Open your closet and take a good look at what you have. If you still don’t have a poncho, it’s time to get one. Ponchos are a valuable fashion item that helps you stay cool and stylish in the summer. If you get one made from lightweight fabrics, it can allow air to flow freely. Better yet, they can be easily mixed and matched with any outfit. Whether you want to stay lowkey and simple or extra glamorous, the best lightweight ponchos for summer can help you achieve your desired look. But since there are so many options on the market, the last thing you want is to wear a poncho that makes you sweat excessively. So, which ones are worth considering? Keep scrolling to learn more about our favorites!
Table of contents
- Top It Off Elsa Bamboo Poncho
- SHU-SHI Sheer Knit Poncho
- Futurino Bohemian Aztec Print Poncho
- CLAUDIA NICHOLE by Alashan Cashmere Poncho
- Moss Rose Travel Poncho
- PULI Poncho
- Back From Bali Sheer Poncho
- Carolina Grace by Alashan Poncho
- Urban CoCo Vintage Poncho
- Oshlen Summer Poncho
- Ferand Elegant Knitted Poncho Sweater
- Smallshow Poncho
- MELIFLUOS DESIGNED IN SPAIN Shawl Wrap Poncho
- Our Verdict!
- How To Choose The Best Lightweight Ponchos for Summer
- Can you wear a poncho in summer?
- How do you style a summer poncho?
- What are ponchos good for?
Top It Off Elsa Bamboo Poncho
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Lightweight and breathable, the Top It Off Elsa Bamboo Poncho is the perfect choice to kick off this list. No, we’re not talking about poncho fishing shirts. What’s here is a versatile and beautiful fashion item. This fancy poncho is available in a wide variety of vibrant colorways. From azure to magenta, you name it! However, my favorite is the marshmallow variant. As the name suggests, the color resembles marshmallows. But I think it’s cute and unlike black, it won’t trap the heat.
Furthermore, this poncho is made of 100% bamboo. This material is loved by many as it’s not only soft and breathable but also sustainable. With a fine gauge knit and a refined finish, this is no regular poncho. Also, its simple yet elegant design means it’s a versatile fashion item that can be easily dressed up or down. You don’t have to be a fashionista to look good in this poncho.
Pros
- The bamboo fabric is naturally hypoallergenic, making it a nice choice for women with sensitive skin.
- It’s a nice choice for eco-conscious women.
- This lightweight poncho comes in a wide variety of colorways.
Cons
- It can be a bit see-through in certain conditions.
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SHU-SHI Sheer Knit Poncho
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Want to show off your figure and stay cool during the summer? Take a look at SHU-SHI Sheer Knit Poncho. This is a sexy poncho that’ll turn everyone’s head. Lightweight and sheer, it’s a poncho that can easily complement all outfits. I was a bit shy when I first tried wearing it. But after a while, I was confident enough and didn’t regret wearing it. If you want to spice things up, wear this!
Apart from that, I love how practical it is. This poncho can be folded easily and won’t take up much space. Since it’s lightweight, I also think it’s great for travel. Also, it’s available in tons of different colors. Want to get more than one? Fret no, as the poncho is affordable. Give your outfit a pop of color with this cute poncho, and thank us later.
Pros
- It’s a simple but eye-catching design that’s highly breathable.
- The stretchy material fits most body types.
- As a versatile fashion item, you can also use it as a skirt.
Cons
- The fabric is fragile, so be careful.
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Futurino Bohemian Aztec Print Poncho
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The Futurino Bohemian Aztec Print Poncho is a stylish and versatile poncho that can be worn for a variety of occasions. Made of 100% acrylic, it’s extremely soft and has the right amount of thickness for warmer weather. As the name suggests, it also features a bohemian print in vibrant colors. However, I think the best one has to be the dark red variant.
Overall, I really like the design of this poncho. The open cape sleeves offer a comfy and loose fit. Plus, it has a flowy look, while the bohemian print adds a touch of personality. Also, this poncho comes with a hoodie! It’s a nice touch and provides decent protection from the UV rays when you’re out there.
Pros
- I’m a huge fan of the stylish bohemian print.
- With the addition of a hood, this poncho can protect your head from UV rays.
- It’s available in various prints.
Cons
- It can be a bit bulky.
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CLAUDIA NICHOLE by Alashan Cashmere Poncho
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Have a lot of money, honey? Then why not treat yourself and get the CLAUDIA NICHOLE by Alashan Cashmere Poncho? Stand out from the rest by wearing this luxurious poncho! As the name says, this poncho is made of 100% cashmere. Thus, don’t be surprised by how soft it is. In addition to that, it’s also lightweight and breathable. Feel free to layer this with whatever you want during summer nights.
Other ponchos may be available in plenty of different colors. However, this poncho takes things more seriously as it’s available in not 10 or 30, but 50 different shades to choose from. Wow! Whether you’re looking for something bold or more low-key, I’m sure you’ll find what you want. Though not the cheapest, it sure is one of the best.
Pros
- This poncho is designed to flatter all women regardless of their body shape.
- It can also be used as a scarf or a shawl.
- It goes well with anything you wear.
Cons
- You should note that this poncho isn’t machine washable.
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Moss Rose Travel Poncho
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Level up your fashion game this summer by wearing the Moss Rose Travel Poncho. This a relaxed poncho with a beautiful plaid print and fringed edges, offering you that classic look. When it comes to the material, this travel poncho is made of 84% polyester and 16% viscose. The fabric is skin-friendly and thin, making it a nice option for summer.
During testing, I was impressed by the design of this poncho. With an open-front design, it’s really easy to wear. Furthermore, this oversized poncho is versatile enough to be worn for different occasions. I’ve used it for work, dinner with friends, and even parties. And as the name suggests, it’s also a nice choice for travel as it’s lightweight and easy to wash. Check out what people have to say on its official website!
Pros
- The fabric of this poncho is soft and thin.
- Keeping it clean is a breeze as it’s machine washable.
- The fringed edges make the poncho more elegant.
Cons
- It may be too big for smaller women.
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PULI Poncho
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Thousands of people have bought PULI Poncho and showered it with positive reviews. I like it, and I’m sure you’ll feel the same. This stylish poncho is made of double-knit fabric. It’s sturdy, durable, and surprisingly lightweight. It’s also comfortable and breathable enough during those summer nights. But what I love the most about this poncho is the fact that it’s wrinkle-resistant.
The design of this poncho is also worth praising. The flattering crossover front is certainly a highlight. Plus, the curved hem makes this poncho look somehow more elegant. What’s more, it’s super versatile. Aside from being a poncho, you can wear it as a cape, scarf, or cardigan. No wonder many women adore it so much.
Pros
- This poncho offers premium features at a reasonable price tag.
- There’s a wide range of colors to choose from.
- You can wear it for various occasions.
Cons
- It may be too big for some people.
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Back From Bali Sheer Poncho
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Most Breathable. Inspired by the Balinese culture, Back From Bali Sheer Poncho is another highly recommended option that’s perfect for summer. This lightweight poncho is made from a blend of polyester, cotton, and acrylic. This material makes the poncho soft, comfortable, and drape. In addition to that, it also has a loose pullover design with an asymmetrical hem, giving it a flattering and feminine look.
Next, let’s talk about its versatility. I’ve worn this poncho so many times before, and it can be worn in many ways. Usually, I wear it as a lightweight shrug over one of my dresses. You can also mix it with your favorite jeans or shirts. As seen on its official product page, it’s available in a wide variety of different colors. It’s a great addition to any summer wardrobe.
Pros
- This lightweight and breathable poncho offers a flattering look.
- It’s extremely easy to care for.
- This is a versatile choice that’s available in many colors.
Cons
- Its see-through design may not be suitable for all occasions.
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Carolina Grace by Alashan Poncho
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Best Luxurious. The Carolina Grace by Alashan Poncho is more expensive than most of the options on this list. How come? Well, that’s because this poncho is made of a mix of cotton and cashmere. Yes, we’re talking about the cashmere that’s known for its luxurious feel. This makes the poncho extremely lightweight and also perfect for layering even though the weather is hot.
As someone who doesn’t like to complicate things, I appreciate how easy it is to take care of this luxurious poncho. It can be dry clean, hand wash, or even machine wash. And no matter how often you clean it, the color won’t fade, and the shape of the poncho will stay the same. Last but not least, it comes in a beautiful range of different shades, so there’s always an option for everyone. Learn more about this poncho here!
Pros
- It’s a premium option that gives you a premium feel.
- The durability of this poncho is second to none.
- It’s a versatile item that can be worn with most outfits.
Cons
- It may be too pricey for some.
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Urban CoCo Vintage Poncho
5
Up next is the Urban CoCo Vintage Poncho. This is the perfect choice to stay fashionable even when the temperature rises. The open-front design lets you layer this poncho over any outfit. I also love the addition of the tassels and hem that add a touch of flair. Also, since the fabric is cozy and thin, it’s highly breathable. No matter how hot the weather is, this poncho won’t make you feel even hotter.
Also worth mentioning is the poncho’s versatility. This oversized poncho is more than just a fashion item. It can also be used as a blanket for your picnic. You can wear this alongside your sweater in cold weather when summer is gone. Last but not least, this vintage and charming poncho is available in a variety of colors and designs.
Pros
- This poncho suits women of all sizes.
- The material is thin and highly breathable.
- You can easily pair it with any outfit you have in your closet.
Cons
- Since the fabric is thin, it could snag easily, so you have to be careful.
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Oshlen Summer Poncho
4
Best Lightweight. While there are so many fashionable and lightweight ponchos for summer on the market, the Oshlen Summer Poncho has to be one of my favorites. At only 0.61 lbs, it’s one of the most lightweight options available. In addition to that, around 50% of the fabric is viscose, which is widely loved because of its breathability. Now you know why I think it’s a nice poncho to wear during summer, right?
Apart from that, this poncho is available in one size only. As a one-size-fits-most, you don’t have to spend much time choosing the right size. I normally wear M, and this poncho fits me well. What’s more, it’s available in a wide array of color options. But for this summer, I recommend going for something less dark so you won’t feel as hot.
Pros
- A nice option for women looking for a soft and lightweight poncho to wear.
- It can be worn on many occasions.
- Despite the amazing features, this poncho is still reasonably priced.
Cons
- The neck opening is too small for women with bigger heads.
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Ferand Elegant Knitted Poncho Sweater
3
Best Poncho Sweater. There’s a plethora of lightweight ponchos available on the market right now, but the Ferand Elegant Knitted Poncho is probably the most unique. Aside from being a poncho, it’s also a sweater. This chic poncho sweater is the perfect way to add a touch of elegance and warmth to your summertime look. Wear this poncho, and all eyes will be on you! On top of that, it’s available in a wide array of colorways to choose from, so you’ll never run out of options.
“A mix of both poncho and sweater, this is truly a unique choice. It offers you the convnience of ponchos and the comfort of sweaters.”
WOW Travel
This 100% acrylic poncho is the dream companion for your outdoor adventures. When I first tried it on, I immediately noticed how lightweight and durable it was. This also means it’s a nice choice for traveling and other outdoor activities. It’s also highly breathable, making it a nice option for summer. Not to mention you can also use this poncho sweater for layering during the cooler seasons. Speaking of sweaters, have you read our list of the best-knitted sweaters for women?
Pros
- This poncho sweater is a versatile choice that goes well with most outfits.
- Though only available in one size, you don’t have to spend much time measuring the size.
- The fringed sides make the poncho more attractive.
Cons
- Unfortunately, this poncho is a bit too small for some women.
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Smallshow Poncho
2
What we have here is the Smallshow Poncho. This poncho is one of the most breathable options made of stretchy modal fabric. Even when the temperature doesn’t make sense, you’ll be able to stay comfy and fashionable with this poncho. Another thing that I like about this fabric is that it’s really soft and smooth to the touch. When I first touched it, it reminded me of silk and cashmere.
I normally wear this poncho over a tank top. However, you can also use it as a nursing top, as it allows women to breastfeed their kids easily. In addition to that, the floral print is nothing short of beautiful and prevents the poncho from being see-through. You can pair it with your favorite pair of jeans and summer vacation sneakers, and you’re good to go!
Pros
- It’s designed to fit pregnant women.
- The modal fabric is extremely lightweight and breathable.
- The floral design is great for feminine women.
Cons
- This may be too big for some women.
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MELIFLUOS DESIGNED IN SPAIN Shawl Wrap Poncho
1
Best Overall. Sitting on top of this list is none other than the MELIFLUPUS DESIGNED IN SPAIN Shawl Wrap Poncho. This poncho is so far my favorite, and it’s made from 100% premium bamboo viscose. It’s a luxurious fabric that’s soft, durable, and highly breathable, which is why it’s great for summer. In addition to that, it’s also free of cheap, low-quality polyester and acrylic offered by other cookie-cutter models.
Another thing that we love about this poncho is its reversible design. You can rock four different looks in total by just getting one poncho. Better yet, this design feature is consistent across all colors and prints. Not to mention, the open-front design means it can be mixed and matched with quite literally anything in your wardrobe. From ripped jeans to leather pants, this poncho goes well with anything.
Pros
- This beautiful poncho is available in dozens of different designs.
- It allows you to wear it in four different ways.
- The stitched edges are durable, and there are no loose threads.
Cons
- There’s only one size available, and it’s too big for some women.
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Our Verdict!
Considering its price tag, style, weight, and comfort, I think the MELIFLUOS DESIGNED IN SPAIN Shawl Wrap Poncho deserves the number one spot. However, the rest are also great, which is why I’ve categorized some of them based on the following criteria:
- Best Poncho Sweater: Ferand Elegant Knitted Poncho Sweater
- Best Lightweight: Oshlen Summer Poncho
- Best Luxurious: Carolina Grace by Alashan Poncho
- Most Breathable: Back From Bali Sheer Poncho
How To Choose The Best Lightweight Ponchos for Summer
Below are the things you should consider when choosing lightweight ponchos:
Fabric
With so many ponchos on the market, not all are suitable for summer. You’ll want a lightweight poncho made from breathable fabrics like linen, rayon, or cotton. Some of our favorite materials include bamboo, cashmere, and viscose. They’re highly breathable and won’t trap heat, which is important in hot weather.
Color
As you may already know, light-colored clothes, including ponchos, can reflect the sun’s rays better than darker ones. This means they absorb less heat and can keep you cooler during summer. This is why we recommend getting a light-colored poncho.
Style
There are so many different styles of ponchos available out there. Some popular choices include V-neck ponchos, ponchos with fringe trim, and ponchos that look like sweaters. You should choose the one that suits your body shape and taste!
Can you wear a poncho in summer?
Why not? For summer, you can opt for a lightweight, breathable poncho that doesn’t trap heat.
How do you style a summer poncho?
Honestly, it’s up to you. Ponchos are versatile and can be paired with a T-shirt, denim shorts, or even jeans. You can also add some summer accessories to spice things up.
What are ponchos good for?
As I said earlier, ponchos are a versatile piece of fashion item. Lightweight ponchos, in particular, can elevate your fashion game in the summer without adding bulk and trapping heat.
