The Summer Sweater

A sweater is a sweater, right? And when it's hot out, the last thing you're thinking about is pulling on anything bulky and scratchy. But as we dip into August, an all-season sweater is the ideal layering piece—light and breathable enough to prevent you from overheating when the sun's out and cozy enough to keep you (or your date) warm when the sun or temperature dips. You may have heard about summer-weight cashmere, but we're advocating good old cotton. It's soft, yet strong enough to last for years. And when it gets dirty you can simply throw it in the washing machine and then let it air dry. Opt for a neutral shade that will pair well with everything from madras shorts to white jeans. And while a V-neck would do, a shawl-collar has a certain sea-faring charm that's at once perfectly old school yet decidedly right now.

• Who else is making them? J.Crew, L.L. Bean Signature and Rag & Bone

Shawl-neck sweater, $165 by Ralph Lauren