This Barely-There Sweater Trend Has Officially Moved Me to My Core

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(Image credit: Pixie Market)

Does a trend ever feel so original and fresh that it low-key makes you emotional? Nope, just me then? Well, once I show you everything there is to know about this latest micro-trend I've spotted, I think you'll feel differently. After several months of keeping an eye on this piece, I can confidently say that it's definitely one you should know about. The item in question? Boleros. More specifically, bolero sweaters.

After witnessing how one of these sweaters, in particular, became an Instagram It piece in its own right, I figured that it would only be a matter of time until more versions bubbled up and sure enough, now these sweater sleeves are all over my favorite retailers from Zara to Net-a-Porter. Whether it's an ultra-cropped pullover sweater or more of an open-front shrug, the idea is that the sweater is mostly just the sleeves, hence the term "barely-there". Because of this, there are plenty of ways to wear it layered over a tank top, bra top, or a dress—don't worry, there are plenty of matching sets that make this easy.

To get an idea of what I'm even talking about, see how the fashion crowd has already begun experimenting with these knits and, of course, shop the best bolero sweaters simply keep scrolling.

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(Image credit: @oliviavlopez)

These matching knit shrug sets like the Dion Lee style Olivia Lopez wears here takes the concept of a sweater set to a whole new level. Style one with fall staples like leather pants and boots.

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(Image credit: @champagnemani)

Trendy, yes, but these sweater sleeves are practical, too, for when all you need is a light layer and not an entire sweater. Throw one on with a tank and jeans for an cool, casual vibe.

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(Image credit: @sofiamcoelho)

It's all about the layering—try a knit shrug with tanks or dresses in a similar color for one cohesive look.

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(Image credit: @chainkyr)

While I'm pretty sure Chainky's top here is all one piece, it still has that same cold-shoulder look as a tank and bolero set, and I'm officially inspired to style mine with a large chain link necklace.

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(Image credit: @mariakragmann)

Anything I can wear that makes my wardrobe basics come alive is a yes in my book and this definitely fits the bill.

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(Image credit: @soleneoj)

Fashion girls are all about wearing these as bikini coverups, too.

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(Image credit: @littleblackboots)

Wear one to showcase your favorite bra top, another trendy item bolero sweaters pair well with.

Up next: The 18 Best Cropped Cardigans of Fall 2020, Period

Editor

Anna is an editor on the fashion team at Who What Wear and has been at the company for over five years, having begun her career in the Los Angeles office before relocating to New York, where she's currently based. Having always been passionate about pursuing a career in fashion, she built up her experience interning at the likes of Michael Kors, A.L.C., and College Fashionista before joining the team as a post-graduate assistant editor. Anna has penned a number of interviews with Who What Wear's cover stars over the years, including A-listers Megan Fox, Issa Rae, and Emma Chamberlain. She's earned a reputation for scouting new and emerging brands from across the globe and championing them to our audience of millions. While fashion is her main wheelhouse, Anna led the launch of WWW Travels last year, a new lifestyle vertical that highlights all things travel through a fashion-person lens. She is passionate about shopping vintage, whether it be at a favorite local outpost or an on-the-road discovery, and has amassed a wardrobe full of unique finds. When she's not writing, you can find her shooting street imagery on her film camera, attempting to learn a fourth or fifth language, or planning her next trip across the globe.