I have had a lifelong obsession with pointelle, and it’s coming to a head this season.You may recognize this delicate knit — characterized by a cotton-ish fabrication and microscopic geometric openwork that generally follows a linear path — from vintage undergarments and antique hosiery, but it’s enjoying a moment in the fashion spotlight thanks to celebrity editorials and big-name runway brands.No longer relegated to the underwear drawer, you can now get this knit in almost every conceivable silhouette. I want pointelle pajamas, pointelle tanks, pointelle skirts... you name it, you’ve got it. It has a romantic, nostalgic quality that will never go out of style. It’s eternally chic, and luckily for us, it’s having a major fashion moment.Pointelle is casual and lightweight, making it perfect for warm-weather months. It is also surprisingly versatile; you can dress it up or down depending on the occasion. I wear pointelle cardigans to the office with skirts and flats, and pair retro-inspired pointelle baby tees with shorts and sneakers on the weekend. The options are truly endless. Below, we’ve rounded up a selection of beautiful pointelle clothing items from some of our favorite retailers at a range of price points, so you can load up your summer wardrobe with this timeless knit. UniqloA comfortable, editor-approved cardigan I have been living in this Uniqlo pointelle cardigan since I purchased it last month. It's perfectly lightweight so I can wear it even on hot days, and is the perfect layering piece. It looks delightful over a baby tee or a tank. It's also incredibly versatile; I've worn it to work with a skirt and trousers on multiple occasions. It's also the perfect layer for travel days when it's hot outside but cold on an airplane. I need more colors, ASAP. It's a staple item that everyone needs in their rotation. The fabric is soft and comfortable, with just the right amount of heft — or lack thereof. It's available in sizes XXS-XXL in three colors. Old NavyA pointelle tank top for less than the price of a latteFeaturing a scoop neck and spaghetti straps, this classic pointelle tank is an ideal layering item. You can wear it on its own when the temperatures get high or layer it under a cardigan or even a button-down for a more demure look. It's a fabulous staple item with added subtle style thanks to the sophisticated pointelle details. You can get it in a range of colors in petite, standard and tall silhouettes in sizes XS-4XL. And you really can't beat the price!AmazonA four-pack of pointelle crew socksPointelle socks are a fun and easy way to add a feminine, delicate touch to any outfit. This four-pack of crew socks is available in a few different color combinations and can be styled in a variety of ways depending on your footwear of choice. They're lightweight and breathable, which is just what the doctor ordered during the hot summer months. AmazonA breezy pajama set Made with 100% cotton, this set includes a comfortable tank top and a pair of soft undies. It has a delicate lace trim that you see with old school pointelle sets, it's very reminiscent of the '70s and '80s. This duo is perfect for anyone who wants to elevate their summer bedtime looks without feeling too exposed in traditional lingerie. It's available in sizes small and medium. Reviewers note that the cotton is soft, breathable and feels great on the skin, saying, "You can immediately tell it's well made."GapA layerable mini-dress with a removable slipLayer this pointelle tunic over some easy pants or wear it solo with the included slip. Made from 100% cotton, it features an unique floral pattern and is available in petite, regular and tall sizes. “Got a lot of [compliments] on this one,” wrote a reviewer. “I ordered tall (I am [5-foot-7] so don't always need that) and was glad I did…super cute!”GapA pair of baby pink pointelle pajama pants from GapI had a pair of pointelle pajama pants in this exact shade of pink in 2001 when I was 16 — talk about nostalgia! Thanks to Gap, these must-have pajama pants are just what we all need this summer, when we don't want to sleep in shorts or a nightie but don't want to overheat. The pants feature a soft pointelle knit jersey fabrication and have an elastic waist with a sweet little bow. They're available in a wide range of colors, but some are more popular than others. You can also get them in regular, petite and tall silhouettes in sizes XXS-XXL.H&MA versatile cardigan tee for warmer daysThis cap-sleeved cardigan is available in sizes XXS-XXL and a handful of charming colors. The cotton-acrylic fabric is knitted with a vintage-inspired pattern and finished with a ribbed necklace. Reviewers report that they "got many [compliments]" when sporting the piece. SézaneAn elegant sleeveless top It's no surprise that ultra-chic French retailer Sézane has a sophisticated variation on the theme. This sleeveless shirt has a beautiful boatneck and a body-skimming silhouette that isn't too tight. It's great for anyone who wants an elevated take on a classic pointelle tee. You can get it in cream or navy in sizes XXS-XXXL.Marine LayerA cozy long-sleeve crewneck top Stay comfy with this cotton-blend top with just the right amount of stretch. It has a fitted silhouette with long sleeves and a classic crew neckline that will look just as fabulous layered under sweaters as it will on its own. It's perfectly cozy, with a retro, lived-in look that still feels fresh. You can get it in sizes XS-XL in three colors.Cou CouA flirty pointelle skirtI've had my eye on this skirt for a while, and it's finally time to add it to my cart. The hem has a very slight flare that gives it a nice bit of unexpected flounce, while the scalloped picot trim and little bow retain that classic pointelle aesthetic. It's made with organic cotton that is soft, airy and comfortable, so you know it's going to be a great warm-weather piece. You can get it in black or white in sizes XXS-XXL.J.CrewA classic J.Crew cardigan with a twistEven J.Crew's classic Jackie cardigan got a romantic update. Described by shoppers as the "perfect spring cardigan," the feathery fabrication is made from an "ultrafine" cotton and as available in sizes XXS-3X. Reviewers love the lightweight feel and "old school [J.Crew] quality." KnixA delicate, vintage-inspired pointelle pajama topThis adorable baby tee from Knix is as dreamy and retro as it gets, like the kind I wore as a child in the early '90s. I am eyeing it (along with the matching shorts) and know it has the potential to be the perfect summer pajama set. Though knowing me, I'll definitely be wearing that top out and about. You can get it in a few different colors, but my head has been turned by this floral print.DôenA delicate V-neck shirt Available in sizes XXS-XXL, this romantic tee is made with soft organic cotton and designed with a body-skimming silhouette. The V-neckline is unique for a traditional pointelle top, adding a lot of visual interest and a hint of sultriness. The daily contrasting lace gives it a little pop of eye-catching color. AmazonOr, an affordable version of this Y2K silhouetteThis top took me straight back to the year 2000; now all I need is my frosted eyeshadow and some mini butterfly clips. This slim-fit pointelle shirt has a plunging neckline and a wrap-top silhouette that deserves its place in your vacation wardrobe and beyond. You can get it in four colors in sizes S-L.Buck MasonA feather-light button-down tank topThis tank has an almost vest-like silhouette, which puts a fun spin on a pointelle look. It's made with butter-soft cotton-linen blend fabric that gives it an almost gauzy appearance. It's definitely on the pricey side, as many Buck Mason items are, but the brand is known for using high-quality materials and precise, long-lasting construction. Chances are high that it will be well worth the investment. Get it in black or white in sizes XS-L.TargetA cotton layer in a springy shade of greenThis sheer cotton cardigan offers a blousier fit and floral openwork that will add springy cheer to any outfit. Get it in sizes XS-XL right now.LesetA slim-fitting T-shirt with a cheeky lingerie vibeAvailable in a range of colors, this slim-fit pointelle tee from Leset has just the right amount of vintage flair. Made with soft cotton fabric, it has that dainty silhouette and scalloped edges that make pointelle knits look so special. It's designed to look like old-school sleepwear, but honestly, it's so chic that I'd wear it out of the house any day. You can get it in sizes XS-XL.
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