When you think of summer, hefty ball of yarns and knitting needles rarely cross your mind. But, there’s one garment that never fades off even in the hottest of seasons: the summer cardigan. Far from the traditional thick knitted winter cardigans, summer cardigans are a go-to lightweight option that can add a touch of luxury and style to your summer outfits. They provide perfect warmth on cool summer evenings and can quickly transform a casual outfit into something chic and sophisticated.
Understanding Summer Cardigans
Summer cardigans are a smart and versatile addition to your wardrobe. Unlike their warm, chunky winter counterparts, summer cardigans are thin and lightweight. They typically feature short sleeves or three-quarter-length sleeves and are made from lightweight materials such as cotton, linen and cashmere.
Choosing The Right Material
The blend of material of the cardigan is crucial. For a comfortable summer cardigan, opt for breathable fabrics. Cotton and linen are excellent choices as they allow for good air circulation, keeping you cool during the warm weather. Cotton is also perfect because it’s soft, lightweight, and absorbs moisture. Linen, on the other hand, has a loose weave which provides extra breathability and a distinctive texture, giving it a more laid-back boho look.
But, if you’re in for a touch of luxury, a cashmere cardigan women’s piece is for you. While it might seem counterintuitive, cashmere works not only for cold winter months but also for summer. Cashmere is cozy for its weight thanks to its high insulation capabilities. However, when knitted into a thinner material, as is typical in summer cardigans, it becomes surprisingly breathable. A thinly knitted cashmere cardigan offers a touch of warmth for cooler summer evenings and adds a luxurious feel to any outfit.
Styling A Summer Cardigan
A summer cardigan is wildly versatile. Button it up and wear it as a top with high-waist jeans, or leave it open over a sundress to create a relaxed yet refined look. Patterned cardigans can add some flair to a simple tank top and shorts outfit, while a neutral-toned cardigan can be thrown over a colorful summer dress to tone it down for a more formal setting.
The summer cashmere cardigan, with its lavish feel, is best for dressier occasions. Pair a soft pastel cashmere cardigan with a summer dress and heeled sandals for an elegant evening look. Or for a smart casual work look, partner it with a pair of tailored trousers and a simple white blouse.
Caring for Your Summer Cardigan
Maintaining the freshness of your summer cardigan requires proper care. Always follow the care instructions on the label. Most summer cardigans, particularly those of cotton and linen, can be machine washed. However, the luxurious cashmere cardigan requires more delicate hand washing or professional dry cleaning to maintain its quality. Remember to store it folded rather than hanged, to avoid any stretching.
Finally, it is crucial when drying your cardigan to avoid direct sunlight, particularly for dyed fabrics. Lay it flat on a clean dry towel, reshape it into its original form, and leave it to dry naturally to avoid shrinkage.
Conclusion
In a nutshell, a summer cardigan is the perfect blend of comfort, class, and versatility. It’s the secret weapon in your wardrobe for those confusing summer days and chilly nights. With the right choice of material, style, and care, your summer cardigan serves as a timeless fashion statement. So choose wisely and strut with confidence and elegance!