BB Dakota Rose and Lace, $64; Simply Be Botanical Print, $60; Wet Seal Dotted Fringe, $29

Without a doubt, the key item of this summer is the kimono.  Not the traditional Japanese garment, but the flowy lightweight cardigan of the same name, so dubbed because of the similar open, flowing sleeves.

It is the perfect weekend piece – throw it over a tank and cutoffs for a festival-ready boho vibe, or layer it over a bodycon dress or a fitted crop top and pencil skirt to play with the proportions of an obviously sexy silhouette.  It works just as well with jeans as it does thrown over a bikini or a sleek maillot on the beach.  If you are going to buy one trendy piece this summer, this is it.

I just found my perfect kimono, but I know from experience the search is not an easy one, so I’ve done it for you.  After a LOT of time scouring the internet, here are my top picks for plus size kimonos, along with a few that will work for in betweenies and smaller plus sizes:

17 Sundays Atari Baby, $19; BooHoo Neon Floral, $24; Deb Monochrome Floral, $18

Eloquii Neon Beaded,$90; ASOS Curve Mixed Print Fringe, $123; Anna Scholz Vintage Rose, $60

West Kei Mixed Print Fringe, $78; Image Mint Floral, $20; City Chic Forest Print, $78

H&M+ Embroidered, $35; G Stage Crochet Trim, $21; AX Paris Cream Floral Fringe, $50

ASOS Sheer Long Fringe, $85; Target Crochet Fringe, $12; Forever 21 Embroidered Fringe, $30

The last three are all in straight sizes, but due to the open, flowy nature of the kimono cardi, there is more room for experimenting with sizing.  Don’t be afraid to just try it on if you see one you like in stores.

Have you tried this summer trend?  Which of my kimono picks is your favorite?  Fringe or no fringe?  Let me know below – I love hearing from you!