A little sparkle for fall – Introducing Rowan Alpaca Sparkle

Sparkle is having a moment this season. 

Designers everywhere are embracing this “modern glow” in fresh, unexpected ways. Dolce & Gabbana embroidered rhinstone brooches onto black jeans, for a certain over-the top look.  Others, including Chanel, are opting for the subtler look that's much more my speed.  In this context, sparkle becomes more more wearable, elegant, and quietly luxurious. And like most things, it's made its way from runways, to ready-to-wear, to the yarn shop

If you tend to just dismiss sparkle out of hand, I encourage you to take another look this season.  What we're seeing is much more understated and refined.  This is a sparkle that whispers as catches the light and is equally at home in daytime and evening wear.

Think Brunello Cucinelli style: soft neutrals, subtle shimmer, and that easy sophistication you can live in. That's exactly what Rowan Alpaca Sparkle delivers -- soft, light, and effortlessly chic.

Rowan Alpaca Sparkle is a beautiful blend of alpaca, wool, and a fine strand of tiny clear sequins that add just the right amount of glimmer. The yarn has a gentle crimp that gives the finished fabric texture and movement - enough to make plain stockinette come alive, but not so much as to obscure lace.  It’s cozy but and soft and a little bulky without being heavy. 

The palette is low key, with elegant neutrals and a delicate pink.  These are colors that slip easily into your wardrobe and flatter every skin tone.  They're timeless and sophisticated colors that don't call attention to themselves.

Alpaca Sparkle shines in both simple and intricate designs. In fact, I think it's perfect for lace patterns that showcase its texture. Most of the designs for Alpaca Sparkle are have some form of openwork and are knit on larger needles.  It's a quick knit that doesn't feel heavy or bulky at all.

Lisa Richardson designed an entire collection of garments and accessories for this yarn, and I’ve pulled my favorites and put them together into kits you'll love. Let's have a look at what I think are the stand out designs. 

• Dors Vest Kit — light and airy with modern lines. Wear it alone as a statement piece or layer it over a blouse for effortless sophistication.
• Paget Sweater Kit — a fresh, contemporary openwork design that glimmers softly under the light. Elegant enough for evening, easy enough for every day.
• Ruby Scarf Kit — An elegant accessory. The repeating lace motif shows off Alpaca Sparkle’s drape and gentle sheen.
• Charisse Cardigan Kit — refined lace paired with a relaxed silhouette. This is the piece you’ll reach for again and again.
• Monroe - I didn't kit this up because it's just one ball, but a perfect way to dip your toe into the look.  

Each kit highlights how Alpaca Sparkle turns simple stitches into something special — adding just a touch of magic to your handmade wardrobe.

Try pairing it with smooth matte yarn like Alpaca Soft DK. You could carry them together, but try using the sparkle as an accent or stripe.  Even a hint of shimmer at the collar, cuff, or hem can elevate an otherwise simple piece.

In this week’s YouTube video, I’ll be swatching Alpaca Sparkle at a variety of gauges to show how it behaves — from soft and drapey to firm and textured. You’ll see how versatile it really is. 

In this week’s YouTube video, I’ll be swatching Alpaca Sparkle at a variety of gauges to show how it behaves — from soft and drapey to firm and textured. You’ll see how versatile it really is. I'll also go over the entire collection so you can see all the designs. 

Rowan Alpaca Sparkle brings runway-level elegance into real life with soft, feather-light, quiet confidence. Whatever you decide to make with Alpaca Sparkle, you’ll find yourself smiling every time it catches the light.

A little sparkle really is good for the soul...and for your wardrobe.

Shop the full Alpaca Sparkle Collection