If you consider yourself to be a minimalist dresser, you’ll want to pay attention to what I’m about to say. As someone who is always drawn to clean lines and pared-back combinations, I’ve noticed the rise in one surprising top style that all the best dressed people in my feed seem to be styling right now: open-knit sweaters. Understated, relaxed, and nodding to the ’90s, a lightweight, airy knit is beginning to replace oversize button-downs as the finishing touch for a minimalist summer outfit. I know—sweaters in the summer? It sounds like an oxymoron, but yes, it’s a thing.
Whether draped over fluid silk pants for an elevated evening look or paired with a simple miniskirt for daytime polish, open-knit sweaters are the understated top that adds a cool (and heat-friendly) texture to otherwise simple outfits. The standout style of the moment is the Khaite Davet Sweater with its wide bell sleeves and open neckline, but an internet deep dive led me to a treasure trove of similar white, beige, and oatmeal-colored styles at a range of price points.
Ahead, discover how fashion people are styling an open-knit sweater as the quiet hero of their summer wardrobes, and shop the best versions to shop now.
Style Notes: Open-knit sweater + maxi skirt + minimalist sandals + clutch
Khaite
Davet Open-Knit Silk and Cotton-Blend Sweater
Massimo Dutti
Marled Knit Sweater
Helsa
Janize Chunky Sweater
Style Notes: Open-knit sweater + solid skirt + sleek clutch + pendant necklace
Banana Republic
Heirloom Linen Boatneck Sweater
Vince
Open Knit Boat Neck Sweater
J.Crew
Montauk Pullover Sweater
Style Notes: Open-knit sweater + satin pants + heeled mules + beaded necklace
Reformation
Elliot Boucle Crew
Toteme
Long Open Weave Knit Sweater
Style Notes: Open-knit sweater + Bermuda shorts + heeled thong sandals + clutch
Brunello Cucinelli
Open-Knit Cotton-Blend Sweater
Enza Costa
Linen Open Knit Bateau Sweater
TWP
Wide Crewneck Long Sleeve Pullover Sweater
Style Notes: Open-knit sweater + tan trousers + woven bag
Brochu Walker
The Aria Popover
Meilleur Moment
Cashmere-Silk Relaxed Pullover Sweater
Open Edit
Open Stitch Sweater
Style Notes: Open-knit sweater + swimsuit + lounge shorts
Madewell
Boatneck Pullover Sweater
Banana Republic
Coastal Cotton Crew-Neck Sweater
Urban Outfitters
Bdg Nola Cotton Blend Oversized Boatneck Sweater
Style Notes: Open-knit sweater + tailored trousers + heeled sandals + shoulder bag
nuuds
Summer Breeze Open Stitch Sweater
MANGO
Fray Open Knit Sweater
Enza Costa
Linen Open Knit Poncho
Varley
Kershaw Crewneck Sweater
freepeople
Coconut Knit Long Sleeve
