13 summer knits that are equally cool and cozy, starting at $18

The fashion seasons are often divided by clothing material. Fall and winter get wool, corduroy, fleece, and chunky knits, while spring and summer often get cotton, linen, rayon, and chambray. No disrespect to any of these materials or their associated seasons, but I’m here to make a case for why knits belong in the summertime, too. I’m not talking about wearing oversized, chunky cable-knit sweaters in 90-degree weather; nope, those can stay in storage. I’m talking thin, airy knit clothing that’s made for warmer weather and adds more texture and interest to a summer wardrobe.

While cotton T-shirts, denim shorts, and linen pants may make up the majority of your summer wardrobe essentials, having a few knit pieces to throw in the mix can instantly elevate a look. For example, you can swap out a basic tank for a sleeveless sweater top to make an outfit look more styled with minimal effort. Another major perk of wearing breezy knits in the summertime is that they’re comfy and not restricting. If you’re someone who hasn’t touched a pair of jeans in months, then a pair of stretchy knit shorts or pants—or, better yet, an entire knit set—can be an easier way to transition back into “real world” dressing—and to look cute while doing it. You can also just as easily rock some comfy knit pieces around the house; they’re the perfect loungewear clothes.

Lulus Lady Olive Green Knit Tank Top

This olive green knit set is great for staying inside and lounging around, but it’s cute enough to wear out, too. Shop the matching shorts here.

Madewell Crochet Janson Sweater Tank in Rainbow Stripe

Whether you’re able to make it to the beach or not this summer, this striped sweater tank is a great piece to have in your summer wardrobe. Pair it with some flared jeans to play up the ’70s-inspired style, or simply throw on some shorts for an easy, cute look.

Boohoo Rib Knit Top & Shorts Co-ord

This set is like your basic shorts and a T-shirt combo, but make it ultra cozy. It’s also available in blush pink and white.

Revolve Margot Knit Bells

These are the definition of party pants. Embellished with metallic gold thread, these knit bell-bottoms are sure to stand out. An added perk: They come with a drawstring for extra comfort.

Anthropologie Danette Ribbed Halter Tank

This knit halter tank looks simple, but it’s definitely a statement piece. This ribbed knit material provides more structure than a regular tank would, and it will also look more smooth on the body. If yellow isn’t your color, the tank also comes in black.

Boohoo Knitted Bralette & Shorts Co-ord

For a textured twist on the bra top and bike shorts trend, try out this knitted bralette and shorts combo. The set also comes in black and grey.

Skims Cozy Knit Tank

All the pieces from Kim Kardashian’s cozy Skims collection have drawn a lot of attention for being incredibly comfortable, and we can’t wait to snag some pieces of our own. “Camel” is one of the only colors with sizes left in the knit set (you can buy the shorts here), but if you want a full set you can add your email to the waitlist for the white, aqua blue, stone grey, and black options.

Revolve Carrie Knit Pant Set

This knit pant set is a knockout look all together, and the pieces would work great when worn separately, too.

Lottie Moss One Shoulder Sweater Tank Top

In case you love the top of the set above but don’t want to buy the whole set, this one-shoulder sweater tank is a great choice. Plus, the item is part of PacSun’s buy-one-get-one free sale, so you can get one for a friend and shop another applicable item here.

Kendall & Kylie Cinch Sweater Tube Top

Rock a summer knit and the tube-top trend all in one with this cute cinched top by Kendall & Kylie. And just an FYI: This top is also eligible for buy one, get one free.

Free People Skyline Midi Skirt

A knit skirt is a super versatile item to have in your closet. You can wear it throughout the summer and transition it into fall, and it can easily be dressed up or down. Shop this skirt in the trendy lime green color above, or shop it in 13 other colors here.

Old Navy Knit Skirt

This piece from Old Navy is another great knit midi skirt option—and it’s only $18. Shop the skirt on sale before it sells out.

Lou & Grey Cropped Cardigan

We couldn’t talk about summer knits without including this summer-perfect cardigan. You can also shop it in white and burnt orange here.