I've Studied French Style—the Chicest Women Come Back to This Summer Knit Year After Year

To say this summer has been up and down in terms of the weather is an understatement. Whilst we experienced a brief heatwave this week, the overarching forecast has meant that I haven't been able to confidently pack away my heavier jackets and knitwear as I normally would.

I do, however, have a solution! Feeling let down by the weather report morning after morning, I've decided to follow in the footsteps of the French and give my knitwear collection a summer-ready makeover to see me through this typically tepid season. French women never seem to part with their cardigans, even in the summer months. Instead, they seem to have taken to styling a short-sleeved iteration that gives the lightweight layer of insulation sometimes needed at this time of year.

Layering perfectly over vest tops or tees and styling equally well on its own worn fully buttoned sans anything underneath, the pretty knitwear trend is a versatile addition to incorporate into a summer capsule wardrobe. On warm summer days, pop a light cotton style over a comfortable tank and wear with denim shorts. In cooler weather, try one with high-waisted or mid-rise jeans, or pair it with your favourite black trousers.

Comfortable and practical, the short-sleeved cardigan really comes into its own during the summer months, so much so that our favourite stores are full of elegant iterations right now. Scroll on to discover our edit of the best.

SHOP OUR EDIT OF THE BEST SHORT-SLEEVED CARDIGANS:

H&M

Cable-Knit Cardigan

£19

Style over a strappy tank or wear buttoned-up.

Mango

Combined Knitted T-Shirt

£26

This also comes in a vivid red shade.

Ganni

White Pointelle Short Sleeve Cardigan

£215

The pointelle knit trend is taking off this summer.

Khaite

Nora Cropped Cashmere-Blend Cardigan

£1230

This has risen right to the top of my wish list.

Nobodys Child

Cream Flower Stitch Knit Cardigan

£55£47

Shop this elegant knit whilst it's on sale.

Reformation

Claire Cashmere Cardigan

£198

This elegant cashmere version also comes in pink and cream.

Sezane

Kyle Cardigan

£100

This fresh green colour is such as easy way to add some vibrancy to your summer wardrobe.

Poetry

Short Sleeve Cardgian

£139

The baby blue colour trend is one of the season's biggest.

Marni

Striped Mohair Blend-Trimmed Wool Cardigan

£750

Style with denim or wear with cotton shorts.