The hardest thing for me to say goodbye to come summer is my cosy knitwear. If I could live in jumpers all year, I would, and so I'm pleased to announce that these summer knitwear trends for 2026 are proof that I most certainly can. Swapping your knits for balmy versions feels like a total energy shift, similar to how replacing your boots with sandals feels—reinvigorating and enlivening. It's a notable moment, one that feels like we can finally welcome in the season of warmth, longer days and lighter fabrics.
To me, a summer knit is a gentle hug. It's that delicate layer that stretches evenings out for even longer. It holds in the warmth of a sun-kissed day. In an outfit, it's the missing piece. The texture you've been trying to add, the whimsical splash of colour or mesmerising pattern that can't be fulfilled by anything else in quite the same way.
Although summer knitwear sounds somewhat oxymoronic, it delivers on its promise. Trends for this year are leaning toward the romantic, ethereal and elegant. Just look to pointelle knits, sheer jumpers and crochet-inspired knitwear, three firm trends that feel care-free and elegant for really any occasion. Colourful cardigans and knit shorts are also in the mix, sprinkling in vibrancy and fun into our outfits.
What I love most about these trends, and a commonality between all of them, is how well they work with the rest of your summer wardrobe. They complement skirts and shorts, sundresses and silk trousers, and they work with a myriad of personal styles, whether you lean into classic summer styles or more maximalist attire.
So whilst we may be folding away our thicker knits for later in the year, there are plenty of summer knitwear trends to enjoy in the here and now. Scroll on for six that are worthy of adding to your capsule.
6 Summer Knitwear Trends We're Wearing in 2026
1. Pointelle Knits
Style Notes: Cashmere is to winter as pointelle is to summer. With tiny eyelets creating a delicate lace-like texture, it's no wonder this breezy material is becoming a fashion-person staple for warmer weather this year. Something long appreciated and worn by French women, the pointelle knitwear trend expertly toes the line between laidback and elegant. Whilst it may have once been mainly a top-tier choice for sleepwear, it's now the perfect thing to wear out, whether you're in the South of France or simply dreaming about it.
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I can't think of a more classic summer piece for trying this trend.
Cou Cou specialises in sultry pointelle pieces, including this top. You can also shop the skirt to match.
This dreamy tank boasts a scalloped strap and baby soft texture.
2. Knit Shorts
Style Notes: There are so many lovely summer shorts trends to try this summer. Though, nothing evokes softness and vintage styles like a pair of knit shorts. Not to mention, this trend is one of my favourite ways of embracing retro in a way that feels very modern. Knitted hot pants lit up summers in the 1960s (thank you to the iconic Mary Quant), and they're back. With so many colours to choose from, and even matching sets available, like London-based creative director Abisola Omole's chic mint green co-ord, they're an easy way to feel stylish and dressed for scorching temps. I'll be copying this exact look, or pairing mine with a wide-sleeved linen top this season.
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A very chic two trends blended into one.
The brown is such an earthy option for summer. They also come in a bright red.
The stripes are so retro, and so ready for a trip to the riviera.
3. Sheer Jumpers
Style Notes: This trend is the equivalent of turning down the opacity of your thick winter knits. Sheer is here, and it's sticking around for the foreseeable. There is something so ethereal about a sheer jumper. The gossamer composition of translucent threads adds an airiness to summer outfits that no woolly counterpart can. They're exceptional for wearing over top of lace bralettes, draped around your shoulders whilst wearing a sundress or as a coverup to bring on a seaside holiday.
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The lacy pattern is particularly eye-catching on this jumper.
This bouclé jumper gives the prettiest coastal aesthetic to any look.
This cape-like knit is actually made of breathable and light linen.
4. Colourful Cardigans
Style Notes: I'm going to recommend pausing your neutral cardigan rotation for just a minute to consider a few more colourful hues for the summer months. Although there is always room for a white or black cardi, a vibrant-toned knit will truly become a bright spot in your wardrobe. Even colour minimalists will find trending summer hues they can happily get behind, from butter yellow to ice blue to baby pink. Having a different shade or two also gives your knits a more summer-ready aesthetic when your autumnal burgundy and winter navy feels a touch too heavy.
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DÔEN does more than romantic dresses, and this beautiful buttercup cardigan is proof.
This is another form of pointelle in a delightfully bright pink hue.
There's something about the contrast red collar and buttons that makes this white knit feel completely different.
5. High-Neck Knit Vests
Style Notes: A high-neck knit vest is one of my all-time favourite summer wardrobe staples, and I'm pleased to see them back on the scene in 2026. They ground an outfit and offer structure the same way a jumper does, just sans sleeves. Whether you opt for loose cotton loops or a tightly woven top, they style effortlessly with skirts, shorts, linen trousers and jeans.
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Wear it now on its own, and add a long sleeve layer underneath when autumn arrives.
The kind of wool you can get away with in the summer.
And an option if you prefer a V-neck or lower cut.
6. Crochet-Inspired Knitwear
Style Notes: The second summer arrives, I'm immediately drawn to more delicate-looking materials, from taffeta trousers to organza tops to crochet knits. Like sheer jumpers, this knitwear trend feels whimsical. Whilst the verdict is still out on what kind of summer this is shaping up to be, I'm slowly floating into the camp of fairy girl summer (I just need a pair of wings). I'm clearly not alone in my thinking—with the return of bohemian styles, a resurgence of white broderie anglaise dresses and princess-inspired jelly sandals—it's shaping up to be exactly this ethereal, indeed.
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Don't forget about the appeal of a short-sleeved knit in summer.
Crochet in a gorgeous crop top format. It's both elegant and bohemian.
The sky blue and textured material makes this another superb knit for summer wear.