With Memorial Day this past weekend heralding the unofficial start of summer, my favorite season, I thought I’d take a look at my to-knit list and start planning my warm-weather pieces! I knit year round, although I usually knit smaller items with more plant-based fibers in warmer months, since they’re cooler to hold and take up less space when toting them around on trips.

As my last project indicated, I’ve been really into knitted tee shirts,  tank tops, and short-sleeve cardigans. They give all the satisfaction of a garment in less time, and there are so many cute patterns! Basic lace and mesh patterns have really been calling my name recently, and are still a strong fashion trend. I wanted to highlight the graphic impact of the lace, rather than the soft, romantic side. So I found myself gravitating towards pieces with a stockinette body and geometric lacy accents, paired with a bright color palette for each to really make them pop. Below are three patterns I can’t wait to knit and wear this summer!

Everyone needs a classic tank top, and this one has clean, elegant lines. It would go with anything! I like to customize my knits, so I’d probably add a row or two of lace at the bottom, or maybe around the neckline. Though the pattern calls for Stroll Glimmer, I decided to use Stroll in Solids instead. The pink, greens, and soft gray of this palette would blend in perfectly when I’m hanging out in one of Portland’s many parks.

This blouse was one of my favorite pieces in our spring collection, In Bloom. It’d be great for layering and the lace is just gorgeous. It’s one of those tops that are so comfortable to wear but still look a little fancy!  To really give it some oomph with jeans or a skirt, I’d pick a punchy color of Stroll Tonal that will look amazing at a BBQ or outdoor concert.

I love cardigans, especially for summer when I’m always taking off or putting a layer back on. This would be just the thing when it gets chilly in the evening while I’m sitting on the bar patio having a drink with friends. The little touches of mesh on the front and back keep it airy and light, and the shaping is so flattering. It’s knit in Shine Sport, one of my favorite yarns, so I’d pick a warm, intense color to show off the beautiful gloss.

If you’re as excited about warm weather knitting as me, let me know what you’re planning on making this summer in the comments!