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: