I designed this piece in 2010 for Skacel using their then new Simplicity DK yarn. Leggings were new on the fashion scene, and this seemed like a great way to combine two trends–capelets and a skirt to wear over leggings. Click here for a couple more views.
As a general rule I’m not a big fan of convertible pieces because it often means they don’t work that well as either, but I think this one works–and during the photoshoot, they found a third way it works–as a cowl.
If you travel this might be just the thing to use as a lightweight cardigan substitute, which can be pulled into a cowl if the temperature changes or if a jacket becomes necessary. Wear it over a simple dress for another look, drop it to your waist or hips to wear over leggings/jeggings or skinny jeans. I love pieces like this for traveling: I wear them on the plane to combat air conditioning and use them for versatility and to add looks to few pieces as the trip progresses.
This is a fairly easy piece to knit. Done in the round it starts with an eyelet rib, then goes into a drop stitch which makes an open, but not see-through fabric. There are some decrease rounds to bring the shape in nicely to the waist/neckline, and the whole piece is finished off with more of the eyelet rib. An i-cord tie pulls it together. You could change this piece even further by buying ribbons or cords to substitute for the i-cord.
The Simplicity yarn is washable and very soft. Although is has some acrylic which I don’t usually like, this yarn is soft and the merino gives it the body and bounce we love in wool yarns.
I got a query about this pattern from someone who was planning to make it as a nursing shawl, so there’s another use for it!
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