Pattern Radar: Summer tops

As the weather warms up (here in the Northern Hemishphere), there are lots of lovely, lightweight summer top patterns being released.  Here are a few of my favorites.

Dagny by Elsebeth Lavold

summer tops 1

© Anders Rydell

I love the long line of this pretty tank, containing the intricate Viking-inspired cables that Lavold is known for, combined with long, slimming ribs.  I think this is an elegant option for summer, especially if knit with a linen blend.

Monarri by Stephanie Earp

summer tops 6

© Stephanie Earp

This little tee is so charming.  I love the drape, the swingy silhouette, the two-coloured herringbone stitch cuffs and neck, the sunny shades.  Click through to the pattern and check out the back view; it has a really great swing to it.

Rainsong by Laura Aylor

summer tops 3

© Laura Aylor

Yes, this is a fairly plain tank, but it is a perfectly proportioned one, which balances a beautiful shape, a bit of texture to draw the eye, and just enough drape.  This will showcase a special yarn, and will look equally smart under a jacket at the office or with a floaty summer skirt.

Kentia by Marie Amelie Designs

summer tops 5

© Marie Amelie Designs

I keep coming back to this one.  The lace bodice is very pretty and romantic, and the loose, slightly-cropped fit of the tee is sporty and modern.   It is an intriguing combination.  With the right yarn, and two lovely, complimentary shades, this is a striking summer top.

Good Day Tee by Annie Lupton

summer tops 4

© Annie Lupton

This modular top has an interesting shape and construction.  I think it would be fantastic in linen or a summery blend – something with a bit of texture and sheen – and would keep you cool no matter the weather.  It also looks fun to knit.

Jenny Flower by Julie Knits in Paris

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© Julie Knits In Paris

I love this pretty, stripey, yoked tee with rows of eyelet lace, and summery colours.  It has a delicious drape and looks charming and comfortable.  Julie has been turning out some great patterns lately and is firmly on my radar.

I am on my way to Spain tomorrow for a short holiday.  I will be taking my Sparkling cardigan to knit, but don’t be surprised if one of these lovely tops gets cast on soon.  Do you have a summer top on your needles?

6 thoughts on “Pattern Radar: Summer tops

  1. You have picked out some lovely options for summer tanks 🙂 I love Elsebeth Lavold! Hers is my favorite, but the others are all really beautiful and cool looking as well 🙂

  2. Those are great!!! I don’t wear summer knits, usually, though “June” tempts me to try… then I think that a lace weight plus size is a crazy endeavor!

  3. Thank you, that’s nice selection of tops I didn’t know. I have a summer striped sweater on my needles, I was hoping to get a short-sleeved lace cardigan under way as well, so I’d better hurry. This is July already (I can’t believe how quickly time flies).

  4. Ooh, some lovely picks. I have favourited some for future knits in ravelry. I really like Rainsong and the Good Day Tee – I have a few skeins of linen and hemp that could work for either.

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