Best Lightweight Summer Cardigans for Women Over 50
You know how it is—summer rolls in, and suddenly, it’s time for sleeveless tops and strappy dresses, but sometimes, you just want a little coverage. Maybe it’s the chilly AC in restaurants, a breeze that sneaks up in the evening, or perhaps you’re just not in the mood to show your arms. I can relate, and that’s where a lightweight cardigan comes in handy.
A lightweight cardigan is one of those pieces that I have always liked to have around. I can toss it in my bag, drape it over my shoulders, or use it to pull an outfit together without adding bulk or heat. And no, it doesn’t have to look frumpy or too buttoned-up. I’ve found that the right cardigan can actually make your outfit. It adds a little polish, a little coverage, and some cozy comfort.
Today, I’m sharing some of the best lightweight summer cardigans for women over 50, including this chic yellow one from @talbots. Follow along to see one of the many ways to style a summer cardigan to look stylish and modern no matter what your age.
Best Lightweight Linen Cardigans for Mature Women
Every summer, I hear from many of you (my arm-shy readers) who, despite the warm weather, do not like going sleeveless or showing your arms. I get it! You’re looking for new and interesting ways to camouflage arm jiggle and crepey skin but not feel hot. I often suggest tops with elbow-length, wider flowy sleeves, eyelet sleeves, and 3/4 length sleeves. Luckily, there are many to cover your arms and choose from.
Before we get into how I styled my cardigan, let’s take a look at what’s out there for 2025.
summer cardigans
One of my favorite ways to cover my arms is with a lightweight linen cardigan. This perky yellow one is a favorite.
I really don’t mind wearing sleeveless tops. I’m not self-conscious about my arms, but they get chilly in the summer, especially if I’m in an air-conditioned restaurant, store, or airplane. I even feel cold on a breezy summer day when I’m by the water, so I always like to have a lightweight cardigan close by to slip on when I need it.
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This vibrant yellow cardigan is great because it’s very thin and lightweight. I can roll it up in a ball and tuck it in my tote! It’s made of blended linen and cotton, so it’s nice and breathable and summery. The length is perfect- not too long, but long enough to look chic, and the big patch pockets give it a very relaxed vibe.
I think it looks great with white jeans. These are Talbot’s stretchy cropped jeggings. I’m wearing them with this cute, sleeveless, ruffle-neck top. My metallic wedge sandals add a touch of glam!
This sporty top is the perfect layering piece for this linen cardigan. It’s airy and loose, and the dainty ruffle at the neckline gives it a feminine touch. It has sold out, but here are a few others that are similar ruffle neck tops ( similar | no ruffle). Do you remember I wore the same top but with a floral print with my long pink cardigan in the spring?
This sporty summer-style recipe is a cinch to put together. I’ve added some Dean Davidson jewelry- these two-tone linear hoops and my favorite linear bracelet to polish it off. A summer linen cardigan is a must-have for me! How about you?
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To shop this look, click the links above!
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Linen in Summer is perfect! I like it, too, and I love that color combo!