This Barely-There Sweater Trend Has Officially Moved Me to My Core

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(Image credit: Pixie Market)

Does a trend ever feel so original and fresh that it low-key makes you emotional? Nope, just me then? Well, once I show you everything there is to know about this latest micro-trend I've spotted, I think you'll feel differently. After several months of keeping an eye on this piece, I can confidently say that it's definitely one you should know about. The item in question? Boleros. More specifically, bolero sweaters.

After witnessing how one of these sweaters, in particular, became an Instagram It piece in its own right, I figured that it would only be a matter of time until more versions bubbled up and sure enough, now these sweater sleeves are all over my favorite retailers from Zara to Net-a-Porter. Whether it's an ultra-cropped pullover sweater or more of an open-front shrug, the idea is that the sweater is mostly just the sleeves, hence the term "barely-there". Because of this, there are plenty of ways to wear it layered over a tank top, bra top, or a dress—don't worry, there are plenty of matching sets that make this easy.

To get an idea of what I'm even talking about, see how the fashion crowd has already begun experimenting with these knits and, of course, shop the best bolero sweaters simply keep scrolling.

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(Image credit: @oliviavlopez)

These matching knit shrug sets like the Dion Lee style Olivia Lopez wears here takes the concept of a sweater set to a whole new level. Style one with fall staples like leather pants and boots.

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(Image credit: @champagnemani)

Trendy, yes, but these sweater sleeves are practical, too, for when all you need is a light layer and not an entire sweater. Throw one on with a tank and jeans for an cool, casual vibe.

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(Image credit: @sofiamcoelho)

It's all about the layering—try a knit shrug with tanks or dresses in a similar color for one cohesive look.

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(Image credit: @chainkyr)

While I'm pretty sure Chainky's top here is all one piece, it still has that same cold-shoulder look as a tank and bolero set, and I'm officially inspired to style mine with a large chain link necklace.

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(Image credit: @mariakragmann)

Anything I can wear that makes my wardrobe basics come alive is a yes in my book and this definitely fits the bill.

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(Image credit: @soleneoj)

Fashion girls are all about wearing these as bikini coverups, too.

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(Image credit: @littleblackboots)

Wear one to showcase your favorite bra top, another trendy item bolero sweaters pair well with.

Up next: The 18 Best Cropped Cardigans of Fall 2020, Period

Senior Editor

Anna is an NYC-based senior fashion editor who has been a member of the Who What Wear team for over seven years, having begun her career in L.A. at brands like Michael Kors and A.L.C. As an editor, she has earned a reputation for her coverage of breaking trends, emerging brands, luxury shopping curations, fashion features, and more. Anna has penned a number Who What Wear cover interviews, including Megan Fox, Julia Garner, and Lilly Collins. She also leads the site’s emerging travel vertical that highlights all things travel and lifestyle through a fashion-person lens.