Short-Sleeve Knit Tops Are Perfect for Early Fall, and H&M’s $30 Burgundy Design Ticks off Two Trends

The beginning of September is always a uniquely tricky period for style. Although our sundresses and sandals are on their way out and into our closets, stored until next year, safely stored away for next year, this week’s windy temperatures suggest it's little too early for cozy fall attire.Transitional dressing has been a hot topic here at Cosmo HQ, and thankfully, we’ve found the perfect solution. Warm enough to combat the breeze but airy enough to prevent overheating, short-sleeve knit tops are the ultimate middle ground.Moritz Scholz//Getty ImagesRaimonda Kulikauskiene//Getty ImagesAmong our top picks is H&M’s ultra-soft, infinitely versatile offering which nails two trends at once; burgundy is set to be a huge trend for FW26, with slews of rich wines, ox-bloods and deep cherry tones spotted across Zuhair Murad, Elie Saab and Max Mara runways. As an alternative to black—but just as wearable—this staple knit t-shirt deserves a place in any capsule wardrobe this season.This piece feels lightweight enough for everyday wear (compared to a chunkier knit) but offers a level of cold protection without demanding a jacket on top. Even better, it promises to pair effortlessly with any casual jeans-and-sneaker combo, but can equally be elevated with a sleek knee-high boot, if you’re feeling fancy.You really can’t go wrong with a piece like this in your closet right now.Sold? Scroll on to find six more of the chicest short-sleeve knit tops to shop now.Beauty Assistant Urmi works across Cosmopolitan, ELLE, Harper's Bazaar, Red and Prima. She fell into the world of beauty following a Masters in Magazine Journalism, and has been knee-deep in maximalist makeup, seasonal nail trends, and skincare myth-busting ever since. Both in and outside the office, she is best recognised by her signature red hair and elaborate set of acrylics.