of white jeans to play off those summer garments.  

Stripes are good too.  Anyone can wear stripes - you just need to find the color and width that’s right for you. I love the idea of knitting a cotton Breton style sweater – it’s been on my list forever.  White with black stripes - or maybe navy. So clssic

If you’re not a bright color girl, consider the fresh cool look of white sweaters. White sweaters with white jeans always look cool and elegant.  Even neutral sweaters with white jeans or linen panfs feel very summery and classic.  

In this week’s episode of the podcast, I’ll share with you the patterns in Mode Collection Eight and a few other seasonal collections from Rowan that will be sure to inspire you to make something summery that’s fun to knit and fabulous to wear!