Anyone who believes jumpers aren’t required in summer has clearly never shivered on a damp beach in Cornwall in August, debating whether there’s time for a swim before the black clouds roll in.

While other nationalities pack away their knits on May 1 – safe in the knowledge that four months of baking heat and blue skies await – we treat our summers like recalcitrant toddlers: lavishing them with praise when they’re at their best, yet starting each day expecting the worst.

Of course, this summer has so far been gloriously hot and sunny – but we all know the British weather gods can be as fickle and difficult as the Greek ones. Taking a jumper on a UK holiday is the equivalent of bringing suncream and a cagoule to the beach: common sense, and a lifesaver for all those moments when optimism overtakes realism.

Yes, a cardigan slung casually over the shoulders seems to say, I’m committed to summer – but this is not my first rodeo.

Alexa Chung wore a beige Ralph Lauren cable-knit cardigan to Wimbledon in 2024 — the perfect lightweight layer for unpredictable warm days - Karwai Tang/WireImage

“Isn’t it the most perfect thing to wear a jumper and a pair of shorts?” says Pip Durell, founder of cult clothing brand With Nothing Underneath.

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“When I think of summer, I think of going to the beach in Devon, and both when I was a child and now, always wearing or carrying a cotton jumper. We commit as Britons – we’re on that beach come rain or shine

Equally, while Britain’s long, light evenings – by this time of year stretching hours past any child’s bedtime – are unbeatable, eating dinner in the garden in little more than a thin top only happens for a few weeks each year.

And yes, your chunky knits from February can technically do the job, but they rarely feel right. Too hot, too heavy, too serious – and mostly too reminiscent of trudging home from the train station in icy darkness to feel welcome at an alfresco supper.

Prada helped transform the classic cardigan into a ‘stardigan’: perfect for layering through unpredictable days - Victor Virgile/Gamma-Rapho

The key, as ever, is fabric. My preference is for thick cotton: warm enough to take the edge off a sea breeze, but not so hot that you’ll start to sweat when the air turns muggy. Look for a loose-enough gauge so it drapes softly and never feels stifling, but not so loose that it loses its shape. Unlike in winter, you’ll probably wear a summer jumper next to the skin, so make sure it isn’t itchy – if cotton isn’t quite warm enough, a fine cashmere can also work beautifully.

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“The quality needs to hold up,” says Durell. “A cotton jumper isn’t precious: you’re chucking it over your shoulders as you head out the door to do something fun outside. I don’t care if it gets stained; I’ll wash it. Functionality is everything.”

As for the style: certain knits suit summer better than others. The classic English cricket jersey only really works from May to September, and looks lovely slung over a simple dress or jeans.

Another winner is the dependable old cardigan, which has slowly morphed into something of a scene-stealer (a stardigan, if you will) thanks to colourful turns at Prada, Chanel and Jil Sander.

Kent & Curwen’s classic English cricket jersey is a summer knit staple and can be worn effortlessly over dresses or jeans - Kate Green/Getty Images Europe

Yours needn’t be quite so fashion-centric when pottering around the villages of north Wales or Norfolk, but pretty printed styles from brands like Kitri and Whistles can make an entire outfit – or be worn open over a swimming costume on the way back from the beach.

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Ultimately, investing in a summer jumper is about being prepared. It’s as British as bringing a cagoule to Glyndebourne and wellies to a big family picnic. And if, after this rainy blip, the sun continues to shine so brightly and steadily that you hardly use it? Well, there’s always next summer to worry about.

Layer up in style...