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Not everyone is thrilled about the weather retiring long sleeves for now. If you’re self-conscious about your arms, you might be stressing about how so many tops and dresses have a sleeveless design. The solution? A short-sleeve cardigan. The lightweight layer adds a little coverage to leave you feeling confident this spring and summer.
There isn’t a whole lot of layering being done during the warmer months, but you’ll barely notice that your short-sleeve cardigan is there. Most of them have the classic button-up design, just with shorter sleeves. So, just swap them out with your long-sleeve ones, and you’ll be ready to take on the season.
Short-Sleeve Cardigans for Spring and Summer Layering
1. Our Favorite: Available in 20 colors, this $19 button-up option has a simple design to pair with your wardrobe. It comes in sizes small to 3XL and has a slim fit.
2. Darling Diamonds: The adorable diamond-shaped crochet detailing on this soft short-sleeve cardigan adds a nice spring-ready touch. If you decide to wear it buttoned up as a top, you’ll have a flattering V-neck silhouette.
3. Button-Free Babe: Although most cardigans have buttons, this is a flowy open-front option you can throw on. And it has a pocket on each side, which is always a bonus!
4. Classic Cable-Knit: For just $24, you get a way more expensive-looking option in this short-sleeve cable-knit cardigan. The gold-toned buttons have anchors on them for a nautical touch.
5. Batwing Buy: You won’t be weighed down in this oversized short-sleeve cardigan, thanks to its flowy batwing sleeves. Plus, shoppers agree that the cotton blend is soft to the touch.
6. Wonderful Waves: For a feminine detail, this cropped short-sleeve cardigan has scalloped edges at the neckline, sleeves and hemline. Oh, and those waves are even featured at the button holes to tie it all together!
7. Cashmere Cardi: Made of 100% Grade-A Mongolian cashmere, this super-soft Quince cardigan will last in your wardrobe for years to come. The brand impressively kept this option at an affordable price, too.
8. Soft Selection: For a cool, boxy option, this slouchy knit cardigan is comfortable to wear throughout the day. The cream, sage and pale blue colors are ideal for the season, too!
9. Collared Cutie: No one will accuse you of having a boring top when you wear this collared pointelle cardigan. It also has scalloped edges for a truly feminine top.
10. Pretty Pointelle: Made of 100% cotton, we love the pop of color in this J.Crew crochet cardigan. It’s a fun, textured top that you can add on top of a simpler base.
11. Sweetly Scalloped: The puffed sleeves are just one element that makes this lightweight short-sleeve cardigan easy and breezy. Add in the fact that they have scalloped edges, and we’re sold!
12. Cropped Character: With a slightly fuzzy texture, this cropped short-sleeve cardigan is a cozy addition. The gray and dark blue colors are classic, but the butter yellow hue is a must-have for the season.
13. Star Power: You’ll really look ready for summer when you throw on this textured V-neck cardigan. It features starfish buttons for a beachy vibe.
14. Poised Pearls: For a more nighttime-friendly option, this cute short-sleeve cardigan is lightly covered in pearls. It also has statement buttons and easy scalloped edges for a stand-out pick.
15. Cool Crochet: Worried about overheating? This lightweight crochet cardigan has a hollow-out pattern, so you get a breeze even on the hottest days.
16. Timeless Texture: You can go wrong with classic cable knit, and this Lucky Brand cardigan does it right. It comes in unexpected dark blue and light mauve colors to bring more fun to your look.
17. Perfectly Puffed: The puffed sleeves do all the talking on this short-sleeve knit cardigan. It comes in both neutral and bold hues to work well with your wardrobe.
