Can you wear knitwear in summer?

Many people wonder if it’s ok to wear knitwear in summer, because traditionally, knitwear means warm, dense knitting. But summer knitted knitwear is different. It is created on machines with a looser loop, in a “breathable” knitting technique, a process commonly used by any knitwear manufacturer when developing lightweight summer pieces. That means air stays between the threads, cooling the body.

This summer knit wear method reduces the overall weight of the garment almost by half vs winter knitwear.

Summer knitwear is created using industrial knitting machines. They allow patterned, openwork knitting with minimal density. These can be sundresses with ties, blouses, tops, and even cardigans. Machines precisely regulate yarn tension, creating different density zones within a single garment.

Few things say summer knitwear like crochet textures and openwork knits. Equal measures breathable and decorative, our edit is perfect for styling with seasonal classics like denim shorts, or equally suited to teaming with tailored trousers for a seasonally-suitable office look.

As a result, garments are lightweight, with a fine texture and breathable effect.

What breathable knitwear is made of

Understanding knitwear keeps you cool in summer starts with its composition. For knitwear to let air through, not only the knitting method but also the fabric composition matters. Viscose is ideal. This soft, semi-transparent fiber cools and doesn’t trap heat. Viscose is especially valued for its ability to wick moisture away from the skin quickly.

Another frequent choice is cotton. It is denser but still a natural summer knit. It absorbs moisture and ventilates well. Cotton knitwear is also resistant to frequent washing, which is important in a summer wardrobe.

Sometimes linen with viscose is used to make the structure softer and the knit more resistant to wrinkling. The key is avoiding synthetic lining: it often makes summer clothes unbearable. Knitwear without lining dries faster and traps less heat on a hot day.

Also, lightweight alpaca sweaters are surprisingly breathable, incredibly versatile, and effortlessly chic. It’s thermoregulation benefit makes it an ideal choice.

Hot to style knitwear in the summer season?

Bold colours and playful patterns take centre stage in the world of summer knitwear. From vibrant stripes to eye-catching florals, the designs add a pop of personality and help illustrate how to choose knitwear for the summer season, especially when looking for pieces that feel light. Additionally, there's a growing emphasis on sustainability, with many of our pieces incorporating eco-friendly materials and production practices into our summer knitwear lines.

For a chic daytime look, pair a lightweight knit top with casual shorts and sandals for effortless summer style. To transition into evening, layer a knitted cardigan over a sundress for a touch of texture and warmth. Accessories with woven straw hats and rattan bags to add a bohemian flair to any summer knitwear ensemble.

Is it worth wearing knitwear in the heat?

Yes. If it is summer knitwear, and not a winter sweater. The main thing is to choose the right knitting style, design, and composition. It doesn’t overheat, doesn’t suffocate, and doesn’t cause irritation.

As summer knits are often lightweight and fine (if not extra-fine), maintenance is of the utmost importance. Like cashmere, you should always fold – never hang – your knitted garments. Keep them situated in a drawer away from the elements (or moths for that matter) and follow washing instructions.

Contact us if you want to obtain alpaca knitwear! We have the certification of Fair Trade Good Practices in Peru and we can help you with any doubt.

Article reviewed by Grace Wouters Huamanchumo, co-founder of Knit-Lab Peru and international knitwear industry specialist with over 10 years of experience working with fashion brands across the U.S., Europe, and Australia. Her expertise in sustainable manufacturing, strategic sourcing, and Fair Trade practices ensures the accuracy and relevance of the content published on this site.